Hello everyone. I am Alexandra, and I moved to the Triangle with my family from Illinois in 2021. I am originally from Germany and have lived in the USA for 11 years. Being from Germany, I grew up in the woods, and hiking was always part of my life! I love being outdoors, and I try to teach my kids to appreciate the outdoors as much as I do. Hiking in the triangle with this group is my therapy and helps me get less homesick since the NC trails remind me a lot of Germany!

*Alex speaks French and German.

Hello! I'm Alley Buscemi, and I live in North Raleigh. I'm a hike leader and run our club’s Instagram account (give us a follow @womenofthetrianglehikingclub !). I am a full-time Realtor, but I like to unwind in the woods. I love WOTTHC because it fills so many cups simultaneously- social, fitness, and time in nature. I became a hike leader to share what I love about this region- all the trails in our backyards. My love for the outdoors blossomed during college in Boulder, Colorado. We hiked, camped, and skied every week. I enjoy tedious crafts like needlepoint, painting, cooking (and eating!), and hanging with my family (I have two wild toddler boys!). I look forward to seeing you on the trails.

Hi, hiking friends! I’m Amber. I’ve lived in North Carolina my entire life, and one thing that has always kept me here is how beautiful our state is. I was always an outdoorsy kid, but my love for hiking grew when I graduated college and started working. I was determined there was more to life than just sitting at a desk all day - insert hiking! Hiking has always been my favorite activity to help me remember the bigger picture of this crazy life we live in. It helped me see the big beautiful world we are a part of. There isn’t a hike that goes by that doesn’t bring a smile to my face. I became a hike leader because I want to help share my love and joy of hiking with anyone interested - hiking is always more fun with friends!

I am looking forward to seeing you on the trails!

Hi friends! I’m Amelia. I grew up in the mountains of Virginia and moved to the Triangle in 2018. I started hiking as a young child with my grandfather while he was training for his Appalachian Trail thru-hike. He created a monster! If I’m not out hiking, I’m horseback riding, taking care of horses, kayaking, paddle boarding, reading, crocheting, or playing video or board games. I’m also a total nerd! I love this club and am so excited to help other women develop a love for the outdoors. See you on the trails!

Hi! I'm Amy Beth, and I live with my family in Saxapahaw, a tiny village with a big heart nestled on the banks of the Haw River. I'm a multi-passionate educator, leadership trainer, social wellness coach, outdoor enthusiast, and maker of mostly utilitarian things. I started hiking as a child with my dad and grandma, and I continued into adulthood because it helps me stay centered, connects me to sights and sounds that make my heart soar, and reminds me that I'm just a tiny part of a big, beautiful universe. I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of nature and community and long joked that I'd love nothing more than to be a professional people walker. So I joined WOTHCC over a year ago to meet new people and explore new terrain, and it was LOVE at first hike! I became a Hike Leader to support WOTHCC's gorgeous mission to create and hold space for women to connect with the outdoors, discover their superpowers, and lift each other up to new heights! I'm excited to meet and walk alongside each one of you! Happy trails!

Hi everyone! I’m Ana, and I’m excited to be able to be a part of such an incredible organization. I’m originally from the northeast, but NC is the 5th state I’ve lived in- dare I say I finally found home! I am a nationally certified behavior consultant and professional dog trainer, going on my 12th year. My own dog (Athena, or “Pig” I call her most often) is absolutely my best friend. We are also avid backpackers and love to lead first-timers out into the wilderness on extended trips. Other than the obvious fact that I love to hike, I also truly enjoy the opportunity to empower women to be more confident and independent. Learning about people and what makes them who they are is one of my favorite things in the world, so feel free to chat with me! We have a lot to learn from each other.

Hey y'all! I’m Aswathy, and I relocated to the Durham area in 2021 for work. I'm thrilled to be part of WOTTHC—a community that combines my love of nature with my passion for empowering women through outdoor wellness

My motivation to volunteer with this incredible team comes from a strong belief in the power of nature—not only to strengthen our bodies but also to ground our minds. For me, hiking isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with ourselves, and appreciating the journey. Spending time outdoors has brought me inner strength and mindfulness, and I’m excited to help others experience the same.

There’s something truly special about shared experiences on the trail, and I’m committed to planning events that spark joy, foster connections, and inspire wellness. I hope to make each outing more than just a hike—a journey of growth, empowerment, and community.

Outside of hiking, I love curling up with a good book and my favorite cup of coffee or chai. I’m looking forward to exploring new trails, building meaningful connections, and making every event a chance for us all to grow, share, and embrace the beauty of the outdoors together. Let’s lace up, step out, and enjoy every moment along the way!

