As a woman, hitting the trails alone isn’t always the best idea for safety reasons. Plus, hiking with a group is more fun and a great way to meet people with similar interests.
Whether you have a significant other who hates to hike, you’re new in town, or all your friends are busy when you get the urge to get out, Girls Who Hike Tennessee can connect you with other like-minded ladies. The statewide group communicates and announces events through its private Facebook page, which has more than 8,000 members.
While you may see casual posts from women looking for hiking buddies to join them on the trail, the group’s official events are organized by its regional ambassadors. Valerie Radu, lead ambassador of the Southeast region, volunteers to plan two events a month and also serves as a “cheerleader,” she says.
Events often involve more than just a hike, says Radu. A recent event she organized featured a hike on Little Cedar Mountain followed by wine and pizza at nearby Lookout Winery. A professional therapist, Radu has also led mental health-focused hikes, as well as urban hikes in downtown Chattanooga and weekend camping trips.
An all-female group is a huge benefit for many women, especially those who are new to outdoor experiences who may feel intimidated or overwhelmed in a co-ed group, as well as trauma survivors who feel supported and validated in an all-female group.