Introducing: The HS Hiking Club!

Towards the end of 2024, I was approached with the opportunity to help develop a club dedicated to hiking and outdoor exploration. At first, I was skeptical - there had never been a club at our school that revolved around off-campus activities. Organization, communication, and risk assessment all seemed like a nightmare. However, as someone who is always looking for new experiences, I decided to take the leap and see where it led me.

The first hike took place in late January, in Kamakura. At that point, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would students actually enjoy the experience? Would we be able to organize everything smoothly? But as soon as we started walking, my doubts quickly faded. What struck me most was the passion and enthusiasm shared by our group. It wasn’t just about walking through nature - it was about connecting, bonding, and appreciating the outdoors together. Seeing everyone engage with the environment and each other in such an organic way made me realize that what I was doing was more than just organizing hikes. I was helping create a fun and passionate community.

The experience of our first hike was surreal. We trekked through the lush trails of Kamakura, taking in the beautiful scenery, the crisp winter air, and the sounds of nature. At one point, we reached a scenic overlook where we could see the ocean stretching far into the horizon. It was a moment of pure peace—something that I had rarely experienced in my usual routine of schoolwork and city life. That moment cemented my belief in the club’s purpose: to give students a break from their everyday stresses and immerse them in something refreshing and meaningful.

Since that first hike, the HS Hiking Club has continued to grow. While we are still in the early stages, we already have a dedicated group of members who are eager to explore new trails but are always searching for more people. Organizing hikes has become easier as we’ve developed better communication and planning methods. We now have a structured system in place, including safety measures, meeting points, and planned routes. Each hike brings something new - a different challenge, a unique landscape, and opportunities to deepen friendships.

Looking ahead, we have ambitious goals for the club. We plan to expand our hikes to more locations, including Mount Takao and Hakone, which offer incredible trails and stunning scenery. Additionally, we want to incorporate elements of environmental awareness and conservation into our outings, ensuring that we respect and protect the places we explore.

For anyone considering joining, I would say: don’t hesitate! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who has never set foot on a trail before, the HS Hiking Club welcomes all students who are looking for adventure, relaxation, and connection. It’s more than just hiking - it’s about building a community, discovering new places, and creating memories that will last beyond high school!

“Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.” — Anthony J. D'Angelo