Minnesota
Twin Cities & Beyond • Est 2026
A hiking community built for women who want to get outside.
All paces. All levels. All women. Come as you are.
Built for Every Woman.
Every Trail.
GGH started with one trail and a group chat in Utah and it’s grown into a community of women who show up for each other on and off the trail.
Now we’re bringing that same energy to Minnesota. Whether you’ve never hiked before or you’re already planning your next North Shore adventure, there’s a place for you here.
No experience required. No ego allowed. Just women, fresh air, and good company.
All Paces Welcome
No one gets left behind. We hike together, always.
Leave No Trace
We respect the trails we hike. Groups capped at 10.
Safety Over Ego
We are honest about difficulty. No gatekeeping.
Meet Our Team
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Megan Beirne
STATE AMBASSADOR
Hey ladies! My name is Megan (Megs for short) 👋 and I’m beyond thrilled to be the official Minnesota Ambassador for Girls Gone Hiking 🥳
I’m a Minnesota based content creator, photographer, entrepreneur, and outdoor enthusiast who believes some of life’s best moments happen when we step outside our comfort zones and into nature.
My passion for the outdoors began while living in Colorado, where I discovered hiking, adventure travel, and the incredible impact that spending time outside can have on both our physical and mental well-being. Since returning to my home state of Minnesota, I’ve continued sharing that passion through content creation, community building, and outdoor leadership.
I’ve previously spent six years involved with the 52 Hike Challenge, including three years leading group hikes and events. Creating opportunities for people to connect with nature, with others, and with themselves, is something that deeply motivates me. Whether it’s organizing hikes, planning road trips, exploring national parks, or discovering hidden gems close to home, I love inspiring others to get outside & experience adventure in ways that feel accessible & meaningful!
As a business owner, mental health advocate, and entrepreneur, I understand the importance of building trust and fostering community.
At my core, I’m a big dreamer, planner, and believer that life is meant to be fully experienced. Whether I’m exploring a national park, supporting local businesses, creating content for a brand, or encouraging someone to take their first hike, my goal is always the same: to inspire others to live a little bigger, connect a little deeper, and create memories that last.I’m so excited to bring my experience, knowledge, and passion into THIS incredible community! The team that’s being built here in Minnesota is rooted in intention, purpose, and connection, with each woman bringing her own unique passions and strengths to the table. At the core of it all, I truly believe life isn’t meant to be lived alone. Life is better, together ❤️
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Ashley Kalar-Miller
CHAPTER COORDINATOR
Hi, I'm Ashley! I'm a Minnesota girl with a serious case of wanderlust, a deep love for the outdoors, and a leopard print obsession that absolutely extends to my hiking gear (you'll spot me on the trail, don't worry).
I'm somewhere between casual hiker and trail addict, my hiking highlight reel includes the stunning landscapes of Banff and Glacier National Park, but honestly, I'm on a mission to explore more of what's right here in our own backyard. Minnesota has so many hidden gems and I want to find them!
By day I own a business that helps real estate agents behind the scenes, which means I'm basically a professional organizer, communicator, and people-wrangler! I'm excited to bring these skills to the Girls Gone Hiking community. I wanted to volunteer because I was craving more time outside, more adventure, and more of the kind of people who say "yes" to a Thursday afternoon hike. (Turns out, that's all of you)
When I'm not on a trail, you can find me planning the next trip, exploring somewhere new, or spending time with my husband and fur babies.
So glad to be here!
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Ali Clements
HIKE LEAD
Ali was born in NC and raised in GA til she was 13, then life took her to MN where she remained until 18, then life, lifed and she moved all over until settling back in MN in 2017. Ali's professional background is in business, and volunteer coordination.
My love of the outdoors is multifaceted, and includes everything from bird watching to climbing mountains, to stargazing. My love for all things nature really solidified over the last decade as I learned to navigate this world sober and saw the sparkly of life with little to no filter. My newest favorite hobby is getting all the Hiking Club trails in and currently I am at 38 or so miles.
When I'm not hiking or outside I love a good cup of coffee, being on my paddle board, hanging out with my nieces and nephews, heading to the State Fair, and watching a MN sports team disappoint me yet again (unless we're talking the Frost or Lynx cause they don't let me down.
