Founder

Hi, I’m Mel! I’m a wife, a dog mom to two Bernedoodles, a traveler, and a Midwest girly at heart (yes, thick ‘Sconnie accent and all). I moved to Utah in 2023 for the love of the outdoors. The mountains quickly became my playground, a way to explore new places & connect with like minded people.

I started this group because I wanted a space where women could feel supported, welcomed, and excited to get outside. Hiking has always been a way for me to connect with nature and boost my mental health, and I wanted to share that with others.

What began as casual meet-ups has grown into a community that I am so incredibly proud of. I love being able to create moments where women can explore together safely, meet new friends and enjoy experiences that feel grounding and empowering.

Whether you have weathered pairs of hiking boots or lacing up for the first time, I am so glad that you are here! You are part of something special.

Hike Lead + Community Facilitator

Hey there, I’m Lex! Another proud Midwest transplant, originally from Nebraska. My husband and I moved to Salt Lake after a year in Vegas, and have been in the valley since June 2024. I work fully remotely for a tree planting non-profit. You’ll often see me on dog-friendly hikes with my little man, Guinness, the longest legged German Short Haired pointer you ever did see.

Traveling is a huge part of my life, I just accomplished a long time goal of visiting 30 countries before I turned 30 years old.

I started attending Girls Gone Hiking events shortly after Mel got it started, and it truly helped me find my people.

I am excited to step into this ambassador role and continue building community with all of you. I am a firm believer that if you want a village, you’ve got to be a villager, and I aim to be someone my community can rely on. I can’t wait to get out and explore the gorgeous nature we are surrounded by with all of you!