Hiking makes me feel more:

Empowered

Inspired

Energized

Free

Grounded

Strong yet know I am but a speck in this great big world.

Knowing I can find my inner strength and complete an extremely difficult hike, like Mt Whitney, reaffirms that I am strong and can get through the hard times if I just focus and take action.

Hiking…

fills me with awe and curiosity,

allows me to escape the noise and stress of every day life,

Helps me free my mind and feeds my soul.

I can usually sort out my problems and come up with solutions to dilemmas, or realize how small a ‘problem ‘ is in the big scheme of things.

I have met great friends and had many deep conversations I would not have had in the usual social setting.

My hiking buddies have become like trail family for me.

They call/text/contact me with concern when they don’t see me or hear from me.

I find much joy in leading others on hikes, sharing my passion for the outdoors as well as my limited knowledge about plants, animals and the sport of hiking/backpacking.

– Laura Skorich

This article is part of our #hikeOctober campaign to shed light on the stigma of mental illness and to promote the benefits of hiking. 100% of the funds raised from this campaign will be dedicated to alleviating the suffering of mental illness and to wilderness trail conservancy. If you would like to learn more or add you voice to our I #hikeOctober… series, please contact us.