Howdy, ya'll. I'm Cara. A rare native of North Carolina, one of my fondest childhood memories was hiking to the top of Hanging Rock. Since those early days, I've lived and worked throughout the Triangle and spent much of my adult life on the West Coast in Seattle, WA, and the San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Today, I call Cary home and am considered a park-n-rec geek. I became a hike leader because I enjoy bringing women together to learn from and laugh with one another. A long walk through the woods, along the water, or up a rocky incline is truly medicinal. If you're new to NC, welcome!

I look forward to meeting you.

Hi, I’m Bryn! I grew up in Michigan, but I’ve spent the last five years living around the world before landing in the Triangle in 2023. I’ve always loved being outside, but my true and deep love for hiking was cemented when I lived in South Korea for a year. It has the most incredible and accessible mountains to hike—I highly recommend a visit! Hiking, for me, is about connecting with nature, finding peace in the rhythm of the trail, and appreciating the simple joys that come with being outdoors. Whether it’s the fresh air, the excitement of exploring new trails, or the chance for deep conversations with fellow hikers and friends. When I’m not on the trails, I enjoy crafting, reading in the shade of a tree, painting, or sipping a warm beverage on a chilly day. The trails of North Carolina have quickly become some of my favorite places to be, I can’t wait to see you all out there!

My name is Erin! I’m a 26 year old research coordinator at Duke who moved from Illinois to the triangle in June 2021. I found the hiking club in the beginning of 2023 and quickly realized I found some thing I wanted to be a part of! I joined and fell in love with the purpose and mission of the club, and knew I wanted to give back to the club in someway. That is why I became a hike leader. I wanted to become a resource for women in the club and be someone that women can feel comfortable around and hopefully can become a support person for them as well!!

If I’m not hitting the trails, I’m running road races, reading a new book, or finding a new restaurant to try :) Excited to see you soon and happy trails!!

Hey y’all! I’m Grace, a Triangle native working in nonprofit communications from my home office in Chapel Hill. I’ve been camping, paddling, biking, and hitting the trails with my family all my life, but I found a true passion for road walking and hiking while in college: exploring Raleigh’s extensive greenway and trail systems for hours on end always made for a perfect study break! I love the physical challenges, mental health benefits, and adventure-ready mindset that come with hiking, and it’s been awesome to connect with other women who feel the same way through this club. I’m excited to contribute to our club community as a hike leader, offering hikes in the Chapel Hill/Carrboro/Hillsborough area. Can’t wait to smile our way through the miles together – happy trails!

Hey there, I’m Gwendolyn (not Gwen)! I fell in love with hiking a few years back, and it has truly been the best thing. Hiking is a way to clear my head, get outside, and appreciate nature. In the years that I’ve hiked, I have seen some pretty epic views across many states, and I cannot wait to see more!

I grew up in South Carolina and lived there for all of my life, until my awesome dog (Cooper Johnson, 10 year old mixed breed pupper) and I moved in with my boyfriend in Pikeville, NC during the fall of 2023. While I work remotely the majority of the time, I do head over to the office for my corporate accounting job in Durham a few times a week.

I’ve searched for “my people”, you know, the group of friends and people that make you feel at home and comfortable? Yeah, those people. Well, I’ve searched for a while, and in 2024, I found WOTTHC, and knew immediately, I found my people. I am thrilled to be a part of an organization that accepts you for exactly who you are, that encourages you to be who you want to be, and that supports you. I found my people, and I hope you find that you can say the same.

Heyyyyyy, Club, I'm Hannah Mack! When I'm not hiking, I spend my time running or coaching others on how to run, traveling, and playing board games. I've been a part of this amazing community since the Fall of 2022. Though I've lived in NC most of my life, adventure called in 2021 and I did a year of RV life, traveling the east coast before settling in VA for a short time while I figured out what was next! I realized that I really missed NC, so I decided to move to Durham, somewhere familiar, yet new + exciting!


I joined the club shortly after, but I was what I call a "lurker" in the group for a few months. When I finally went on my first hike after the craziness of the holidays, I was hooked! Being a part of a community where other women want to be active, be outdoors, and make real friendships has brightened my life immensely. And that's why I wanted to be a hike leader. Whether it's your first hike or your fiftieth, it's my goal to make you feel like you belong and have fun!

Hi everyone! My name is Jen, and I live in Holly Springs with my boyfriend and my pets. I'm originally from Nova Scotia, Canada, but I've been in North Carolina for almost 14 years. I grew up being drawn to nature and have been hiking and camping since I was young. Covid reignited my desire and need to be outside for my physical and mental health. I found WOTTHC just after it was founded, and I am the first hike leader they brought on board! I also love to craft, read, play video games, and lift weights when I'm not outside. I'm pretty introverted, but I love to meet people through hiking. I can't wait to meet you all on the trails!

Hey y’all, it’s me, Joanna! I originally joined the club to get back into nature and challenge myself to beat my social anxiety. I’ve stayed because of the inspiring and encouraging women I get to meet at each hike and event! When I am not on the trails you can find me playing lots and lots of board games or deep in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. I live in Garner with my two cats Finnegan and Pipsqueak who love to attack my yarn while I’m cozily working on my crochet. I am a sales and marketing manager within the horticulture industry so prepare yourself for some fun plant facts and IDs while on a hike with me! Hope to see you on the trails soon!

