Helen Wallis
Helen Wallis is a long-distance hiker.
A resident of Australia, she has traveled to other continents to pursue treks that have challenged her as well as well as inspired her.
In her most recent and longer expedition, she completed the Camino de Santiago. This is when Adventure Resumes found her! In a manner that is equal parts uplifting, creative, and admirable, her curations will leave you smiling, feeling nothing short of hopeful, and undoubtedly awe-inspired.
Thank you, Helen, for being open to this March 2025 Athlete of the Month spotlight. We all hope to aspire to your enthusiasm, energy, and persistence!
Instagram: thewalkingtraveller
Email: thewalkingtraveller@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thewalkingtraveller
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH - MARCH 2025
“Even after walking greater distances, that first journey remains my most memorable—it wasn’t just about reaching the end, but about becoming someone who believes in herself. The lessons from that walk continue to guide me, reminding me that I can face any challenge that comes my way. ”
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into hiking?
At nearly 73, hiking has been a lifelong passion of mine. Over the years, I’ve walked across several countries on long-distance trails, drawn to the challenge and beauty of historic routes. Growing up in Queensland, Aust. barefoot and free, I developed a love for adventure and the outdoors—a spirit that continues to fuel my hikes today.
As a mother and grandmother, I’m passionate about inspiring other women, especially older women, to stay active and embrace the outdoors. I believe it is never too late to start a new adventure, and I am committed to sharing that message with others.
Through writing and photography, I capture the beauty of each trail and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. For me, every hike is an opportunity to grow, reflect, and encourage others to explore the world around them.
What inspires of motivates you to stay adventurous?
What motivates me now is the wisdom, experience, and a sense of freedom that comes with age. Having grandchildren has been a big turning point—I want them to understand that age is no barrier to what you can do, where you can go, or the dreams you can still fulfill. Life opens up new possibilities, that I want them to see through my actions, not just my words.
Through my Instagram, I encourage others to step outside their comfort zones, explore new places, and embrace life in all its phases. It’s never too late to start something new or chase a dream you’ve put aside. Adventure has always been a part of me. I spent my childhood roaming the outdoors, exploring nature, and discovering the world around me. Although life changed with marriage and raising children, I always found ways to share my love for exploration with my family. Now, in retirement, that adventurous spirit is stronger than ever. I have more time to travel, try new experiences, and rediscover the curiosity I had as a child—all while inspiring my grandchildren to follow their own paths of discovery.
For me, motivation isn’t about age—it’s about the hunger to keep learning, growing, and pushing myself. No matter where I am in life, I can’t imagine not fulfilling my dreams.
To help inspire any beginners to hiking or seeing the world through a similar framework, do you have any tips?
If you dream of hiking, just take the first step. Start with a walk around your neighbourhood or a local trail. If you're unsure, ask a friend or join a walking club—hikers are friendly and welcoming. All you need is a good pair of shoes, snacks, and weather-appropriate gear. It’s not about speed, but enjoying the journey. Apps like AllTrails can help you find new routes.
Start small, then gradually increase your distance. Keep a journal to document your progress and the moments you cherish. Most importantly, take that first step—your adventure begins now!
What about who or what inspires you?!
I've always been a bit of a self-motivator—someone who will just dive in and give anything a try. But there are certain people who truly inspire me, and their stories come in all shapes and sizes. It’s not just about the ones who walk thousands of miles; it’s also about those who challenge themselves to walk just 5 kilometres. The real inspiration comes from those who rise above their own limiting beliefs and achieve more than they ever thought possible.
I’m particularly inspired by those who overcome significant disabilities. One person who stands out to me is Jenny Woodhouse (@50s.hikingaustralia)—she is truly an incredible woman. There are also some amazing younger people pushing boundaries, like Lucy Barnard (@tanglesandtail) and her dog, Wombat, who are walking the length of the Americas, and Alexander Campbell (@alexander_campbell), who’s walking around the world while raising money for the Fred Hollows Foundation. These individuals are truly inspirational. But honestly, anyone who’s out there putting one foot in front of the other, no matter the distance or challenge, is an inspiration to me.
Tell us about some memories from your adventures that stand out to you.
My first long-distance walk, over 900 kilometres across Spain, will always be my most memorable. At the time, it felt impossible—I'd never walked more than 20 kilometres in a day, let alone cross an entire country on my own. I was overwhelmed with self-doubt, wondering if I was capable of such a challenge.
There were so many moments of fear and uncertainty—being in a foreign country with a language I didn’t speak, wondering if I could physically keep up, and questioning where I’d sleep each night. The isolation and daily struggles pushed me to my limits, and there were times I questioned why I was doing this at all.
