One of the best feelings I had growing up was being completely exhausted at the end of the day after playing outside all day.

I was surrounded by life and beauty. My soul was content, and my life felt full.

One thing I think I've always felt about being in nature is that it's a very natural taste.

A lot of people talk about the trail healing them, but I feel like, the first time, it humbled me, which I probably needed. It was a completely new way to experience the world and my body.

Hiking is great because it's a lifelong sport and you're outdoors, active, so whether you call that a sport or a hobby or a recreation, I think the wording - it's a great way to get exercise, and it can be as challenging as you want to make it.

My motivation to keep hiking was rooted in the magnificent details of the Appalachian Mountains, and the more I poured myself out - the more energy I gave the trail - the more it gave me in return.

Something deep within me connected with hard work, nature and simplicity.