Meet Fran, Organizer of OTG

How long have you been hiking, and what inspired you to become a hiker?

 I was an active hiker in my teens and early 20's. Although I always kept my love of the wilderness, it was not until just a few years ago that was able to pursue hiking again. I am lucky enough to have lived all my life in the mountains of North Georgia.  My inspiration to begin hiking again was the renewal of a lifelong goal of mine to complete the Appalachian Trail. I have a thru-hike planned for 2017.

 

What hiking experience has affected you the most?  

Last month, I had the opportunity to hike to LeConte Lodge in Smokey Mountains.  The beauty of this area was incredible. Although the hike was very challenging for me, I felt like I had taken the next step,  or moved forward in a way in my hiking "career".

    

Do you have a trail name? Would you like to tell everyone how you earned it?

 No trail name yet. I feel like trail names are for AT thru hikers, which I am not yet. :)

 

When did you join OTG? How did you discover the group? 

I have been a leader with OTG since it was founded last summer. Some friends of mine had an idea for a womens' only hiking, camping, travel, and backpacking group. I have enjoyed watching the group grow to nearly 400 members in the last year.

 

Outside of OTG, what occupies your time?

I have a family, three kids ages 14-22. My husband and I love to travel with the kids, camp, and take Harley rides with friends.

 

What trail is your favorite? Why?

My favorite trail is the Hike Inn trail. It is my favorite because I know it so well and I never get tired of hiking it.  I love to see the changes each season on this trail. Of course it doesn't hurt that the lodge is waiting for me at the end!

 

Why is spending time out there in nature important to you?

Being in nature for me, brings peace of mind. No distractions, no worries, just you and the trail.

 

What single piece of advice would you give to beginning hikers?

Just go for it! I lost a lot of years by thinking I was not in good enough shape, that I might not be able to do it. A simple walk at your local park leads to a mile, then two miles, then more. Then you are out there seeing things others can't because you hiked to them. Do not worry about your pace, and do not try to maintain a pace you can't be comfortable in. No matter how slow you are, you are still out there, way ahead of the people who never try.