ABOUT US

THE HISTORY BEHIND 52 HIKE CHALLENGE

The 52 Hike Challenge has become a global movement, but it started out in 2014 as a life-changing personal hiking challenge. It changed my life, and I couldn’t imagine the simple concept of hiking every week for one year would be so meaningful to so many others as well! Whether it be on mountain trails, local parks, or along the beach, I encourage you to experience all the adventures the challenge can take you on. The physical and emotional benefits will follow.

My goal is to use this website as a resource to raise funds and spread the word about the 52 Hike Challenge to help even more lives each year. - Karla Amador, Founder

MEET KARLA

While going through a dark and emotional time in her life (divorce), fate stepped, when she met Phillip, a mountaineer who had lost over 80lbs through hiking. Karla was inspired to get out and hike... while outdoors she noticed that she was starting to feel better inside.  

In January 2014, Karla came up with her New Year's resolution, to hike at least once per week, and that is how the 52 Hike Challenge was born. She and her new hiking companion, completed the challenge in 8.5 months, hiking and climbing some amazing places and mountains - including the tallest volcano in El Salvador and Mt. Whitney, the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states.  Hiking changed something in her. It cured her from her pain; it made her more connected to what is truly important and made her feel alive. The Hike Challenge literally changed Karla's life, one step at a time. 

After her 52 Hikes were complete, they both decided to share their hiking secret with the world. The idea started with writing a book about the healing found in nature, but then they decided things could only get better if they invited others to do their own 52 Hike Challenge. 

The rest is history, the challenge has gone on to help almost 100k people to get outdoors, created almost 1 million moments outside, and has been featured in national press.  In addition to being a sponsored mission by some of the biggest outdoor brands and partners in the nation. 

"I have committed to hiking 52 times a year, for as long as I can and welcome you to join this life-changing journey." - Karla Amador