Vol. 26, Issue 8 • August 2026
Hike Inn Reflection
by Esther Hau Dim, Peer Leader Women's Refugee Network
After hiking five miles, we finally arrived at the Hike Inn. Reaching our destination brought a deep sense of relief and accomplishment after the long journey through the forest. Our hiking group, organized by Refugee Women's Network, is made up of incredible women from nine different countries: Bhutan, Nepal, India, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Sudan, and the United States. Even more inspiring is our age range—from 15 to 81 years old. No matter our age, race, religion, language, or the color of our skin, we are more than just a hiking group—we are a family. We encourage one another, share resources, and support each other's mental well-being, as well as the well-being of our families. As someone born and raised in Chin State, Myanmar, this hike carried a deeper meaning for me. Growing up, hiking was never considered a leisure activity or a way to relax. Walking was the only transportation many of us could afford. We walked long distances to work on our farms, visit relatives in neighboring villages, or buy basic necessities such as salt, cooking oil, and clothing. Many people carried heavy loads on their backs, making each journey a necessity rather than a choice. Along today's trail, I was delighted to see rhododendrons in white bloom. They reminded me of Taung Zalat, a beautiful red rhododendron that is the official state flower of Chin State, Myanmar. Seeing these flowers instantly brought back cherished memories of my childhood and of the mountains where I grew up. It reminded me that, even thousands of miles from home, nature has a remarkable way of connecting us to our roots, our memories, and the places we will always carry in our hearts. As we arrived at Hike Inn, we were warmly welcomed and given a tour of the Hike Inn. Learning about its history and mission was both encouraging and inspiring. One display that especially caught my attention showed the evolution of backpacks over the years. It reminded me how people have always sought ways to explore nature and how powerful nature can be in healing us emotionally, mentally, and physically. Equally inspiring was the Inn's commitment to sustainability. It reminded me of the importance of conserving nature and minimizing our carbon footprint so that future generations can continue to experience its beauty and healing power. In today's constantly busy and noisy world, spending even one night surrounded by the peace of the forest feels like a gift. Sometimes, that's exactly what we need—to step away, slow down, and reconnect with ourselves. As I lay on the lower bunk that evening, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude for the person who dreamed of building this Hike Inn in the middle of the forest. This simple place offers weary hikers more than just a bed to rest in—it offers hope. It is a reminder that kindness, vision, and community can make even the longest journey feel possible. Tonight, my heart is full—full of gratitude, friendship, and the beauty of nature. I feel refreshed, renewed, and ready to face whatever tomorrow may bring as I return to my own little noisy world. Esther Hau Dim is a Peer Leader with Refugee Women Network’s (RWN) Outdoor Wellness Program, where she has been an active hiker and swimmer for the past two years. She also serves as a RWN Community Health Worker supporting the Burmese community in and around Clarkston while working full-time as a Family Engagement Liaison with DeKalb County Schools.
A Tale Of Two Trails
by Kyle Richardson, Assistant Manager
A few weeks ago the Hike Inn was pleased to host Tisha McCombs, who gave an informative presentation on both the Colorado Trail (CT) and the Florida Trail (FT). Having worked for both the CT Foundation and the FT Association, Tisha was in a unique position to expound on both systems. During her program we learned a lot about the differences in the two trails, and I daresay many of us were inspired to add them to our dream trail lists.
The CT is maintained by the volunteers of The Colorado Trail Foundation, an independent organization that has run the trail since its opening in 1987. The FT is designated as a National Scenic Trail, and as such is maintained by the Florida Trail Association (FTA), receiving federal funding and subject to federal regulations. The FTA has to manage a good bit of private land, so thru-hikers must join the association to travel the FT.
Hikers who traverse Colorado’s signature trail system will cover around 567 miles from Denver to Durango, crossing eight mountain ranges, six national forests, six wilderness areas and accumulating roughly 89,000 feet of elevation gain. Most thru-hikers will spend 4-6 weeks on the CT, and have a short window (July-September) in which to make the attempt.
In Florida, thru-hikers won’t face the vertical challenge, but Florida’s main trail runs some 1,500 miles from South Florida to the Panhandle, and can take as much as three months to finish. The FT is open almost year-round, giving hikers more opportunity to give it a go. In Florida, there is a fair amount of flat road-walking, but the trail also covers a good chunk of wetlands, providing a unique thru-hiking challenge.
Thanks to Tisha for bringing these trails to our attention, and giving us something new to shoot for!
