Women Who Hike

By Heather Balogh Rochfort

Crack open this book, and it's like inhaling a breath of fresh air. Each chapter introduces a remarkable outdoorswoman, their tales woven with personal stories and cherished hikes, making it a perfect ode to the glory of hiking.

As a reader, you quickly learn a bit about each woman and their heartbeat.

Take Ambreen Tariq, founder of @BrownPeopleCamping. A South-Asian woman raised in Minnesota, her family took numerous camping trips throughout her childhood. Tariq noticed from an early age how few brown people were in the woods. The outdoors became her sanctuary, an escape from the world of being different at school and home. Taking her love for the outdoors into adulthood, Tariq uses social media to educate others, bringing more ethnicity to the outdoors adventure. Her favorite trail featured in “Women Who Hike” is the Western Ride Trail in D.C. In the book, detailed directions for the hike along with insider tips give you, the reader, a chance to come along.

The stories unfold with insights into the journeys of 20 exceptional women. Kalen Thorien, a seasoned athlete featured in prestigious publications, shares her escapades, like the Grand Sawtooth Loop Trail, now a must-do on my hiking list. Thorien's initial solo backpacking misadventures, recounted with humor, offer valuable insights for those venturing alone. The authors impart hiking wisdom, from solo hiking backpacking tips to trail descriptions and history.

Each chapter weaves the woman's narrative into their hiking journey, featuring favorite trails with detailed directions and insider tips. With stunning photos accompanying the descriptions, you'll be eager to hit every trail after reading these captivating stories.

For a reader enamored with both literature and the outdoors, the healing power of nature is a draw. "Women Who Hike" introduces dreamers and doers, each inspiring with their unique connection to the wilderness.

Indulge yourself, grab the book, and let the inspiration flow! Bookmark a few trails, and let the adventure begin on those captivating paths!

I give this book a 10/10!