As the year draws to a close, People. Nature. Big Ideas. revisits three remarkable efforts—and one defining issue—that embody our mission at Trust for Public Land to connect everyone to the outdoors and reveal the deeper ties between land, community, and purpose.

Trust for Public Land
Connecting everyone to the outdoors™
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We’re living in what some call the golden era of outdoor recreation. Participation is high and outdoor spaces are being recognized; not just as places to visit and play, but as critical infrastructure for our health, our economy, and our democracy.

But this golden era is under threat.

There are real efforts underway to sell off public lands, gut conservation funding, and roll back programs that center equity and climate resilience. If we care about the outdoors—who it belongs to, who it serves—this may be one of the most pivotal moments in our history.

This episode is about that moment. We’ll explore how outdoor recreation is powering jobs, especially in rural communities, shaping identity, and why protecting public access to the outdoors is a national priority.

Trust for Public Land
Connecting everyone to the outdoors™
tpl.org | Instagram | Facebook
...

Are you crushing hard on a neighborhood park? Maybe one with rolling hills and super tall trees that sway gently in the summer breeze? Or maybe you’ve got a second crush, too—another park with waterfalls and vistas that just won’t quit? Well, you're not alone!

On this month’s episode, Ronda takes to the Denver parks to discover the secret (and not-so-secret) “park crushes” local residents have on their favorite outdoor spaces.

And then, Bianca Clarke—Associate Vice President of TPL’s 10-Minute Walk Program & Parks Initiative—shares some takeaways from ParkScore 2025.

Trust for Public Land
Connecting everyone to the outdoors™
tpl.org | Instagram | Facebook
...