Meet camper steph
Steph shares how a spontaneous decision to join a Trails & Roots Camp led to unforgettable runs, lasting friendships, and a new way to travel. Now three Camps in, she reflects on why the mix of great trails, "bad-ass" Campers, and zero planning stress keeps her coming back for more...
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“There’s a reason I’ve been to three Camps… and plan to go to more!”
I first signed up for a Trails & Roots Camp because of my friend Erin. She found the very first one in Chamonix through a Google search and asked if I wanted to come along. I figured, why not? I wasn’t sure what to expect, especially since it was the first-ever Camp, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve now been to three Camps and each one has been incredible in its own way. |
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Sharing a Trails & Roots adventure with people I love, like friends from my running club in San Francisco or my husband, really deepens our bond. Out on the trails, I feel like I can be my most authentic self, and I think that could be said for a lot of the other Campers too. There’s something about stepping away from the everyday, pushing yourself, soaking in the beauty around you, and just being fully present. When you get to do that with someone else, it creates a connection that lasts far beyond the run.
At the same time, making new friends at Camp has been just as special. Trail running tends to attract kind, genuine, and down-to-earth people, and that’s absolutely true of Trails & Roots. I’ve never felt like I had to “balance” time between old friends and new ones at Camp. Everyone just comes together naturally, and the quality time and connections flow without effort.
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Since I have limited vacation time, these Camps have been the perfect way to experience trailrunning holidays without the stress of planning. You really can just show up and enjoy – it’s a dream!! Heather and the team think through everything so carefully, from the routes to the meals to the vibes. The trails we run are ones I know I wouldn’t have found or tried on my own, and that’s part of the magic. . No matter where we are, I always know we’re in for a treat when it comes to exploring trails that many don’t get the chance to experience. Every Camp, I find myself somewhere stunning that feels a little off the beaten path, and I love that.
Trail Camps also give me space to reset and recharge from the demands of my job and daily life. They always help me gain perspective and remind me how important it is to live in the moment. There’s nothing like standing in the middle of the mountains to make you feel small in the best way possible – IYKYK!
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One of the most unexpected and meaningful parts of being part of the Trails & Roots community has been the friendships I’ve made across all walks of life. I’ve been so inspired by the people I’ve met at Camps - authentic, genuine, straight-up badass humans who lift each other up. The other Campers are honestly one of the biggest highlights of every experience.
If you’re someone who loves trail running but feels hesitant to join a Camp or you’re worried you’re not fast enough or experienced enough, please know these Camps truly are for everyone.
The T&R team are absolute logistics masters and make sure everyone feels welcome and supported, no matter your pace or background. I always repeat what Heather says: It’s your vacation! It’s not a bootcamp…unless you want it to be, haha 😄 Trail Camps are specifically designed for you to enjoy your time in a new place with new friends!
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Favourite Trail Camp Route!?
Ahh so many to choose from… I don’t think I can pick just one run, but Trail Camp Chamonix holds a special place in my heart. One, because it was my first time in Chamonix (mind-blowing), and two, because it was the first ever Trails & Roots Camp and it really felt like it was the start of something amazing.
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Favourite Trail Camp meal/snack!?
The cake at the last lunch before everyone departs. It’s always spectacular, and it’s always the best cake you will ever have!
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Final Words?
If I had to sum up the Trails & Roots experience in one word?
✨AMAZING!!✨
I know that’s simple, but it’s the truth. There’s a reason I’ve been to three Camps so far, and I plan to keep going!
✨AMAZING!!✨
I know that’s simple, but it’s the truth. There’s a reason I’ve been to three Camps so far, and I plan to keep going!
Have any questions for us or our Campers?
