Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am a California native with Portuguese roots. I’m in my early 40's, living in California’s central valley with my husband and four kids (three teens and a toddler!). I am an all-around mom, for lack of a better term. My...
Valerie HOPKINS
Latest Stories
365er Profiles – Meet DiDi
DiDi is a very active member of our 365 Mile Challenge, so instead of just swooning over her gorgeous photos - yet again, I thought it would be fun to learn a little more about the woman behind the camera. Q: We know that you’re an avid hiker. When did you discover...
Why the 365 Mile Challenge Still Matters – Even Now
"Everything is closed and/or canceled, the stock market is crashing, and we’re stuck at home practicing Social Distancing! How can you expect me to care about the Challenge at a time like this?” Because it will help you get through this - physically and...
Sole Sisters – Mentors from the Past
I did not grow up in an "outdoorsy" family. My mother was too busy partying and my dad was off somewhere with wife number 3... or maybe it was 4? (I forget.) We had no family around and we didn’t know anyone who hiked, so where did my undeniable love - and need - for...
365 Miles Together – Tips for Logging Miles with Your Kids
The Challenge within a Challenge 365 Miles with your kids - yeah, that's definitely a challenge. I know that the thought of logging all of those miles with your children along side you can seem overwhelming at first. I've been there too. Funny thing is that once we...
7 Tips to Help You Get Outside When it is Cold
It's winter. You are probably pumped and ready to go, but there is one thing stopping you: it's COLD outside! In some areas, it’s incredibly cold. If you want to get outside, even when it’s frigid, these tips are for you! 1. Layers upon layers upon layers If you’re...





