Finding Faith, Fresh Air and Friendship on Florida’s Trails
When I moved to Orlando, I knew I’d miss the energy of my previous home in New York City. But more than that, I found myself searching for something deeper: community. Not just people to spend time with—but real connection, shared values, and a sense of belonging. That search is what led to the creation of Outdoorsy Muslims.
As a Muslim and an outdoor enthusiast, I often felt a disconnect between my love for nature and finding spaces where I could show up fully… faith, identity, and all. I realized that if I was looking for that kind of space, others probably were too. So I started a small group, hoping to connect with a few like-minded people who wanted to hike, bike, explore, and simply exist outside the usual social spaces.
What happened next exceeded anything I could have imagined.
In a short amount of time, Outdoorsy Muslims grew into a vibrant community spanning Central Florida, people who love the outdoors, care about the environment, and genuinely want to connect through faith and adventure. The energy, the turnout, the conversations- it was everything I had hoped for and more.
Somewhere between the bike paths and hiking trails, I realized this wasn’t just about outdoor activities. It was about healing. It was about reclaiming the outdoors as a space where Muslims- and anyone who shares a love for nature- can feel safe, seen, and inspired.
I’ve watched people step out of their comfort zones, discover new passions, and find a sense of belonging they didn’t even know they were missing. That’s the power of community. And honestly, that’s the power of nature.
Moments like these remind me of what’s possible when people come together with intention- how meaningful, magnetic, and unexpectedly transformative community can be.
Orlando and its surrounding areas are filled with incredible natural beauty, and Outdoorsy Muslims is just getting started. We’re hiking trails, kayaking through springs, and most importantly, creating space- space for faith, for joy, and for each other.
Here’s my take: nature is for everyone. And when we build inclusive, intentional communities around it, we don’t just explore the outdoors- we thrive in it.
If you’re in Central Florida and looking for your people, I think you might have just found them.