Greetings! I'm a proud mama to an adventurous toddler and pup named Torch, military spouse to an incredible human, and long distance runner. My family is new to Virginia, we have traveled from coast to coast and have seen so much! From Joshua Tree to the Grand Canyon, parts of West Texas and now exploring the beauty of Virginia, we feel at home where nature grows and thrives. My passions in life are trail running and trash clean up. There is no better way to thank the Earth for all it provides than leaving it cleaner than we found it. Through so many changes, sharing our love of the outdoors with our child has been the most incredible feeling as a parent. Every moment we stop to feel bark on a tree, touch fresh raindrops on a leaf, and look up at the cloudy sky swirling above us, we are leaving a strong impression to keep the love of the outdoors alive for future generations.

Favorite Adventure: The Redwoods will always have a special place in my heart. Walking among ancient giants and breathing in such crisp, fresh air is what life is all about.

Favorite Trail Snack: Peanut Butter Clif Bars, fresh fruit, and endless sips of cold water.

I absolutely love hiking with my Luna Sandals, make sure to pack plenty of snacks to share with my child, and a raincoat/headlamp just in case!

Hey, I’m Julie! I’m originally from Maryland but currently stationed in the Hampton Roads area finishing up my twilight tour in the Navy. It has been a wild ride and I have met so many amazing people through different duty stations from Japan, North Carolina, Virginia and deployments all over the world. Some of my fondest memories are of the time I spent with the Marines outside doing anything from landing helicopters to teaching combat lifesavers. I have always enjoyed being outside and in the water from an early age. I fell in love with the outdoors on a hike with my husband when a mama bear and her three cubs casually walked past us. Since then, I have gotten outside and specifically to the mountains as often as possible. Hiking has brought me a sense of peace and freedom but also an opportunity to really connect with my kids. I also enjoy cycling, kayaking, paddleboarding and camping.

Favorite Adventure: Hiking the Inca Trail to see Machu Picchu at sunrise.

Favorite Trail Snack: Welch’s Fruit Snacks. It is one snack my whole family enjoys and easy to pack when out on the trail!

I always pack sunscreen, a flashlight, and a robust first aid kit.

Hi! My name is Elena. My family and I reside in Virginia. I am a mother, military spouse, veteran, digital experience professional, and more. Nature is awesome (truly awe-some) and being outdoors and moving make me feel alive. In addition, I feel you can connect with yourself and others in a way and moving make me feel alive. In addition, I feel you can connect with yourself and others in a way you can’t in other environments. Having the ability to experience different seasons in Virginia provides the opportunity to diversify outdoor fun. I enjoy running, hiking, cycling, snowboarding, and more. I’ve only started paddling, camping and backpacking here within the past several years. This year I am working on obtaining my scuba certification and look forward to adventures with it. My love of the outdoors and moving was fostered by my dad and I strive to share it with my family and others.

Favorite Adventure: The one that just happened and the next one that’s upcoming! I find each adventure has its own gifts.

Favorite snack: A couple of recent favorite snacks for hiking include pickle infused beef jerky and single serving chocolate squares with coffee mixed in them (Pocket Latte).

I always pack sunscreen and more water than I think I need.

My partner serves in the USAF and we've enjoyed living on the paradise island of Guam, beautiful rolling plains of Kansas, and recently moved to Virginia.

My favorite part of getting outside is that moment where any inner turmoil is silenced by the calm and quiet of the nature around me...whether it's relaxing inside an isolated cave or dipping into a rushing waterfall.

Favorite Adventure: It's a tough call between swimming underground in the crystal clear waters of Pågat Cave or trailing along the Southern Mountain ridge along southern Guam

Favorite Trail Snack: Sahale Pomegranate and Vanilla Cashews

I always pack my SpyderCo Knife