Hiking for all Bodies: Your Journey to Safe, Joyful Hiking
A Digital 6 Week Course


​Format: Online via Zoom
​Duration: 6 Weeks (Tuesdays, January 21 – February 25)
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Hosts: Andrea DiMaio and Brittany Francis
​
​ Each class will be recorded and a link to view the recording will be sent out each week.
Are you ready to embark on a journey that connects you with nature and celebrates your body exactly as it is? Hiking for All Bodies is a six-week online course designed to empower hikers of all sizes, abilities, and experience levels to hit the trails with confidence.

Through engaging and interactive sessions, this course offers everything you need to start your hiking journey confidently. Learn how to choose the right gear, prioritize safety, plan your hikes, and practice mindfulness on the trail. Whether you're a complete beginner, exploring solo hiking for the first time, or seeking to deepen your connection with nature, this course provides the tools, guidance, and knowledge to embrace outdoor adventures at your own pace while celebrating your body as it is.

What You'll Learn in 6 Weeks

  • Week 1: Welcome to Hiking 101 – Dive into the benefits of hiking for physical, mental, and emotional well-being while embracing body positivity.
  • Week 2: Essential Gear for Every Body – Discover the best hiking clothing and gear tailored to your needs, focusing on comfort, safety, and accessibility.
  • Week 3: Planning and Navigation – Learn how to research trails, read maps, and plan hikes that match your goals and abilities.
  • Week 4: Hiking Safety and Trail Etiquette – Get tips on staying safe, preparing for emergencies, learning about the 10 Essentials of hiking, and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
  • Week 5: Mindfulness and Joy in Hiking – Explore techniques for grounding, gratitude, and finding mindfulness on the trail.
  • Week 6: Putting It All Together – Combine your skills to create a personalized hiking plan and confidently set out on your next adventure.

This Course is for You if 

  • You’re New to Hiking: Whether you’re starting from scratch or need guidance, this course will help you confidently take your first steps on the trail.
  • You’ve Felt Excluded Outdoors: If traditional outdoor spaces haven’t felt welcoming due to your body type, fitness level, or experience, we’re here to change that.
  • You Want a Supportive Community: Join a non-judgmental group of like-minded individuals who are eager to learn, grow, and celebrate every step of the journey.
  • You’re Ready for Solo Hiking: Gain the skills and confidence to plan and enjoy safe, solo hiking adventures.
  • You Struggle with Gear and Comfort: Discover how to find hiking clothing and equipment that fits well, feels good, and supports your unique needs.
  • You Need Adaptive Hiking Solutions: Learn tips and strategies for hiking with mobility challenges, chronic illness, or other health conditions.

What to Expect from this Course

Inclusivity First

Designed with all bodies in mind, our course celebrates diversity in size, ability, and experience, breaking down barriers to outdoor recreation.

Practical Tools

From gear guides to safety checklists, you'll leave each session with tangible resources to support your hiking journey.

Community Focus

Join a supportive group of like-minded individuals who share your passion for body liberation and outdoor adventure.
Expect empowerment at every step. With expert guidance, you'll gain the skills and confidence to enjoy hiking on your own terms—no judgment, no rush.
​

Course Features

Live and Interactive sessions

Engage in Q&A, group discussions, and hands-on activities like gear checks and trail planning.

Downloadable Resources

Keep your learning on track with worksheets, checklists, and presentations.

Follow-up Support

Receive a curated resource guide, including accessible trail recommendations and gear discounts.
✨You'll also receive a certificate of completion. Celebrate your achievements with a personalized certificate at the end of the course.✨

Your Instructors for Hiking For All Bodies
​

​Brittany Francis (she/her)
Brittany is the founder of Ample Access Outdoors. Ample Access Outdoors is an outdoor recreation organization dedicated to making nature accessible and enjoyable for all. Ample Access Outdoors offers guided outdoor recreational activities, community-based services, and curricula that provide solutions to combat limited accessibility. The goal is to break down societal barriers and foster a love of nature within a diverse community, focusing on inclusivity, adaptability, and safety.

​
Andrea DiMaio (she/they)
Andrea is a fat, queer hiker, backpacker, traveler, cyclist, camper, yoga teacher, and speaker. She teaches accessible yoga classes, leads inclusive hikes and other outdoor adventures in western New York with Ample Movement. In 2019 Andrea climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania with the Curvy Kili Crew which led to being employed by adventure travel company, Whoa Travel and leading group trips for Whoa Plus. Andrea is certified in Wilderness First Aid.

Andrea offers accessible yoga classes in western NY and online. Her passion is for sharing joyful movement and community through outdoor activities and yoga, with an emphasis on making space for fat people who aren’t used to seeing themselves represented in those spaces.

Ready to Join?

Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back—this course is for YOU. Whether you’re dreaming of your first trail walk or looking to rediscover the joy of nature, Hiking for All Bodies will guide you every step of the way.

Pilot Program Pricing

Paying at the highest rate you are able, allows us to offer more courses like this to the community.

Discounted Rate

discounted  $99 ($16.50 per class)

Standard Rate

pays for you $149 ($25 per class)

Supporter Rate

pays for you and supports the work we are doing  $199 ($33.17 per class)
✨We are committed to economic accessibility. If you need scholarship support to attend this course or if you need to make a payment, plan, please reach✨ out via email below.
There will be no refunds after purchase


Contact Brittany Francis with Ample Access Outdoors
​Email: [email protected]
Contact Andrea DiMaio with Ample Movement
Email: [email protected]
Proudly powered by Weebly