In a world where outdoor adventures are often seen as a young person’s game, Bonnie Sackett stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance at any age. At 71, Bonnie is an avid hiker and backpacker who continues to inspire women, particularly those over 50, to embrace the outdoors with confidence.
Women over 50 are often marginalized in the outdoor community, where much of the media and advertising tend to focus on younger individuals. This age group is frequently underrepresented, both in terms of visibility and the availability of gear and resources tailored to their needs. Outdoor spaces can sometimes feel unwelcoming or inaccessible for older women, who may not see themselves reflected in mainstream images of adventurers.
However, women over 50 bring immense strength, resilience, and life experience to the trail. By creating inclusive spaces and providing opportunities for them to engage in outdoor activities, we not only challenge these stereotypes but also empower a vibrant and capable community to enjoy the benefits of nature at any age.
Bonnie Sackett, through her own hiking and backpacking journey, is a shining example of how women over 50 can thrive in the outdoors when given the chance.
A Lifelong Connection to Nature
Bonnie’s love for hiking was cultivated early in her life. Growing up just north of New York City, her parents made sure she was exposed to nature, frequently taking family trips to hike in New Hampshire and Vermont. One of her most vivid memories includes time spent on Lake Winnipesaukee, where hiking, picnics, and educational trips to visitor centers were common. Hiking became as natural to her as skiing, which she also learned at a young age.
Even as an adult, Bonnie continued to hike, expanding her experiences when she moved to Utah in the 1970s. Her love for the outdoors flourished as she discovered the beauty of the Wasatch Mountains and began skiing and hiking year-round. A particularly memorable experience was a six-week camping trip with her family, exploring national parks across the Southwest, through California, and up to Montana.
Embracing New Challenges in Backpacking
Though Bonnie had been a lifelong hiker, backpacking wasn’t something she took on until her 20s when she first arrived in Utah. Her first backpacking trip was to the Grand Canyon, a rigorous, nearly three-week adventure that challenged her physically and mentally. Since then, she has backpacked regularly, including memorable treks in Zion National Park and the remote wilderness areas of Yellowstone.
Bonnie’s trips aren’t always easy. She often jokes about the “Type 2 fun” where the experience is tough in the moment but rewarding in hindsight. During one particularly grueling backpacking trip, she recalls stopping mid-hike to question why she found such difficult treks enjoyable. Yet, when she reached her campsite and looked out at the stunning views, she was reminded exactly why she keeps coming back.
Finding Peace in the Outdoors
For Bonnie, hiking offers more than just physical exercise; it’s a path to mental peace. She speaks fondly of the times when she’s been disconnected from the world, free from cell service, where the only sounds are the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. This connection to nature grounds her and brings her a sense of joy and freedom.
Bonnie’s favorite moments on the trail are often when she stops to take in the view from where she’s come. Her mother instilled in her the importance of pausing to reflect, to breathe in the fresh air, and to appreciate the beauty of the journey.
Staying Active and Healthy Over 50
What’s Bonnie’s secret to staying healthy and active at 71? She credits it to always staying in motion. Whether she’s hiking with friends or taking her dogs for a walk, movement has always been a part of her life. Though she used to be a regular at the gym, swimming a mile a day, these days she finds her exercise on the trail, hiking three to four times a week, often covering eight to ten miles per trek.
Bonnie is also cautious about maintaining her well-being. Despite a few injuries over the years, including two ACL surgeries and a dislocated shoulder, she remains undeterred. Her advice? Keep moving, eat well, and don’t give up on doing what you love.
An Inspiration to Other Women Over 50
Bonnie Sackett isn’t just an accomplished hiker—she’s an inspiration to the many women who hike alongside her. In a world where outdoor advertising and media often focus on younger individuals, Bonnie is a beacon for women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, showing that age is never a barrier to adventure.
Bonnie’s journey continues, whether she’s trekking up the canyons of Zion, navigating remote trails, or planning her next backpacking trip. Her story encourages women everywhere to lace up their boots and hit the trail, proving that it’s never too late to find joy in the great outdoors.
Bonnie’s story reminds us all that adventure has no age limit. We can all find peace, joy, and inspiration on the trail—one step at a time.
If you’re in Utah and would like to join one of our Over 50 hikes, you can find them here.