Hikers leave urban lifestyle behind to find camaraderie in nature, aided by one of the largest international hiking corporations
In the heart of Britain's wilderness, the AKA charity is making a significant impact, helping city-dwellers from all walks of life reconnect with nature. Their latest adventure took place on the towering peak of Ben Nevis, the UK's tallest mountain.
On a windy day, an AKA group, led by experts Jim Bunting and Andy Reeve, braved the rocky paths and violent winds of Ben Nevis. The charity's mission, inspired by a former colleague who passed away on a hike, is to open the eyes of urbanites to the benefits of spending time in nature.
The AKA community is not just about hiking; it's about fostering friendships and letting go of stress in the wilderness. Anton, a member of AKA, emphasised the importance of human connections, stating, "once you remove barriers, you realise that everyone's the same."
The charity also provides guidance and transport to help eager trekkers get to the countryside for regular community hikes and other outdoor activities. For those who might face financial barriers or lack of transportation, AKA is a sanctuary, offering an opportunity to experience the great outdoors.
Remote areas like the Scottish Highlands have become a haven for people escaping everyday life in a post-COVID world. The conditions at the summit of Ben Nevis are unforgiving, with temperatures below freezing and blistering 50mph winds. Despite these challenges, the AKA hike was a success, with many members summiting the mountain.
The AKA members were equipped with insulating and waterproof gear from Helly Hansen, ensuring they were well-prepared for the harsh conditions. The writer, during the hike, found the Verglas Tur 2.0 trousers particularly useful, as they have a thigh zip for cooling off during strenuous sections. The Ascender Mid Helly Tech hiking boots were comfortable and surprisingly flexible, despite being heavy-duty hiking boots.
The charity's efforts extend beyond the physical challenge of hiking. A 2024 survey from Helly Hansen found that 37% of participants saw improvements to their mental well-being after spending time in nature. The AKA community is a testament to this, providing a supportive environment where people can find solace and connection in the wilderness.
Even in the face of adversity, the AKA charity continues to break down barriers and promote equal access to nature. With the help of trained guides like Jim Bunting and Mountain rescue dog Abhaiin, the charity is making a real difference in people's lives, one hike at a time.
The AKA charity's mission, inspired by a former colleague, extends beyond physical health-and-exercise and fitness-and-exercise, reaching mental-health and well-being. During their Ben Nevis adventure, participants experienced a significant improvement in their mental well-being. Beyond hiking, the AKA community fosters friendships, promoting human connections that transcend barriers. The charity also equips members with necessary gear, like Helly Hansen's Verglas Tur 2.0 trousers and Ascender Mid Helly Tech hiking boots, to ensure they are well-prepared for outdoor-living. In a post-COVID world, the Scottish Highlands serves as a lifestyle choice for city-dwellers seeking a change, offering an escape from everyday life. The AKA charity continues to make a difference, breaking down barriers and promoting equal access to nature, facilitating travel and activities in the great outdoors for all.
