Peace After Loss — Heather’s Tale from the Trail

Grief is a deeply personal journey, but for many nature offers a place of solace and healing. American Hiking’s @heatherkleinolson shares how time on the trails has helped her find peace after an immeasurable loss.

“I lost my mom to cancer in October, and the year leading up to her passing was filled with grief. Since her diagnosis in November 2023 and following her passing, I’ve been navigating the stages of grief. I grew up with only one parent, so none of my friends could truly understand what it’s like to lose the only one you have. Even my siblings and I, each with our own unique relationship with her, experienced grief in different ways. And grief can be an incredibly lonely journey.

After losing my mom, I realized that the person who could relate most to my experience was me. In that moment, I knew I was the only person who could give me what I needed to heal and that I had to take care of myself—not only for my own well-being but for my two children, my family, and the amazing team I lead. Most of that self-care has been getting out on the trails. Before she passed, my mom put together a box of photos for me. Among them was a picture of me as a child, likely taken about 35 years ago. When I saw it, I cried. The girl in this picture—full of life and carefree—reminded me of the essence of who I am. She wore white without a care if it got dirty, she was fully accessorized, her hair was an adorable mess, she was beaming even with skinned knees, and she climbed trees without hesitation. All she needed to thrive was fresh air, sunlight, food, water, and love.

This photo reminds me that the outdoors—the trails—are essential for my growth, not just through grief but throughout my entire life. And even though grief can be a lonely journey, when I’m hiking by myself it doesn’t feel lonely out here. Each time I’m here I feel connected to everything around me and feel my mother’s presence. It’s a space where I can reconnect with that childlike spirit within me and continue moving forward.”

Have trails been a positive part of your journey?

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