Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by Mrunal & Jiten
One of the hardest parts about moving to Washington state was the fact that my husband and I had no roots here. Zip, zero, nada. My side of the family inconveniently resides on the East Coast, mostly in Florida, and our closest relatives on my husband’s side are cousins who settled in California. Needless to say, we were in desperate need of friends. It took us a while to find our people, and I think that joining a hiking club could have expedited the roots-growing process. Whether you’re fresh in town or looking for a new group of friends, here’s why you should join a hiking club this year.
If you’ve ever felt the pull of a winding trail through pines or a muddy path just begging for footprints, this is a good reason why you should join a hiking club, as it could just shake up your life. There’s no doubt about it, being outdoors has so many benefits, both mental and physical, but I’ve found that staying outdoors only seems to deepen my love for the crackle of leaves underfoot and peaceful views of waterfalls.
When done safely, hiking solo is a perfectly valid way to unwind from a stressful day. That said, joining a hiking club can broaden your horizons in a few ways. Seasoned clubs know trails you’d never find solo, unless you’re starring in your own lost hiker true crime podcast. Then, there’s a certain level of accountability. It’s so much easier to get off that couch when you know someone is out there expecting you, which means that you’ll reap the physical benefits of regular exercise and the mental benefits of community.
Speaking of community, that’s one of my favorite parts about joining a hiking club. More heads are better than one. Whether it’s the guy who knows every knot in the universe or the gal who can identify any bird in the sky, you’re bound to pick up something you didn’t know before. Never learned how to read a map the old-fashioned way? No problem. Someone in your new hiking club should know that. Some clubs even offer workshops if you’re lucky.
Your new hiking club will also be aware of what gear works best for your area. For Seattle, we quickly found out that waterproof shoes and windbreakers go a long way, but narrowing down brands was overwhelming, even with online searches and reviews. With a hiking club, you’ve now got a go-to team of seasoned gear reviewers who can help keep you from making a bad decision.
There’s also safety in numbers. If you’re hiking in bear country, these majestic animals will often avoid trails if they can hear you coming. More people mean more noise, so they’ll be able to clear the area long before you make an appearance. When you hike solo, the chances of you coming across a bear or other dangerous animal increases, and the last thing you want to do is surprise one. Do yourself a favor and join a hiking club.
I love hiking clubs, but it can take some time to find the right one for you. When choosing a club to join, be careful to select one that matches your speed and experience level. Some clubs tend to be speed demons and race up the trails, while others like to smell the daisies along the way. Are they already a mile ahead when all you want to do is linger at a vista? That could be a sign that this club isn’t for you.
Another factor that could sway your decision is the good old vibe check. This is that “X” factor that gives you a sense of belonging when you’re out there on the trail. Figuring out if their energy matches yours is actually easier than you’d think. I’d start by lurking online. Most clubs have an online footprint like a website or a forum. Do they crack hokes or post about hardcore summit stats? That’s your first clue. A group obsessed with 4 a.m. starts and elevation gains might not be your cup of tea if you’re more about a peaceful stroll.
Next, do a meet-and-greet or a low-stakes hike. Clubs are often super friendly to newbies, so show up and say hi. There’s no need to commit after one hike. But while you’re there, ask the members why they love the club, and their answers can vary. “We’re like family” can signal tight bonds, while “the views” might mean they’re scenery chasers. Listen to what lights them up like a firefly, and you’ll see where their hearts are at.
There are also a few rules that may or may not be in place. Most hiking groups will give you details about what to expect when you inquire. “Leave No Trace” principles often top the list, which means you’ll need to pack your trash out and leave nature undisturbed. Head counts are also popular, and some clubs may have a “no straggler” policy. Some clubs may even ask for a fee.
Wherever you end up, hiking clubs are great. When you join one, your weekends will go from doomscrolling to dodging roots. I’d take staring at the void of a 3,000-foot drop over screen glare any day, but it can take some time to find the right folks to do it all with. Don’t be afraid to try a few different clubs before you settle on your people.
Applications are officially open after the announcement last month that Margaritaville at Sea has launched Cruise Tails, its first-ever dog-friendly voyage.
This one-of-a-kind experience will welcome 250 lucky dogs (and their humans) aboard for an adventure at sea. After submitting an application, the Cruise Tails team will carefully select which furry friends will set sail, making this an exclusive opportunity for pet owners.
Applying for Cruise Tales
Mount Rainier National Park is about to undergo two exciting construction projects in the coming year. Efforts and resources will be focused on the Ohanapecosh Campground and State Route 123. While these upgrades may be temporarily disruptive to 2025 visitors, these enhancements are long overdue and promise to make your upcoming experiences far more enjoyable. Here are the details.
Construction projects coming to Mount Rainier National Park
Ohanapecosh Campground to see major makeover
Ohanapecosh Campground is in the southeast corner of the park, and it’s in desperate need of some TLC. Partly funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), this project aims to modernize the facility and improve accessibility. This is what it will include:
Uber is set to transform travel in Cape Town, South Africa, by launching a unique wildlife experience called Uber Safari, available exclusively through the Uber app from October 1 to February 1. As a part of its ‘Go Anywhere’ series and in collaboration with Aquila Private Game Reserve, this limited-edition offering promises travelers an effortless and affordable way to explore one of Africa’s most iconic adventures. Riders can book their safari directly through the app, making a seamless transition from city life to the wild.
The day begins with a pickup in a specially branded Uber Safari vehicle, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the journey out of the bustling city. Upon arrival at Aquila, participants will be greeted with a welcome toast and lunch. After dining, guests will board a traditional safari vehicle, accompanied by experienced game rangers and field guides. This knowledgeable team will enhance the safari experience, offering unique insights into the animals and landscapes. Post-safari, guests can explore Aquila’s stunning grounds before the ride back to Cape Town.
How to book Uber Safari
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