When it comes to nature, the idea of “pristine, untouched wilderness” is part of the American ethos. But the reality is most land was touched, valued and used -- by indigenous landholders. Recreating outside today means using that land in new ways. Yet honoring the past not only doesn’t have to be complicated, it can also broaden our appreciation for the land and what it gives us by connecting us with those who called it home for centuries before we arrived. In this episode Aaron Leggett, president of the Native Village of Eklunta near Anchorage, Alaska and senior curator of Alaska History and Indigenous Culture at the Anchorage Museum shares with us his perspective on use of traditional Dena'ina lands and how outdoor lovers today can respect and honor the past. Connect with this episode: Learn about the Native Village of Eklutna Read about Aaron Leggett’s work at the Anchorage Museum Join the Humans Outside Challenge Follow Humans Outside on Instagram Follow Humans Outside on Facebook Some of the good stuff: [3:03] Aaron Leggett’s favorite outdoor space [5:15] About the Native Village of Eklutna [7:39] About growing up in Anchorage and getting passionate about Native history [11:13] Who are the Dena'ina and what is their land? [13:46] What is a Native Corporation? [21:12] How to tell where Native land is and isn’t [24:50] What the Native place name project is and why it matters [34:00] What are the best practices for using traditional indigenous lands for recreation? [35:50] What “leave no trace” has to do with it [39:30] How to give back to a space while using it [41:00] What just having it in mind does [48:41] Aaron’s favorite outdoor memory