Remarkable Missoula Organization Ensures that Nobody is Left Behind

When scrolling through Missoula Events I saw an event called “Fat Girls Hiking” which immediately caught my eye. Hiking can be intimidating in a town like Missoula where everyone seems to hike. Buying the shoes, knowing trails that are good for beginners, and coming prepared can be intimidating and put people off who have never gone hiking. However, Fat Girls Hiking ensures that no matter the body type, the accessibility needs, or the hiking experience nobody is left out.

Their Mission

Shelby Humphreys is a hiking guide for the Missoula chapter of Fat Girls Hiking. She explained that “no one is left behind” regardless of their needs.

When planning hikes she takes into account the needs of those attending. Elevation and path width are the major factors. The hikes can go for longer or shorter depending on what the group wants and she always makes time for a snack break.

The hikes are all about having fun and having a good time. “It’s pretty casual,” Humphreys said. She shared a story where a woman and her husband brought a chair whenever a break was needed and this allowed the entire group to look at the wildflowers growing in the springtime. This hike turned into a wildflower walk, which was a special moment for all the hikers.

It's for Everyone

Fat Girls Hiking is not just about body positivity, but it’s about getting outside and into hiking. Fat Girls Hiking is open to everyone, “even boys” Humphrys says. The group hosts hikes on the second Saturday of every month. Their social media is constantly being updated with new information about the hikes.

Their Instagram is @fatgirlshiking_missoula. Their Facebook group is called “Fat Girls Hiking Missoula” and the group also posts details about hikes on Missoula Events.