2025-2026 Schedule
All programs are held at Cox Arboretum MetroPark
October 16, 2025
6:30-8:00 pm
Jessica urton
why we hike – and why we don’t
Jessica is the owner of Trailhead Trader, the founder of the nonprofit Hope Wanders, and an experienced hiking and backpacking guide who has led trips all over the world. Her heart lies in educating people on safely and confidently utilizing the outdoors for self-care and positive community building. With a deep belief in the transformative power of nature, Jessica’s own adventures have taken her to incredible places, including a recent trip to Bolivia where she hiked to over 17,000 feet, explored beautiful glacial lakes, and mountain biked the infamous Death Road.
In her talk, “Why We Hike…and Why We Don’t,” Jessica will take you on a journey that goes beyond the trail. She will delve into the fascinating history of hiking, tracing its evolution from a necessity to a global phenomenon. She’ll also address the modern anxieties that keep people from the outdoors, from the commercialization of gear to the fear generated by social media. Most importantly, she’ll celebrate the profound physical and mental health benefits that make every step a worthwhile adventure.
This is a program for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or simply curious about the benefits of a walk in the park. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the simple, yet profound, act of putting one foot in front of the other.
Biography: Jessica Urton is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and the owner of Trailhead Trader, a local outdoor gear consignment shop. With a deep love for nature and a commitment to community, Jessica has dedicated her life to sharing her passion with others. As a long-time trail volunteer at Caesar Creek State Park, Jessica has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the outdoors. Her experience as a park host and her work as a backpacking and hiking guide for Explorer Chick Adventure have further solidified her belief in the importance of outdoor exploration. Jessica’s proudest accomplishment is her non-profit organization, Hope Wanders, which aims to empower women from difficult life situations through outdoor adventures. By removing barriers and providing opportunities for healing and growth, Jessica is dedicated to making outdoor activities accessible to all. Jessica is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive outdoor community for everyone. She believes that the outdoors offer a healthy and inspiring space for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature and themselves. Join Jessica on this journey of discovery and adventure!
November 6, 2025
6:30-8:00 pm
Matt anderson
Moose, ridges, and lake superior: exploring isle royale national park
Isle Royale isn’t just hard to get to—it feels like stepping into another world. In this talk, Matt Anderson will share the story of his backpacking trip to the island, beginning with a seaplane flight over the vast, cold expanse of Lake Superior and continuing through quiet forests, rugged ridges, and campsites along the water’s edge.
Woven into the journey are stories that make Isle Royale so unique: the glaciers that shaped its landscape, the copper miners who once called it home, and the long-running predator–prey study of the island’s wolves and moose that has fascinated scientists for decades. Matt will also cover the quirks of planning a trip to the island, where transportation is limited, cell service hardly exists, and once you arrive, you are truly on your own.
Whether you are dreaming of your own visit or just curious about one of the most isolated places in the National Park system, you will come away with a deeper appreciation for the history, beauty, and challenges of Isle Royale. Come discover why one of the least-visited National Parks is also one of the most revisited!
Biography: Matt Anderson enjoys hiking, backpacking, kayaking, and biking, as well as reading about other people’s adventures. Originally from the Detroit area, he moved to Dayton in 2006 and has grown to appreciate all the outdoor activities available in such close proximity in the Miami Valley. When he is not outside, he is typically spending time with his family, working on DIY projects, building software, or trying to figure out how to use CalTopo to plan more trips.