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Sarah Heaton
HIKE LEAD
Hi everyone! I’m Sarah. I grew up right here in Minnesota, where Voyageurs National Park was literally my backyard (shoutout to my hometown of International Falls, the "Ice Box of the Nation"!).
My background is in Human Relations, Women's Studies, and Community Health, so combining a passion for health and wellness with a deep love for nature is second nature to me.
For me, the stillness and fresh air of the trails are the ultimate ways to clear your mind and reset, even after the hardest of days. I love connecting with people and helping others connect with the outdoors to build true community.
When I’m not hiking, you can find me camping, practicing yoga, reading, checking out a local brewery or planning my next adventure—I’ll try almost anything once! I’m always trying to drag my family out onto the trails (they appease me some days), so I am incredibly excited to find my tribe out here and hit the trails with you all!
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Maddy Schwabe
HIKE LEAD
Maddy is a Wisconsin native and former travel nurse who traded west coast adventures for the lakes and trails of Minnesota. When she's not leading hikes, you'll find her with a book in hand, biking, or chasing a good sunset from the water's edge. A true boundary waters girl at heart, she's completed five trips to the BWCA… so yes, she knows her way around a canoe. At home, she's kept very busy by her rabbit, who runs the house.
Maddy brings the same adventurous spirit and genuine warmth to every trail she leads. We couldn't be more excited to have her on the GGH team!
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Our MN team is still forming!
We are looking for women in Minnesota who love GGH and want to help lead. We would love to hear from you!
Ready to Join Us?
When you’re ready to RSVP, simply reserve your spot directly through our website. Each event listing includes important details, meeting location information, and helpful notes to help you prepare.
Space is limited to keep group sizes safe, organized, and enjoyable for everyone. Please only reserve a spot if you plan to attend. If your plans change, cancel your RSVP so another gal can join!
Important note:
Simply add the event to your cart and complete checkout to secure your spot, it takes less than a minute.
Events will require completion of a liability waiver prior to attending.
June Events
Meet & Greet - Bauhaus Brew Labs
Thursday, June 4 | 6:00 PM
Afton State Park - Hastings
Saturday, June 13 | 9:00 AM
Afton State Park - POP UP HIKE
Saturday, June 13 | 1:00 PM
Pike Island Loop - Minneapolis
Sunday, June 14 | 10:30 AM
Eastman Nature - Maple Grove
Sunday, June 28 | 8:00 AM
July Events
French Park -
Sunday, July 19 | 8:00 AM
Frontenac State Park
Sunday, July 19 | 9:00 AM
Pike Island Loop - Fort Snelling
Monday, July 20 | 6:00 PM
Frontenac State Park
Saturday, July 25 | 10:00 AM
Join the GGH Minnesota Community
Get hikes before anyone else. Join our Telegram community, it's where new hike releases drop first, before they hit social media. Spots fill fast, so this is the best way to stay in the loop.
FAQ - Minnesota Chapter
📍 About the Minnesota Chapter
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The Minnesota chapter is based in the Twin Cities but we'll be exploring trails all across the state. From urban paths along the Chain of Lakes to state parks, the North Shore, and beyond. If it's a great trail in Minnesota, we'll find our way there.
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GGH Minnesota is led by your state ambassador, a Twin Cities woman who built this chapter for every woman who's been looking for her outdoor community and couldn't find one. Her team personally vets every trail before leading groups on it, your safety is always the first priority.
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The Minnesota chapter launched in 2026 as part of GGH's national expansion. We're brand new, and you're getting in on the ground floor. The founding chapter in Utah has been running since 2025 and everything we do here is built on what's worked there.
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Yes! GGH Minnesota is part of the Girls Gone Hiking national community, founded by Mel Jeske in Utah in 2025. Each chapter is locally led but shares the same values, standards, and sisterhood. One community, many trails.
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That's the plan! Minnesota has incredible four-season outdoor opportunities. Snowshoe hikes in winter, wildflower trails in spring, long summer evenings, and stunning fall colors. We'll adapt to the seasons and make the most of every one of them
🥾 Events & RSVPs
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Yes, all hikes require an RSVP through our website. Our groups are intentionally small (capped at 10) so everyone gets a real community experience. Spots fill up fast, so grab yours early!
