The Impact of Hiking on Mind and Body

By Spencer Stockton

Hello, my name is Spencer, and hiking has always been a part of my life, but I never fully appreciated its impact, physically and mentally, until I was older. Growing up, I spent a lot of time outside, camping and exploring, and I was lucky to travel to many national parks with my family. I always loved the interpretive centers, though I didn’t appreciate all the information until later in life. My interest in history, particularly old cowboy westerns I watched with my dad and military history I learned from my grandpa and brother who’s a Navy veteran, shaped much of my perspective. I wanted to be a cowboy, but since I couldn’t afford a horse, I chose the cheaper option, becoming a soldier.

After joining the Army in 2018 I became an Army Ranger for 1st Ranger Battalion, I found myself in places I never imagined I would go, exploring the Appalachian Mountains, the Florida swamps, the forests of Kentucky, and even places in Iraq and bases in Afghanistan and Africa. While the landscapes were striking, what tied them all together for me were the people I met and the stories they shared. Whether it was a local instructor during training or an interpreter on deployment, I was fascinated by the history and cultural significance of each place. When I left the Army, I realized I missed that feeling of learning about the land beneath my feet. That’s what led me back home to Nevada, to the trails, and to a deeper understanding of the place where I grew up.

Now, I work as an interpretive trail guide, sharing the history, ecology, and hidden stories of Northern Nevada with others. Hiking in the Truckee Meadows has become my way of staying connected, both physically and mentally. The act of setting a goal, hitting the trail, and immersing myself in nature clears my mind and strengthens my body. It’s why I appreciate programs like the Truckee Meadows Trails Challenge, which encourages people to explore the diverse trails in the region while learning about the natural and cultural history of Northern Nevada. By joining the challenge, participants commit to a year of hiking, setting goals, and even taking part in guided interpretive hikes that highlight what makes our local trails special.

For me, hiking is more than just a walk in the desert, it’s a way to rediscover my home, stay active, and continue my lifelong journey of learning. Whether you’re looking for a physical challenge, a mental reset, or a deeper connection to the land, I encourage you to take on the Truckee Meadows Trails Challenge. You never know what stories you’ll uncover along the way.

 

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About the Author

Spencer Stockton

Interpretive Trail Guide