Georgia
Rosanna Rostad
Co-Head Dame
Georgia Chapter
Greetings!
In 2016, not too long after I’d moved to Georgia, I found Trail Dames (totally by accident) while walking down my street. I’d passed a little blue Subaru (covered in bumper stickers) and just happened to notice one said Trail Dames and I thought, “Trail Dames? Hmmm. What the heck are Trail Dames?? I wonder what they’re all about?” Unbeknownst to me at the time, that blue Subaru was owned by Trail Dames Founder Mud Butt herself! A couple of months later, looking for a group to hike with on Meetup, I ran into that intriguing name again, looked up their official website…and joined the GA Chapter. After a hike or two I knew I’d found what I was looking for: a friendly, supportive group of women I could hike with as I was regaining my physical strength. Gentle hikes led to Regular hikes and finally to Dynamic hikes, and I loved every one. A year or so later I decided to become a Hike Leader and since then have led a myriad of hikes.
Something I’ve said more than once is that I’ve never regretted a single hike I’ve ever been on. Even when I’ve fallen, and even when I’ve bonked! And that’s because being out in nature, out on a trail, is my happy place. Facilitating events so others can come to appreciate nature while simultaneously empowering them…well, that’s even better!
Rosanna aka “Mama Bear”
Liz Robbins
Co-Head Dame
Georgia Chapter
Hey All! This is Liz, Rosanna's quiet counterpart. I joined TrailDames in July 2019, about a year after moving to Georgia from Michigan. Before coming to Georgia I had hiked a bit, even did some long backpacking trips on Isle Royale and on the White Mountain section of the AT. However, I did not have the tremendous opportunities to explore that are offered by this beautiful area of the country. We also didn't have many hills, let alone mountains- that was tough getting used to. After moving to North Georgia, I hiked solo at first then later discovered several hiking groups on Meetup. Of all the groups I hiked with, I found the Dames to be the most inclusive and friendly. Since joining the Dames I have seen so much beauty, had quite a few adventures, and met many wonderful ladies.
A couple of years ago I decided to volunteer to be a hike leader. I wanted to do what I could to support the Dames and share the adventure with current and future Dames. One of our greatest strengths is all the Leaders willing to give their time and hearts to the group. It allows us to provide many different opportunities to get out there and enjoy nature and companionship. I encourage anyone, including new members, to consider taking that step.
I hope to help Rosanna keep the Trail Dames growing and strong into the future. With everyone's input, support, and guidance we can continue to make sure we can continue to make new memories together.
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