Beyond the Mat

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‘Alicia Gallarzo, a former gymnast from Los Angeles, shares her journey from rigorous training to finding community and connection in hiking and backpacking. Her outdoor adventures taught her the value of vulnerability and support, fuelling her passion for environmental advocacy. Committed to sustainability and conservation, Alicia emphasizes the importance of community, education, and honouring Indigenous histories, inspiring others to embrace and protect the natural world.’

Background

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I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, where I grew up in a life deeply rooted in discipline and dedication. From the age of four, I was immersed in the world of gymnastics, a commitment that continued until I was 22 years old. My daily routine was a rigorous one—school, then straight to the gym for hours of practice, repeating that cycle 5 days a week.

Gymnastics wasn’t just a sport for me; it was my entire life. The experience taught me many life lessons and shaped who I am today both good and bad –some could argue, which is a whole other topic we could get into, but the gymnastics culture ultimately has been foundational in everything I’ve pursued since.

Once I retired a long break was needed and I wasn’t looking to stay in the “athletic space” I was ready to figure out who I was without it. A couple years after I unexpectedly got introduced to hiking and backpacking. I quickly realized it was a whole different type of challenge and I was hooked.

How has hiking and backpacking helped you build connections with others? Share an example of a meaningful encounter you've had while hiking. 

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Hiking and backpacking have helped me build connections in more ways than I can count. Not only do you get to meet new people from all walks of life, but it allows one to truly connect with others on a deeper more personal level. It creates this space where you can just ‘be’— be vulnerable, be authentic, be raw, to be in awe or to be in sorrow. To experience the feeling of raw emotion, or to simply share moments of silence with someone else.

It’s an experience that’s hard to put into words, but it fosters connections that are so genuine and real. There’s something about enduring the elements together—carrying everything you need on your back, navigating rugged terrain, and sitting around a campfire at night—that brings people closer in ways that everyday life just doesn’t.

One of the most meaningful encounters I’ve had actually happened during my first time camping by myself. I had joined an outdoor group for a movie night campout, and in true beginner fashion, I brought a massive six-person tent I found in my dad’s garage. I didn’t realize just how big this tent was until I got there, right before sunset, and quickly realized I had no idea how to set it up.

It started getting dark, and I was really struggling. I didn’t know anyone in the group and, being a bit shy at the time, I was too nervous to ask for help. But here’s the thing about the outdoor community—they’re there to support you, even when you don’t ask. Before I knew it, someone from the group came over to help me. Then a few others joined in, and in no time, my giant tent was set up and ready. I didn’t have to ask; they just saw someone who needed a hand and jumped in to help.

That moment has stuck with me all these years later. It was a perfect example of how the outdoor community is about more than just shared adventures. It’s about support, kindness, and coming together to help one another. It showed me that no matter how intimidating something might seem, you’re never really alone out there.

What are some of the challenges you've faced while hiking or backpacking, and how did you overcome them? 

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Hiking and backpacking definitely come with their fair share of challenges, both physically and emotionally. Physically, it can push your body to its limits—whether it’s dealing with steep climbs, navigating tough terrain, or managing the effects of altitude. There’s also the challenge of staying prepared for unexpected situations like changing weather, injuries, or even getting off-trail. And, of course, there’s always the mental side—doubting your abilities, questioning if you can make it through a tough section, or feeling overwhelmed when things don’t go as planned.

But overcoming these challenges is where the real growth happens. For me, one of the biggest reasons I’ve been able to push through is having a supportive community by my side. Whether it’s fellow hikers, backpacking partners, or even people I’ve just met on the trail, having others there to encourage you, keep you motivated, and even help you make those tough decisions in unexpected situations makes all the difference.

For example, there have been times when I’ve doubted whether I could finish a hike because of fatigue or a difficult stretch, but having someone there to believe in me and say, ‘You’ve got this,’ has been a game changer. It’s not just about physical strength, but the emotional support and camaraderie that come from the people around you. They’re there to keep you safe, push you when you need it, and remind you that you’re capable of so much more than you think. 

