HIKE the Giant: How One Weekend Changed My Hiking Journey
Five years ago, I decided to take a solo weekend getaway — and I made it all about hiking. I signed up for a HIKE for Mental Health event, packed my gear, and headed north from New Jersey to Neversink, New York.
Day One: Neversink & Hook Mountain
My first stop was Hook Mountain, a last-minute idea to break up the drive to Connecticut and take in some beautiful Hudson River views. What I thought would be a short stroll turned into a full-day adventure of climbing up and down, up and down the mountain. Just when I thought the uphill was done, another climb appeared.
When I finally reached the summit, I took my time soaking in the view — the Hudson River stretching in the distance, even a glimpse of Rikers Island. The descent took me down to the riverbank, and then, of course, back up to my car. It was exhausting, but the perfect start to my weekend.
Day Two: Sleeping Giant State Park
The next morning was the main event — HIKE the Giant at Sleeping Giant State Park in Connecticut. This was their first year hosting the now-annual event. From above, the ridge looks like a giant lying in the mountains, and the park offers three routes: easy, moderate, and hard.
My sore muscles were leaning toward an easier trail, but when I arrived, the energy from the HIKE for Mental Health crew was contagious. They were passionate, encouraging, and convinced me to join the Blue Trail — the hardest route.
The Blue Trail was no joke. At one point, you scale the side of the mountain on jagged rock, bear-crawling up steep cliffs. I stashed my trekking poles, gripped the rocks, and moved slowly but steadily upward. My heart pounded with adrenaline, but I let that energy push me forward instead of letting fear hold me back.
When I finally reached the top, two fellow hikers from the group had waited for me. The three of us completed the hike together — a reminder that no one gets left behind in this community.
Why I Keep Coming Back
Since that weekend, I’ve returned to HIKE the Giant every year I could:
Year Two: I explored the Violet Trail, with its scenic ruins and peaceful mountain paths.
Year Three: I wasn’t able to attend, and I definitely missed the Connecticut crew.
Year Four: I volunteered, greeting hikers at the tower — the main destination for all routes.
Year Five (this year): I’m back to hiking again, ready for another challenge.
HIKE for Mental Health is more than just hiking events. It’s a community where you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. There’s no judgment, only encouragement. It’s about connecting with nature, pushing your limits, and making lifelong friends.
Hiking for a Cause
These hikes aren’t just about the trail — they raise funds for mental health research and trail conservation. Being part of this organization has deepened my love for the outdoors, encouraged me to challenge myself, and boosted my own mental well-being.
If you’re inspired to start hiking, you don’t have to tackle Sleeping Giant or Mount Washington right away. Begin with local trails — one of my favorites in New Jersey is Cheesequake State Park, with its easy, scenic routes. Small steps lead to bigger adventures.
Whether you hike solo or with a group, nature has a way of grounding you, challenging you, and healing you. And when you join a HIKE for Mental Health event, you’re doing something good for yourself and for others.
Join Me in Supporting HIKE for Mental Health
This year’s HIKE the Giant takes place on September 6th, and my personal campaign page will close after the event. If you’d like to contribute at any time — before or after the hike — you can make a donation directly to HIKE for Mental Health here:
👉 Donate to HIKE for Mental Health
Every contribution supports mental health research and keeps our trails beautiful for future generations.
See you on the trail — and remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. One step at a time is still progress.