But as the journey went on, something shifted. Each step, each milestone, reshaped how I saw myself. The fears slowly faded, replaced by a growing realisation of my strength and resilience. By the time I reached Santiago, tears of disbelief and accomplishment flowed. I had faced my doubts and completed a journey that once seemed out of reach.
That walk was more than a physical challenge; it was a moment of profound personal transformation. It taught me that we are capable of far more than we think, and that with determination, no dream is too big. Even after walking greater distances, that first journey remains my most memorable—it wasn’t just about reaching the end, but about becoming someone who believes in herself. The lessons from that walk continue to guide me, reminding me that I can face any challenge that comes my way.
Regarding those mental benefits you experience, and continue to experience on these longer journeys, what keeps you focused and motivated
Like everyone, I face challenges—whether in life or on the trail. Some days I lack motivation, but I remind myself it’s okay to rest and give myself grace. When life feels overwhelming, I turn to meditation to clear my mind and focus on the positive.
Hiking is full of tough moments too—steep climbs, endless rain, or finding a squashed banana in my pack. But mental toughness is built through these struggles. It’s the sum of every tough day, every step that felt impossible, and the reminder that I’ve made it through challenges before. A positive attitude helps. I remind myself how lucky I am to be doing something I love. Others would dream of being on that trail, and I’m grateful for every step, even the tough ones. They all teach me valuable lessons, and I never take the ability to pursue my dreams for granted.
You mentioned meditation, which has a mindfulness component. So, how do you incorporate mindfulness or meditative practices into your adventures?
Hiking has taught me the value of truly noticing my surroundings. Being in nature brings a sense of peace and mindfulness, helping me disconnect from daily life and reconnect with myself. Nature’s beauty—sounds, smells, and sights—has a healing, grounding effect on my mind and body.
I encourage others to engage their senses: what you see, hear, smell, and feel. By slowing down and tuning in, you experience the world more deeply—whether it’s the scent of pine or the sound of a brook. This practice of noticing creates gratitude and a deeper connection to nature, which can also carry over into everyday life. Beauty is all around us; we just need to take the time to notice.
What do you enjoy most, or what’s the most fun aspect of hiking for you?
The fun, lighthearted side of my adventures comes from the connections that are made along the way. Whether it is fellow hikers, friendly locals, or quirky shopkeepers, I love hearing their stories and sharing moments of laughter. Sometimes, these interactions turn into lifelong friendships, and I always learn something new—like a hidden trail or a local tradition.
Animals are another highlight. From donkeys braying "hello" to cows with their bell-rings and curious gazes, they add a special charm to every hike. Watching birds of prey soar above is a constant reminder of nature's grace and power.
Communal dinners are one of my favourite parts of the journey. Connecting with fellow travellers after a long day on the trail creates a deep sense of connection. And mornings in nature—unzipping the tent to greet the sunrise, the smell of coffee brewing—are pure bliss. Even the rain has its charm, reminding me that not every moment needs to be perfect to be beautiful.
For me, hiking is about more than the landscapes—it’s about the people, animals, and unexpected moments that make each adventure memorable. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, watching a donkey make a friend, or enjoying a quiet sunrise, these simple joys are what make every hike unforgettable.
Now on the other hand, what's your least favorite part of long-distance hiking?
What I least enjoy on my adventures are a few inconveniences that test my patience. Packing up a wet tent in the rain is always a hassle—damp fabric and everything sticking together makes it feel like a chore. Setting up the tent in the rain is no better.
Then there are the flies, especially in Australia. They swarm the moment I stop, and no matter how much I swat, they keep coming back. The March flies are even worse, biting unexpectedly and leaving painful marks. I’m not a fan of snakes either. While I respect their space, a sudden rustle or glimpse of one always makes my heart race.
But the biggest issue for me is litter, particularly discarded tissues. It goes against the “leave no trace” philosophy, and it’s disheartening to see. I always try to carry out everything I bring, and I wish others would do the same to keep nature clean and beautiful.
Despite these challenges, they don’t overshadow the adventure. They’re the moments we laugh about later—part of the experience that makes hiking feel real. But I do hope the tissue problem fades away.
“The key is to keep moving—one step at a time.”
What does training for your backpacking adventures look like?
A typical day of training involves either a visit to the gym, where I focus on weight-bearing exercises—crucial for my age—and some cardio, or I head out for a hike or a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood. Either way, I make sure to include some form of physical activity in my day.
How do you balance training, work, and personal life?
One of the greatest gifts of getting older and being retired is having time —time to focus on what truly matters and pursue the things that bring me joy. Without the pressure of a packed schedule, I’ve been able to create a routine that supports both my physical and mental well-being. I plan my days around gym training and hiking, which keeps me active and focused on my fitness, while also offering flexibility and space to enjoy what I love. This balance of exercise, adventure, and personal time has been incredibly fulfilling. It allows me to be present with my family, enjoy quiet moments with my partner, play with my grandchildren, and connect with friends without the stress of squeezing everything into a tight schedule. I now prioritise what brings me joy—fitness, nature, family, and reflection—without feeling overwhelmed.