Then there are situations where it’s just you, your thoughts, and nature. Nature will be the one to push you because when you’re out there in the middle of the wilderness you have no other option but to keep going. It sometimes becomes a matter of life or death –or at least sometimes it feels that way, in those situations where no one is there to push you it forces you to dig deep and believe in yourself, push yourself, trust yourself, and be proud of yourself.  At the end of the day, those challenges become lessons that strengthen you as a hiker and as a person.

What are some of your favourite places to hike or backpack, and why? 

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It's hard to choose a favorite because California offers such a rich diversity of landscapes but anywhere that has ancient redwoods and sequoias is always a favorite! Most of my hiking and backpacking has been here, and I’ve fallen in love with both the towering forests and the breathtaking coastlines. Yosemite is, of course, a classic—there's something awe-inspiring about the sheer granite cliffs and roaring waterfalls. Hiking in the Eastern Sierras always offers a sense of vastness and serenity that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon are places that hold a special place in my heart as well, The Lost Coast, where I had my first-ever backpacking trip, that’s where my backpacking journey began and it will always be a special memory.  I do plan to explore trails outside of California and even beyond the U.S. soon, and I imagine choosing a favorite will only get harder as I discover new landscapes and adventures.

What are some of the environmental issues that concern you the most?

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There are quite a few environmental issues that really concern me. One of the biggest is consumerism and the cycle of fast fashion and fast furniture. These industries rely on unsustainable materials, unethical sourcing, and overproduction, which all contribute to massive amounts of waste. The ‘throwaway culture’ that’s become so common leads to products being used for a short time and then quickly discarded, adding to landfills and pollution.

Pollution, both in our oceans and air, is another issue that weighs on me. From plastic waste in the oceans harming marine life to the carbon emissions polluting our atmosphere, the long-term damage is immense. Deforestation and mining are equally alarming. The destruction of forests or any land for that matter, not only impacts biodiversity but also contributes to climate change, as forests act as vital carbon sinks. Mining practices, especially for materials used in modern technologies, can leave lasting scars on landscapes, disrupt ecosystems, and displace people.

A specific example is the uranium mining near the Grand Canyon, the Pinyo Plain Mine, located within the boundaries of Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni National Monument. This mine poses a serious threat to the environment and health of the local Indigenous communities, and all those in the surrounding areas who rely on the land and water. The destruction of such a significant and sacred area is heartbreaking, and it serves as a reminder of the larger issue of land destruction for profit.

These issues are all interconnected, and what worries me the most is how deeply embedded they are in our modern way of living. But I truly believe that with more education, mindfulness, and collective action, we can start shifting toward more sustainable practices.

How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your daily life? 

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I incorporate sustainable practices into my daily life through education, mindfulness, and conscious action. It all starts with being aware of my habits and consumption patterns. I’ve spent time learning about zero waste and sustainable living, and I’ve made a conscious commitment to reduce my environmental footprint. For me, the journey began with small, actionable steps—choosing to replace everyday essentials with more sustainable alternatives once they ran out. Over time, these small changes grew into larger lifestyle shifts.

One of the most impactful areas has been reducing my plastic use and finding reusable alternatives. I actively seek ways to cut down on waste. Another key part of my approach has been stepping away from the culture of overconsumption, fast fashion, and impulse buying that society often encourages. Instead, I focus on thoughtful consumption, prioritizing quality, longevity, and ethical sourcing and labor..

Beyond personal action, I believe in sharing what I’ve learned to raise awareness around sustainable living. I regularly share these practices and use my platform to inspire others to start their own sustainability journey. It’s all about starting small, growing from there, and realizing that every step toward sustainability counts.

Tell me about a time when you took action to protect or restore the environment. What motivated you to act? 

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I’ve had several experiences in volunteering with different organizations to protect and restoring the environment. These roles include maintaining and enhancing trails, participating in habitat restoration, and caring for native plants to preserve natural areas. What motivates me to act is community and the belief in taking care of the place we all share—our home, the Earth. It’s a chance to give back to nature while working alongside an amazing community of people. It’s about learning, respecting, and taking care of the environment in a meaningful way. 

