Muslim Women Find Community and Nature Therapy through outdoor adventures in Minnesota

On a frigid January morning, with temperatures plunging to -18°C, Makiya Amin experienced the thrill of snow tubing for the first time, gliding down icy slopes and navigating jumps at a Minnesota park. For Makiya, being outdoors provides much-needed “nature therapy” to combat severe seasonal depression. “I’ve always had an adventurous spirit,” she said. “As an extrovert, being confined indoors feels unbearable.”

Her adventure was part of the Amanah Rec Project, an initiative born from a simple idea by Nasrieen Habib three years ago. Nasrieen had proposed forming a hiking group, which began with just nine women and has since grown to a community of over 700 members.

The project aims to encourage Muslim women, many of whom come from warmer climates, to embrace outdoor activities even in Minnesota’s harsh winters. Nasrieen, the founder of Hiking Hijabie, explained, “Winter is one of the hardest seasons to motivate our community to explore the outdoors, especially for those of African descent adjusting to the cold.”

Participants not only enjoy physical activities but also find a supportive environment where modesty and sisterhood are celebrated. The group organizes weekly outings, extended trips, and educational sessions on topics such as dressing appropriately for cold weather, health, and environmental sustainability—all presented through an Islamic perspective.

For women like Makiya, the initiative has opened doors to adventures that once seemed out of reach. “I’ve always wanted to be outdoorsy but didn’t have the right opportunities or friends to share those experiences with. Being surrounded by like-minded women makes it so much easier,” she said.

The group also addresses the unique challenges faced by Muslim women wearing hijabs, a visible symbol of faith that can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or exclusion. By fostering a family-oriented and inclusive community, the Amanah Rec Project ensures that its members feel empowered to connect with nature while staying true to their beliefs.

Whether it’s hiking, snow tubing, or learning about sustainability, the project has become a beacon for Muslim women seeking adventure, community, and connection with the outdoors.