Yousef Chavehpour - Hiking and Backpacking

I have a deep passion for nature and mountains. As Edmund Hillary once said, "It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves." In Iran, I have hiked numerous mountains, among them Mount Damavand, the country's highest peak (Elevation: 18,406′). Over a decade, I embarked on 300+ journeys, each one leaving an incredible mark on my life. These experiences have taught me patience, persistence, and the beauty of embracing both the journey and the destination. They've also instilled in me a deep respect for change and the need to stay humble before both nature's power and life's unpredictability.

Photo Credit: Rachel Daneshpour

Since 2021, while in State College, I've had the opportunity to hike over 80 trails. Whether solo or with companions, I've spent weekends exploring an immersing myself in nature, enjoying every moment of the adventures

In the summer of 2022, I embarked on a solo 250+ mile backpacking adventure along the Colorado Trail. I summited the giants of the Rockies—Mounts Elbert and Massive, Trekked through six breathtaking national forests and wilderness area, and spent 19 nights under the stars! This journey, not only pushed my limits, but also deepened my connection to the wild, leaving me with unforgettable experience.

In the summer of 2023, I section hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire, traversing the breathtaking Franconia Range in the White Mountains with my partner, Mozhgan.

Despite a few attempts, I haven’t yet made it to the John Muir Trail—such is the reality of PhD life—but the dream is still alive! Beyond that, I’ve always dreamed of backpacking through Alaska’s wild landscapes and exploring the majestic Andes in South America. Both are high on my list of future expeditions!