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We cap every hike at 10 participants. This keeps groups manageable, safe, and genuinely connected, it's a community hike, not a crowd.
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No, all hikes are free; However, we do have some paid events. Pricing is always listed clearly on each event page before you RSVP. There are no surprise fees.
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Life happens, we get it. Please let us know as soon as possible so we can open your spot to someone on the waitlist. Paid event refund policies vary by event and will always be stated clearly at the time of registration.
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The best ways to stay in the loop:
Follow @girlsgonehiking.ut on Instagram
Follow Girls Gone Hiking - Minnesota on Facebook
Join our email list using the form on this page
Check back here, all upcoming hikes will be posted on the Minnesota events section
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Safety is always first. If conditions make a hike unsafe, we'll cancel or reschedule. You'll be notified by email and we'll post updates on Instagram. We never hike in conditions that put participants at risk.
👥 Who Can Come
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Not at all. GGH Minnesota is built for women of all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned hikers. Each event listing includes a difficulty rating and description so you can choose what fits your current level.
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Our hikes are women-only events. GGH is a space created specifically for women to connect, build confidence outdoors, and feel safe on the trail. We welcome all women, including trans and non-binary women who feel comfortable in women-centered spaces.
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It depends on the trail and the event. Dog-friendly hikes will always be noted clearly in the event description. If it's not listed as dog-friendly, please leave your pup at home for that one.
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All participants must be registered in advance, no walk-ups, please. If your friend wants to join, have them RSVP through the website. Spots are limited and we need an accurate headcount for safety.
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No one gets left behind. Our hikes are led at a pace that works for the group. We're not racing, we're connecting. If you're unsure whether a hike's pace is right for you, reach out before registering and we'll help you figure it out.
🗺️ Trails & Locations
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We'll be exploring a mix of urban trails, state parks, and regional adventures. Think Chain of Lakes, Minnesota state parks, and eventually North Shore trips. Each trail is personally vetted by our team before any group hike is scheduled..
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Mileage and elevation vary by event and will always be listed in the hike description. We offer a range (from casual urban walks to longer trail hikes) so there's something for every level.
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Yes. We intentionally plan hikes across a difficulty range so newer hikers always have options. Look for hikes labeled 'Easy' or 'Beginner-Friendly' in the event description if you're just getting started.
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Some state parks and trailheads require a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit or day pass. This will always be noted in the event details so you know what to bring or purchase before the hike.
🧳 What to Bring
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Layers are your best friend in Minnesota, weather can change fast, especially in spring and fall. We recommend:
Moisture-wicking base layer (no cotton)
A light jacket or windbreaker
Sturdy, comfortable footwear — trail shoes or hiking boots for anything beyond paved paths
Sunscreen and a hat for sunny days
Rain layer if there's any chance of precipitation
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For most hikes, pack:
Plenty of water (at least 2L for longer hikes)
Snacks or a lunch depending on hike length
A small first aid kit
Sunscreen and bug spray
Your phone (charged) and any medications you need
A light layer even on warm days — Minnesota weather is unpredictable
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For most hikes, no. The event description will always list if anything specific is needed (like microspikes for winter hikes or trekking poles for steep terrain). Start simple and build your kit over time, you don't need to show up fully outfitted on day one.
🧡 Community & Connection
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Follow @girlsgonehiking.mn on Instagram for trail updates, hike announcements, and community highlights. Sign up for our email list for direct updates straight to your inbox.
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Yes, details on how to join will be shared once you've attended your first hike. We use a group chat to keep the community connected between events.
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GGH Minnesota is a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful community. We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, bullying, or behavior that makes others feel unsafe. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or background. Anyone who doesn't uphold these values may be asked to leave and restricted from future events.
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Absolutely, you're part of the GGH family, not just the Minnesota chapter. Check out other active chapters at girlsgonehiking-usa.com and reach out to that chapter's Ambassador if you're visiting their state.
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We love that energy. As the Minnesota chapter grows, opportunities to co-lead hikes and support events will open up. Keep an eye on our Instagram and email list for announcements, or reach out to Mel directly at mjeske@girlsgonehiking-usa.com.