Having the gift of time has allowed me to shape a life that’s both adventurous and meaningful. I’m no longer in a rush, and I’ve come to deeply appreciate the pace and balance this stage of life offers.
What are some of your favorite recovery practices after a particularly challenging training session or long hiking day?
To stay fit for long hikes, stretching is key. I stretch at least three times a day—morning, after lunch, and before bed. In the morning, I do dynamic stretches like leg swings and shoulder rolls to wake up my muscles. After lunch, I stretch to relieve stiffness and boost energy. At the end of the day, I cool down with stretches to prevent soreness and help recovery.
In addition to stretching, I do targeted exercises from my trainer to strengthen muscles I use most on the trail, like my core, legs, and back. This helps keep me injury-free and balanced on long hikes. Stretching and strength training are essential to maintaining flexibility, preventing injuries, and enjoying my hikes for years to come.
When you're spending a day (or days!) out on the trails, what snacks or favorite meals do you have that keep you going?
My hiking meals vary depending on the trail. At camp, I keep it simple and nutritious, often dehydrating my own food. Breakfast is porridge, lunch is a wrap with tuna, avocado, and tomato, and I snack on fruit, nuts, and, of course, coffee. A treat like a Snickers or dark chocolate makes it even sweeter. I love a cup of miso soup at camp—comforting after a long day.
When hiking overseas, I plan more carefully, especially when resupply options are limited. I once survived on just bread and jam in France—lesson learned! A picnic on the trail is always a highlight, with fresh bread, cheese, ham, avocado, and sometimes an orange. I try new lollies wherever I go, and I always make sure to stay hydrated, adding electrolytes to my water.
Food is a small but essential pleasure during hikes. It’s all about balance, preparation, and enjoying the little comforts along the way.
What gear or equipment do you consider essential for your backpacking excursions?
When it comes to hiking gear, there is a lot of personal preference involved, and what works for me may not necessarily work for you. It’s important to experiment with different gear and find what suits your individual needs, comfort, and hiking style. That said, I’m happy to share the gear I rely on, and I encourage you to explore these options while remaining open to alternatives that might work better for you.
Hiking Poles - I use Leki hiking poles, which provide excellent stability and support on the trail. They help reduce strain on my knees during steep descents and offer added balance, especially on rugged terrain.
Hiking Umbrella - Investing in a hiking umbrella has been a game-changer for me in recent years. While it may seem like an unconventional piece of gear, it has proven incredibly useful—particularly in extreme heat. During a recent hike through France and Italy in a heatwave, my umbrella blocked up to 6% of the heat, offering noticeable relief in temperatures exceeding 40°C. It was equally invaluable on rainy days, particularly during the Via Podiensis. I can’t believe it took me so long to start using one—it’s now one of my most essential hiking accessories.
Personal Hygiene - When it comes to hygiene, especially for us women, I highly recommend a Kula Cloth. This eco-friendly alternative to tissues is compact, reusable, and helps me adhere to Leave No Trace principles—something I’m always mindful of while hiking.
Safety and Navigation - One of the most important pieces of equipment I carry is a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon). I use a Garmin inReach Mini, which allows me to stay connected and share my location in case of an emergency. While I’ve never had to use it, knowing it's there provides peace of mind, especially when hiking solo or in remote areas. I also rely on my Garmin Instinct watch for tracking my route.
Do you have any other favorite hobbies or sports? And what attracts you to these activities?
When I’m not hiking, I stay balanced with activities I love. Golf allows me to relax outdoors, while reading books about hiking and adventure fuels my passion for nature. I enjoy cooking, experimenting with new dishes, and sharing meals. Spending time with friends is important to me, as are the moments I cherish with my grandchildren. Whether cooking, hiking, or reading together, I treasure introducing them to the things I love and watching them grow.
Last but definitely not least - what future goals or adventures do you have planned, and how are you preparing for them?
My goals focus on staying fit and strong for future adventures. Regular gym workouts and daily walks keep me ready for any challenge. One goal is completing the remaining 700+ km of the Via Francigena walk, particularly the Italian section from Aosta to Lucca. I’m also excited for overnight hikes in Australia's High Country and continuing my tradition of long-distance hikes around the world. Since my 60s, I've walked across countries and covered thousands of kilometres, embracing an active lifestyle. I’m honoured to be “Athlete of the Month” and grateful to Adventure Resumes for the reminder to us all that age is no barrier to following your dreams. The key is to keep moving—one step at a time.
