Hi there! Here are what some of our Bootleggers have had to say about their experience with Bootleg over the years:
- “My 1st year becoming a Bootlegger helped save my mental health. I was going through a divorce and we were in the middle of an epidemic. These people that didn’t even know we (yet) helped raise me up, one step in front of the other is a perfect description. Each year is better with this group of outstanding people. I don’t even remember how i found the group, but thankful on the daily. JOIN US!” – SV
— - “As long as you keep hosting, I will keep coming back! For me it started as a way to get outside more and be more active. But between the group hikes and social events I have made some life long friends who make this challenge even it also has pulled me out of a very dark time, and for that I am forever grateful!” – HH
— - “I look forward to Bootleg every year! I moved to Arizona 5 years ago and started hiking shortly after. Stumbling on Bootleg’s Instagram account was a blessing after my first winter of hiking by myself. The group is so fun and being around like minded people is the reason I keep coming back. Going on 4 years of 100 miles and can’t wait for many more!” – SW
— - “Last year was my first year joining the Bootleggers and I enjoyed every minute of it! I love hiking but I realized I was making excuses not to go. This challenge helped me prioritize hiking again and it challenged me to get my miles in. I am definitely joining again, but this time my goal to finish with more miles than last year!” -AB
— - “AZ Bootleg encouraged me to explore the trails I’ve lived next to for decades, and I never really appreciated them until now. The 100 mile self-challenge was my favorite part of the last year, and I can’t wait until the next years challenge. I’ve only participated for one season but I like the simplicity of the challenge.” – SN
— - “This will be my fifth year participating in the AZ Bootleg challenge! It’s such a great way to meet other hikers and it helps me feel motivated to kick my hiking into high gear every December! I’ve met a couple of close hiking friends through this event and love seeing everyone set and meet their goals.” – AS
— - “Bootleg has made me life long friends and gave me a group of fellow adventurers to get out and wander with. Now even in Alaska I’ve been privileged to have a fellow bootlegger come join me for some hikes and I plan to keep participating in the challenge even though I live out of state!” – JH
— - “Bootleg has been a game-changer for me! It’s helped me push my boundaries and try solo hiking, which I never thought I’d have the courage to do. It’s made me realize that I’m capable of more than I thought, and I’ve made some amazing friends along the way. I’m so grateful for Bootleg!” – LB
— - “When I first started Bootleg, I hiked 50 miles. My second year, I hiked 100 miles! The group gave me the confidence to complete the challenge. I don’t think I would have done that without their support. Thanks for getting me outside to enjoy this beautiful state.” – DK
— - “Bootleg motivates me to get outside even when I don’t mentally or physically feel like it. As a result, it lowers my stress & depends my appreciation for the therapeutic powers of nature. I am grateful for this challenge and the people behind it!” – WS
— - “Through AZ Bootleg I connected with so many wonderful people and have made lifelong friends while getting challenged to push myself in setting aside time for what makes me happy.” – JH
— - “Love this group and challenge! It’s a fun way for my family to get together in nature and connect with each other while having a friendly competition.” – KL
— - “I’ve been a Bootlegger for the past 2 years…last year was cool because my wife and I did it together and it was a badass way to spend time together!” – BS
— - “Bootleg has helped me explore the beautiful state of Arizona!” – BB
HUGE THANK YOU to all of our past Bootleggers — whether it was a one-and-done season, or those that return year after year. You all are what makes this Challenge so special!
Cheers,
Mags & Daniel