Denver Photographer


Hitting the Trail with WILD


Inclusion, Nature & Connection


Earlier this summer, I had the honor of joining WILD for a community hike at the Big Easy Trailhead on  Clear Creek trail in Golden, CO. WILD is a Littleton based nonprofit whose mission is to ensure that people with disabilities and their families feel welcomed, included, and empowered in the outdoors.


This isn't our first rodeo - read about WILDs inaugural hike here and their June BBQ here.

 

Young boy sitting in adaptive stroller with talking device on dirt path.
Two participants of an inclusive hike at Clear Creek Trail in Golden, Colorado.
Hikers joining under covered picnic area off of Big Easy Trailhead in Golden, Colorado.

Clear Creek Canyon's Big Easy Trailhead is a Gem


If you’ve never been to the Big Easy Trailhead, this is your sign to go. The path is fully paved, which makes it ideal for wheelchairs, strollers, and little feet alike. You still get all the beauty of a classic Colorado trail — soaring pines, dramatic cliffs, and the peaceful sound of Clear Creek — with none of the obstacles that can make outdoor adventures inaccessible.  There was ample parking, even on a Sunday morning, which isn't always the case for Colorado trailheads.


One of my favorite moments? Stumbling upon a plant filled with aphids and the entire life cycle of lady bugs.  

Group hike at Clear Creek Trail, paved path, railing to the right of hikers, river down below, with open blue skies.
Aphids and lady bug larvae, pupae and adult lady bugs on plant in Golden, Colorado.

What You Can Expect at a WILD Event


Each WILD gathering brings a mix of learning, adventure, and community. On this hike, we started with a fun (and important!) nature lesson about native flowers — including a quick talk on the beautiful but toxic Larkspur.


After that, it was time to explore. Families strolled, rolled, and laughed their way down the trail. There was space to go at your own pace, check out some wildflowers, and do a little birding.


And yes — there were snacks. Always snacks.

Mother taking picture of adult son standing on bridge, son giving a thumbs up to her cell phone camera on group hike.
Posed group photo of WILD's hiking participants at Clear Creek Trail, standing on paved path, large evergreens in background.
Pacey, cofounder of WILD, teaching about Larkspur and other native plants found off the Clear Creek Trail.

Why Inclusion Matters in My Work as a Photographer

As a Denver family photographer, I’m committed to capturing people of all abilities with dignity and authenticity.


Everyone deserves to see themselves in joyful, artful photographs — especially in spaces where they’ve historically been left out.

Young boy sitting at a picnic table wearing a shirt that reads,
Several adults standing on a bridge overlooking Clear Creek River.

And to anyone looking for a photographer who sees you, just as you are — I’d be honored to work with you.


Let’s keep making the outdoors, and the art that comes from it, a space for everyone. 💛

Group of hikers during WILD's hiking event.
Mother and son walking hand in hand on Clear Creek Trail in Golden, Colorado.

 

Looking for an inclusive family photographer in Littleton // Denver Metro?

 

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