Before You Complain About the Crowds… Read This

I almost let frustration ruin a beautiful day on the trail—but then I remembered something important.

Su Duc Falls

But then I paused for an attitude adjustment (really more of a personal butt kicking).

It reminded me of January in the gym, when everything is crowded, loud, and clumsy but also hopeful. It's not the time to sneer or judge. It's the time to be kind, welcoming, and quietly proud that people are trying something new. Because if we want healthier people and a healthier planet, we need more folks falling in love with movement, nature, and time spent outside.

So even though it was chaotic, I reminded myself:

Smile.

Be kind.

Let them fall in love.

Let them experience the joy of fresh air, family and friendship bonding that happens in nature, and the land's beauty. Let them start forming patterns of wellness and connection to the outdoors. And maybe—just maybe—if they fall in love with it enough, they'll become future protectors of these places. Maybe they'll pack out their trash and encourage others to do the same. Maybe they'll become the next generation of stewards.

So, if you're a regular out here and love these places too, please join me in this summer shift of mind. We are the ones who can set the tone.

Lead by example. Show respect for the land, each other, and the beginner's courage.

When someone asks about a trail, recommend something beautiful and approachable. Let them ease in and let them succeed.

Because when they see us hiking confidently—maybe even effortlessly—they might think, "That's how I want to walk these trails."

When we encourage their effort, we help them believe they belong here, too.

The goal is not to protect the park from people.

The goal is to help people fall so deeply in love with it that they will also protect it.

The easier, popular trails may be crowded—but they're also the gateway. The invitation.

And those of us who've been here a while? We can take the farther parking spot. We can step aside and smile. We can remember how we once fell in love with a waterfall, or a pine-scented breeze, or the hush of a trail at dusk.

Because the truth is: these places belong to everyone.

And if we do it right, the newbies become the next generation who take our place—and keep showing up with reverence, joy, and care.

Let's be the reason they want to come back.

#LeaveNoTrace #TrailsAreForEveryone #NatureHeals #MovementMatters #BeTheExample #EncourageNewHikers #OptOutside #NationalParks