I first did the 52 Hike Challenge 4 years ago, so I knew it was the catalyst I needed to help me get into shape and overcome my back injury. While I was used to hiking 5+ miles at a time, I was barely able to walk a mile. When my friends planned a memorial backpacking trip for our friend, who we lost in 2024, I knew I needed to start with easy 1 mile walks. By August, I worked my way up to carrying a 40 lb. pack 1100 ft. for 5 1/2 miles in the Sierra. I have so many fond memories, and it was a truly healing experience. I also chose the Adventure Challenge to make it more interesting and found it pushed me to not only get out and hike, but also adding the various elements made it fun. While some of the elements were easier to achieve, like oceans and lakes, others were more difficult, like introducing a friend to hiking and a bucket list hike. I am now feeling stronger physically and emotionally, and looking forward to continuing this hiking journey.

Becky B.

After years of intense financial and emotional stress, and spending every ounce of effort and mental space that I was able to give on others... I had forgotten who I was and started 2025 in a deep depression. I knew that I loved hiking, but I had stopped for many years, and let my fitness level crumble. I decided to do the 52 Hike Challenge as a way to reset my mental health and give me a chance to find myself again. The motivation was hard at first, but I was determined to get 'me' back. Through struggling with elevation, and sore feet from mileage, every step felt like pure joy. I started smiling more. I instantly got excited and felt lighter when on trail. I started to discover that I was able to push myself harder than I imagined. I may not have done the longest trails, or climbed the most elevation, but I felt happy 52 different times. I breathed fresh air 52 different times. Ultimately, I lived my true self... 52 times this year. I leave this 2025 challenge feeling overwhelmed with pride and ready for my next adventure. I found me again.

Kaitlyn F.