Our Manifesto

Improving mental health through deeper connections to nature and community via walking accountability.

We live in a world of unprecedented digital connection, yet paradoxically, we've become increasingly disconnected from the two things that matter most for our mental wellbeing: the natural world and meaningful human relationships. The simple act of walking—especially outdoors on trails—has been engineered out of our daily lives, with profound consequences for our mental health and sense of belonging.

At Steps, we believe that consistent walking combined with genuine human accountability creates a powerful pathway to mental wellness through dual connection: to nature and to each other. The science is clear: when we walk regularly outdoors and have someone who genuinely cares about our progress, we not only improve our physical health but also restore our fundamental connections to the natural world and our community.

Unfortunately, many people struggle to maintain consistency with outdoor walking despite knowing its benefits. The modern world has disconnected us from the trails, parks, and natural spaces that once provided both physical activity and mental restoration. Technology alone has failed to solve this problem because it lacks the powerful psychological impact of human connection and the healing presence of nature.

This is why Steps exists. We bridge this gap.

Our accountability partners aren't just monitors of your walking goals – they're allies in your journey toward deeper connection with both nature and community. They provide the perfect balance of support and challenge, understanding and encouragement. They become the consistent presence that helps you maintain healthy habits while fostering the human connections that make outdoor experiences more meaningful and sustainable.

We've seen people transform not just their physical health but their entire relationship with the outdoors and their community – reducing anxiety through nature connection, alleviating depression symptoms through consistent movement, and finding renewed purpose through shared commitment to trail stewardship. This happens not through some revolutionary intervention, but through the consistent application of three simple elements: regular outdoor walking, meaningful human accountability, and respect for the natural spaces that heal us.

Whether you're struggling with mental health challenges, feeling isolated in our increasingly digital world, or simply wanting to invest in your long-term wellbeing while supporting trail conservation, we firmly believe that with the right accountability structure and connection to nature, you can establish outdoor walking as a cornerstone habit that supports mental health, builds community, and preserves the trails we all depend on.

This is our promise. This is our purpose. This is why we wake up each morning dedicated to perfecting the art and science of using walking accountability to improve mental health through deeper connections to nature and each other, while supporting the trail organizations that protect these healing spaces.

Join us in creating a world where mental wellbeing is prioritized through nature connection, community is strengthened through shared outdoor experiences, and the simple act of walking becomes a pathway to both personal healing and environmental stewardship.