I’ve recently had quite a few people asking me how I’ve found those that I go out walking with, so I thought I’d share a few of the platforms that have helped me. It has definitely been a long process of pushing myself out of my comfort zone and building my confidence though.
Local /Facebook walking groups:
Back at the start of lockdown I joined several local walking groups on Facebook. It took me a long time to actually go on a walk with one, but it was one of the best things I ever did. I first joined a group called Peaks N Pubs and met some amazing people. This group helped me build my confidence, both socially and nav wise, and after only a few walks with the group I went on a camping trip with them to the Lake District and had an incredible weekend (despite the weather).
A couple of other Facebook groups that I’ve connected with people through are:
– Outdoors Mates and Dates (A mix of people all over the UK looking for people to go hiking/camping/adventure with and also group meet ups in non lockdown times).
– Outdoorsygals (There is a specific group for Europe and I started speaking to several relatively local girls after just posting and introducing myself).
Instagram:
There have been a few different ways that I’ve met people through Instagram.
The main way has been through genuine, natural conversation. I have had a few people message me out the blue asking to go for a walk, however I find this quite daunting. I want to get to know someone a bit first (though saying this, when I did the Yorkshire 3 Peaks I went with a someone I’d barely spoken to and we got on like a house on fire). I usually start chatting to people through responding to their posts and stories, or them responding to mine. I’ve become close with people that I’d reached out to, usually asking questions about something they’d posted (van conversions, routes, swim spots). The hiking community seems to be mostly full of open, likeminded people. You’re most likely going to have things in common so conversation shouldn’t be difficult!
I’ve also joined several organised group walks through various different networks. The main one has been Rose’s wellbeing walks with Nav Trek. They’re such a knowledgeable pair and I’ve met some amazing people. I’m going to be doing a nav course with them soon too, which I’m very excited about! I’ve also been involved with Misfits Mountain Movement and I’m heading out with them again in a few weeks time.
Bumble Friends:
Back in early lockdown, when I had recently seperated, I was struggling with not having any friends locally. Someone recommended the bumble friends app to me (I had no idea it was a thing), but I met so many lovely people through it, including my hiking bestie. It basically works the same way as a dating app, but just to meet like minded friends in your area.
I think the main thing is be yourself, make genuine connections with people and be willing to push yourself out of your comfort zone a little.
Do be mindful though that not everyone is going to be comfortable meeting a ‘stranger’ from the internet. Try not to take it personally if you reach out and someone doesn’t seem overly keen. Maybe try and organise your own group walk and bring some likeminded people together. This can be a lot less daunting for the first time meeting someone new.
It’s also important to always be careful when meeting new people. Tell somewhere where you’re going, make sure they’re who they say they are and never feel pressured to meet someone if you don’t feel comfortable.
These are just a few of the ways that I’ve connected with people over the last year, there will be so many more! Let me know below if you have an app or group that’s helped you meet your adventure buddies!
Lisa Outdoors 