Build Your Walking Habit with Friends

The last few weeks I have been missing my regular walks in the forest. I injured my foot and have only been able to manage the short 10 -15 minute walks to make sure my dog gets out to do his daily business. It’s made me appreciate my body when it’s healthy.

Walking is the foundation of an active outdoor lifestyle and it becomes even more important as we age.

Here’s just a few things that happen when women 50+ walk regularly:

But here’s what matters most: It’s not about the distance you walk or the amount of time you walk. It’s about the consistency and the commitment to yourself, your health, and the life you want to live.

And it’s always easier to build a habit with friends. Which brings me to this week’s big announcement.

I have been working on a comprehensive directory of women’s walking and hiking clubs in North America. I just published the first draft - over 100 clubs are organized by state and province.

Here’s what you’ll find:

Whether you’re looking for casual neighborhood strolls, challenging mountain hikes, or just want to meet other women who get it - there’s probably a club waiting for you.

This is a work in progress. Can’t find a club near you? Know of a club I don’t have on the list? Hit reply and let me know - I’m always adding new walking communities and I’d love to help you find your walking people.

📖 To Read: Thirty Below by Cassidy Randall

What happens when women stop waiting for permission and just go? This is the story of the 1970 all-female Denali expedition - twelve women who climbed together, proved the doubters wrong, and made history. Even if you're not a climber or don't typically read mountain tales, this one will grab you. The perseverance, the friendship, and the sheer audacity of attempting this when the climbing world genuinely believed women's bodies couldn't handle altitude (some literally thought their uteruses would fall out) - it's captivating.

Independent Bookstores Canada | Independent Bookstores USA

🌍 To Go: Classic Italy with Women Travel Abroad

I've been eyeing this trip all week! Rome, Florence, Venice during my birthday week in September. What I love: private rooms (no sharing!), built-in free time to wander on your own, but the safety and support of a small women's group and guide when you want it. It's the perfect balance of solo exploration and community.

Classic Italy Trip • She Can Explore Partner

🗺️ To Explore: Sunshine Coast Trail, BC

The Sunshine Coast Trail has been on my bucket list for a while. I'm thinking of tackling it this summer. Funny thing - I lived in Powell River during my teenage years and never thought about it. Now that I'm in my 50s, I can't get it off my mind. It's a 180 km hut-to-hut backcountry experience that stretches from Sarah Point in Desolation Sound to Saltery Bay along BC's beautiful Sunshine Coast. If you need a basecamp, Beach Gardens Resort in Powell River has oceanfront rooms with private patios and easy trail access.

Sunshine Coast Trail | Beach Gardens Resort • She Can Explore Partner