Why Join us on Hikes?

Let me tell you a story.

It all started after a long week—the kind that city life in Chicago throws at you. Our schedules were packed and the to-do list felt endless. At the time, we had just become new parents. Our daughter was 14 months old, and we were navigating a world of diapers, sleep schedules, and constant motion.

That’s when I stumbled upon this hiking group on Facebook. Something about it felt right. So, my husband and I bundled up our little one and decided to give it a try. It looked like it might rain that day, and we were nervous—it would’ve been her first time outdoors like this with the baby. But we hoped it wouldn’t pour. A few strangers (shoutout to Mohit! 😄) were meeting up just before dawn that Saturday, coffee in hand, boots laced tight, heading west for a trail I’d never even heard of.

We almost backed out. But we didn’t.

That morning, our destination was Starved Rock State Park—just two hours from the city. And as the skyline faded in the rearview mirror, so did the stress. The forest welcomed us like an old friend—oak trees overhead, soft trails beneath our feet, and waterfalls that spoke in a language only nature knows.

There’s something magical about hiking with this group. You start as strangers with packed bags and trail mix, but by the third mile, someone’s sharing a story, another offers a snack, and by sunset—if you’re camping—you’re gathered around a fire, feeling like a tribe that’s known each other for years.

Whether we were pitching tents under the starry skies at Shawnee National Forest or cooking breakfast in the misty morning at Devil’s Lake in Wisconsin, the connection kept growing.

What makes this special isn’t just where we go—it’s how we go. Together. Safely. With people who know the trails, who’ve got your back when you forget a piece of gear, who’ll lend you an extra layer when the wind picks up. And yes, even if someone were to twist an ankle, there's always a helping hand—perhaps even a physiotherapist Radha among us—to get them back on their feet. (Not that I'm suggesting we test that theory! 😄)

You don’t have to be an expert hiker or own fancy equipment. All you need is a little curiosity and a good pair of socks. We’ll help with the rest—from guiding you to the perfect scenic overlook to witnessing a sunrise that makes you forget email even exists.

So if you’re in Chicago and feel the pull of trees, stars, and quiet—come with us. The trails are closer than you think. And the people? They’re the reason you’ll keep coming back.