Championing Accessible Outdoor Recreation at WGA 2025
On June 23–24, 2025, Santa Fe, New Mexico, hosted the Western Governors’ Association Annual Meeting—an event uniting seven Western governors and five U.S. Cabinet Secretaries in bipartisan discussions on key regional priorities ranging from forest management and housing to recreation and tourism on public lands.
We at GO Unlimited (New Mexico), National Ability Center (Utah), and Colorado State Parks were deeply honored to join a dedicated panel on expanding accessible outdoor recreation—representing millions of disabled outdoor enthusiasts across the West. It was a privilege to share how adaptive equipment, inclusive design, and cross-sector collaboration are unlocking new opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
GO Unlimited, rooted in New Mexico, highlighted trail modifications and specialized programs that enable residents with disabilities to enjoy the state’s diverse landscapes. Our message resonated with state leaders who recognized that accessible recreation isn’t a luxury—it’s a shared value that enhances quality of life for all.
National Ability Center shared success stories from Utah, where partnerships with school districts and local governments have created curriculum-integrated outdoor experiences for youth with disabilities, helping develop physical skills and confidence.
Colorado State Parks illustrated how universal-design upgrades—from accessible campsites to tactile interpretive trails—have broadened park access, resulting in wider community engagement and stronger tourism numbers.
Our collective presentation underscored how collaboration amplifies impact—layering expertise from non‑profits, state agencies, advocates, and policymakers. We heard strong interest from governors and their teams in forging regional frameworks to secure federal funding for inclusive programming.
Looking ahead, our conversation set the stage for concrete action plans: multi-state grant proposals, pilot demonstration sites, and shared best-practice forums. Together with governors and cabinet members, we committed to accelerating equitable access to the outdoors for all abilities—empowering millions to explore, learn, and thrive in our western landscapes.
Being part of this crucial dialogue alongside esteemed governors and national leaders was an honor, reaffirming our belief: when we work together across sectors and states, accessible outdoor recreation becomes not just possible—but celebrated.