The lessons and growth I receive from taking action to protect and restore the environment also motivate me. The hands-on experience teaches me many skills and shows me how small actions can have a long-term positive impact. Another action I take is signing environmental petitions and encouraging others to use their political voices, too. The more we raise awareness and get people informed, the more we can take collective action to protect and restore our home.

What are some ways you think we can encourage more people to become involved in conservation and restoration work? 

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One of the best ways to get more people involved in conservation and restoration work is by making it accessible and showing how rewarding it can be! A lot of people care about the environment but might not know where to start, so offering easy, local opportunities—like community cleanups, tree plantings, or volunteering at nature reserves—can help them take that first step.

Education is key, too. When people understand the impact they can have, they’re more likely to get involved. Sharing stories, whether it’s through social media, local events, or even schools, can inspire others. It’s important to make it fun and rewarding, showing people that you don’t have to be an expert to make a difference.

Another big factor is making people feel like part of a community. When they see others getting involved and working together, it creates a ripple effect. Highlighting the social side of conservation—like meeting new people and connecting with nature—can really draw people in. And of course, encouraging more political engagement is crucial. Signing petitions, supporting environmentally conscious policies, and educating people on how their voice can lead to bigger, collective action are all great ways to inspire change.

What are some of the most interesting things you've learned about the natural world through your outdoor experiences? 

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One of the most fascinating things I’ve learned through my outdoor experiences is how interconnected everything in the natural world is—and that includes us. We’re not separate from the environment; we’re a part of it. Nature has these incredible systems that work together in perfect balance. 

What are your plans for continuing to learn and grow your knowledge about the natural world? 

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My plans for continuing to learn and grow my knowledge about the natural world involve a mix of education, experience, and collaboration. I want to keep reading books and taking courses that dive deeper into environmental topics. But beyond that, I think it’s even more important to engage in conversations with others—asking questions, discussing new ideas, and learning from different perspectives. Collaboration is also key. There’s so much to gain from working alongside people who share the same passion for nature, whether it’s through conservation efforts, volunteering, or outdoor adventures.

Of course, the best way to grow my knowledge is by continuing to experience the natural world firsthand. Spending time hiking, camping, and exploring new ecosystems teaches me things that stick with you. Nature is the best classroom, and each adventure adds a new layer of understanding to how everything is connected.  I love attending local outdoor events. They’re a great way to connect with like-minded people, learn new things, and get inspired by others’ experiences. Nature has a way of revealing something new every time. I plan to keep blending what I learn from books, outdoor events, and firsthand experiences—there’s always more to discover.

How do you think understanding the history of the land, including the history of indigenous communities, enriches your outdoor experiences?

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Understanding the history of the land, especially the history of Indigenous communities, really deepens my connection to the places I explore. It grounds me in a way that goes beyond just enjoying the beauty of nature. When I’m out hiking or backpacking, knowing the stories of the people who have lived on and cared for the land for generations fills me with a sense of gratitude and appreciation. It makes me realize that this land has a history far older than I am, and that I’m just a small part of its ongoing story.

It also gives me a deeper appreciation for Indigenous cultures and their relationship with the environment. Learning about their ways of living in harmony with nature has taught me so much—not just about the land itself, but also about how to approach the natural world with respect and care. It connects me spiritually to the land, reminding me that we aren’t separate from it; we are a part of it. By recognizing and supporting Indigenous communities, I feel like I’m contributing to the broader effort to protect these lands and honor the people who have always been its stewards.

Ultimately, understanding this history enriches my outdoor experiences by adding layers of meaning and significance. It’s not just about the physical act of being in nature, but about honoring the legacy of those who came before and learning from their wisdom.

Words of Wisdom: 

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Ask a lot of questions and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

To continue following our explorers Alicia’s journey or simply want to reach out and say Hi, you can connect with them on the following accounts:

Instagram:

@leecegal

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