Explorer by nature, born and raised in Kazakhstan, I lived in 3 different countries and two states (MA, FL) before making North Carolina our home in 2021. My favorite thing is discovering new places and sharing adventures with my friends and family. I found this club in January 2022; it was a love-at-first hike! From the very beginning, I felt welcomed, supported, and accepted. So I became a hike leader in hopes that one day I can make other women feel the same way. I love all kinds of hikes, from slower-paced (slow down to appreciate nature and/or catch your breath) to faster, more challenging hikes (let’s see what our body can do). When I’m not hiking with the club, I’m venturing out to explore our beautiful state or going on a long bike trip along Neuse River Trail with my teenage daughter.

Please don’t hesitate to let me know what I can do to help you enjoy one of our hikes!

Hey, I’m Leksi, and I’m originally from Utah. I joined WOTTHC in the Summer of 2021. I chose to be a hike leader because I feel most alive in the mountains. I love being in the woods and sharing experiences in nature with others. It’s a great opportunity to meet people with shared interests from all different walks of life. I learn so much from the individuals I get the chance to hike with.

When I’m not wandering trails with my faithful Vizsla companion, I enjoy reading, rollerskating, playing soccer, browsing antique stores, and taking naps. I’m also passionate about backpacking, weekend road trips, and finding the best snacks this planet has to offer.

*Leksi is fluent in Spanish.

Lindsey is a hiker, climber, writer, reader, and passionate Tar Heel fan. She joined WOTTHC upon moving to Raleigh in March and has been hooked on hiking ever since. When she isn't on the trail, she enjoys crocheting, going to the Farmer's Market, or catching a concert with friends. Ask her about backpacking in Virginia and her involvement with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy!

Hey all! I’m Lori. Originally from Massachusetts, I’ve lived in NC off and on for 8 years or so. I’ve been hiking and outdoorsy as long as I can remember, and got super into backpacking when we lived overseas. That enthusiasm for carrying my whole life on my back carried over when we returned to NC, even though there were some fun new challenges being back in the eastern US (um hi, bears?! lol)

Coming back to NC in 2019, I was hoping to find a community of fellow outdoorsy girls and WOTTHC checked that box completely! I love the positivity, safety, and encouragement I’ve felt on every hike I’ve done with WOTTHC, and I became a hike leader to help continue the wonderful culture the club has created. I truly believe the outdoors are for everyone and love to share my happy place with new friends!

When I’m not hiking, I’m hanging out with my husband and our furbabies, planning a trip, or catching up on the myriad TV shows that I’m behind on. Looking forward to seeing you on a hike soon!

Hi everyone! I’m Marie. I am originally from central Massachusetts and now live in North Raleigh with my family. I discovered the WOTTHC during the pandemic and am so thankful to have found this community! I have been consistently amazed by the inspiring women I’ve met and how supportive members are of one another.

Besides hiking, I also enjoy gardening, reading (memoirs are my favorite), exercising, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends.

I start my hikes with a round of brief introductions and a goal for members to find commonality and get to know one another during the hike. I hope to see you on the trail!

Hi!! Hiker dirtbag Mel here! Shortly after Kitty started the club, I moved down to the triangle from NJ and loved the sense of community and sisterhood it brought to my life. I became a hike leader soon after, wanting to share my love of the outdoors and nature with my fellow hikers. So you can catch me on the trail munching on some PopTarts and spinning in circles, making sure I took the right turn! I hope to see y’all out there!

Hello my hiking friends! I am Mila and I love to be outside, especially in the company of other outdoor loving women. Hiking is my favorite pass time but when I am not on the trail, I work as an executive recruiter, I am a mom of a bunch of teenage boys and 3 pups. I love to travel, read, bake and bring friends together. I look forward to seeing you on a hike soon!

Hey, you found us! Welcome 😊

I’m Sanchia, a NC resident originally from Australia. I love to see women take time for themselves, make new friends, and reap all the health benefits of shinrin-yoku. I love spending time with my family, hiking (surprise!), and anything related to art, plants, food, holistic health, and travel. I am grateful to be a part of the WOTTHC community and hope my ‘be prepared’ mentality will serve us all well on our adventures.

See you at the trailhead!

Hi! I am Scarlet! I am originally from the suburbs of Washington, DC. We moved to NC four years ago; since then, my family and I have gotten into hiking. I have three children and way too many pets that I adore! I have been a part of WOTTHC for a little over a year, and I love getting out into the woods and exploring new areas while meeting new friends. I became a hike leader to help share my love of the trails with others while also pushing myself to experience something new and challenging! I can't wait to share the trails with you!

*Scarlet is fluent in ASL