Hiking For Meaning and Connection

Hiking For Meaning and Connection

Social clubs, like Hike The Okanagan in Kelowna, BC, provide a unique platform for adults of all ages to connect with others and improve their health in a spectrum of ways. 

In today's fast-paced world, it's common to find ourselves in new surroundings, lacking old friendships or seeking a sense of community. Joining a social club like Hike The Okanagan offers a solution to fill that gap by providing new opportunities for friendship and connection with individuals from diverse ages, backgrounds and interests. We are a club for adults of all ages, who encourage attendees to get their fur babies out to meet new friends as well!

The theory of Dunbar's Number states that the average person can only maintain stable social relationships with around 5 people in their inner circle and up to 15 in their outer circle. By joining a social club, individuals can expand their social circle and improve their mental wellbeing. Hiking together has been shown to increase the release of oxytocin, a hormone responsible for feelings of happiness, trust, and bonding, making it a great way to reduce stress and anxiety.

In addition to improving mental health, participating in group hikes provides a supportive and encouraging environment to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reach fitness goals. It also offers a sense of security and reduces the risks associated with hiking alone, such as getting lost, encountering wildlife, or experiencing an injury.

Hike The Okanagan has been operating since 2011 and after a brief 3-year hiatus while the founder hosted in the Rocky Mountains, we are back in full force for 2023 with a variety of exciting new free public group hikes planned for the coming season.

For photography enthusiasts, Hike The Okanagan offers the added bonus of capturing stunning views and breathtaking landscapes. So why not join Hike The Okanagan for your next outdoor adventure? Not only will you crush some fitness goals, but you'll wind up with a spectacle of new Instagrammable memories. Marvel at the gems of the Okanagan Valley, home to the Opgopogo, which incudes countless waterfalls, pristine mountain tops, and caving and canyoning gems.

We provide a unique platform for individuals to not only form platonic connections but occasionally romantic ones. We're proud to remember many couples who shared a passion for hiking that met through our group, and are still together today. Unlike the increasingly mechanical and impersonal world of online dating, Hike The Okanagan offers a low-pressure supportive group setting, new friendships, and opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement.

Join us on a journey towards improved health and happiness, in a setting that prioritizes genuine human connection. Let 2023 be a year for a focus on both your mental and physical health!