As the warm weather sets in, Holy Cross Ministries’ Safe Steps: Hikes for a Healthy Life events are returning, following a successful first year.
Now an annual tradition, the series of hiking events were created by the group’s counseling department in hopes of supporting mental health by connecting participants to nature and new activities. The events were inspired by direct community feedback showing an interest in more outdoor activities.
After last year’s success, two community hikes are planned this year — one on May 31 at 12 p.m. on the McPolin Farm Nature Trail, and another on June 28, with the location to be determined. Registration is now open for both.
Participants, whether children, youth or adults, will have the opportunity to de-stress, clear their minds and take advantage of the beautiful trails Park City has to offer. Attendees will be provided with a snack and lunch, plus anyone over the age of 11 will receive a $15 gift card.
All the hiking guides are bilingual, so instructions are given in both languages, said Rodrigo Coloma, a social worker and community needs analyst at Holy Cross Ministries.
“While Holy Cross primarily works with the Latino community, we don’t turn anyone away,” he said, explaining that last years large turnout of over 100 total participants drew both Spanish and English language users. “Language barriers, especially for older adults, can prevent people from joining activities. So we typically divide the group by age: adults usually prefer a Spanish-speaking guide, and youth prefer English.”
The idea of the event is to pair each hike with practical learning — this year, focusing on mental health techniques like breathwork and meditation.
“Last year we focused a lot on direct prevention of alcohol and drug use, with education about how drugs are classified and their effects on physical and mental health,” said Coloma. “This year, the hikes are much more centered around mental health. We’ll talk about emotional regulation and identifying emotions.”
Coloma explained that the event will provide tools to both youth and families on how they can improve their mental health and communication.
“We want to take advantage of the natural setting to disconnect from social media and reconnect with nature and ourselves,” said Coloma.
Along the hikes, they may guide short meditations — practices typically reserved for clinical settings between therapist and client — brought into a natural, group-based environment, added Coloma.
The counseling department’s goal with these events is to help people realize the importance of identifying their feelings. Coloma emphasized that nature helps do that, to become aware of both surroundings and feelings, he said.
As Holy Cross Ministries celebrates 30 years of service to the community, they continue their efforts to reach underserved populations and people in need through their education, health, mental health and legal immigration programs.
The continuation of each of their programs comes through direct outreach and feedback that allows them to better understand the needs of the community.
Coloma said a survey conducted last December showed participants were very satisfied and eager to attend more events. He added that seeing attendees at other community events reflects a desire to stay involved. When people feel seen and that an activity was designed with them in mind, they are more likely to participate, he said.
These activities also aim to strengthen the family core as families need opportunities to spend time together, said Coloma.
“Park City offers a beautiful natural environment, and we want people to enjoy it — connect with nature and themselves. Slowing down helps reduce anxiety and improves how we relate to ourselves and others. We want families to grow closer through these shared experiences,” he said.
For more about Holy Cross Ministries, visit hcmutah.org. The direct link to sign up for the hiking events is forms.office.com/r/XbQcB0z2CU.