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

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.

Our bodies are made to move, and moving down the trail is one of the oldest, natural ways people have used their bodies.

Going into the woods, you can go as fast or as slow as you want. It's restorative. Even when I was young, the wilderness offered not only adventure but also therapy and peace: a place to be alone with your thoughts.

I found things in the woods that I didn’t know I was looking for… and now I’ll never be the same.

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.

I'd always had an interest of pushing my limits and was intrigued by endurance.