Renowned Mountaineer To Lead Hiking Series In West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Starting this Saturday, Feb. 28, residents will have an opportunity this winter, spring, and summer to hit the trails with a world-renowned mountaineer.

That's because Lhakpa Sherpa, who has climbed Mount Everest, is participating in a new community wellness initiative in West Hartford.

Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford (JFS), in partnership with the West Hartford Prevention Partnership, is launching “Community in Motion: A Seasonal Hiking Series."

This is a nature-based program designed to promote emotional wellness, resilience, and connection.

The series will begin Saturday, Feb. 28, at 10 a.m. at the West Hartford Reservoir, 1420 Farmington Ave.

Additional hikes are scheduled for Sunday, March 29, and Sunday, June 28, both at 10 a.m., with locations to be announced.

Organizers said backup dates will be scheduled in the event of inclement weather.

Sherpa, described by organizers as a renowned climber who has summited Mount Everest 10 times, will lead each session.

The hikes will explore themes of resilience, blooming, and thriving across the winter, spring, and summer gatherings.

According to JFS, the program is open to all adults in the community, including those in recovery and individuals seeking connection.

Organizers say the goal is to help participants explore inner strength, restore confidence, and experience the healing power of the natural world.

Each hike will begin and end with a mindfulness practice and light movement or stretching.

Participants will also have the opportunity to learn from Sherpa and gather for conversation following the walk.

A supply list and a mandatory consent form will be emailed to registered participants in advance of each hike.

For more information and to sign up for the hikes, click on this link.