Whats your motivation? Here's why I choose to get outdoors.

   Hiking isn't just an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, for me it's about reconnecting with loved ones through the solitude of the mountains.  In 2013, I was on a yearly summer camping trip in Yosemite National Park.  I enjoyed car camping and hiking the trails around the valley checking out the beautiful features of the park.  This trip changed my life forever because I found out that my grandfather had passed away while I was there.  Once I found out I panicked and needed to be alone, so I laced up my boots and took to the trails and hiked up as far as possible to get a close to the clouds as I could.  I sat down, ate lunch and talked to my grandfather.  I remember being full of resentment and anger because I didn't get to see him one last time to tell him goodbye and that I loved him.  I made him a promise that day that I would explore this beautiful earth and reach as many summits as possible to say hello to him one more time.  Fast forward to 2015, I lost a dear friend of mine.  Her appetite for adventure couldn't be matched.  She loved being outdoors and loved soaking in everything nature had to offer.  I've added her to my list of people I carry with me when I get out and hit the trails.  So, not only do I backpack and hike for myself because I love being outdoors and I love reaching new heights, but I do it for my grandpa and my friend.  I push myself harder and harder each time because I know in the end they are looking down on me somewhere smiling, enjoying this adventure right along side me!  Whats your motivation...