About Us
“Bridging Data Science and Nature Conservation”
How We Got Started
Hikes of Georgia began with Ranger Darling’s love for Georgia’s wild landscapes and fungi. As a park ranger, mycology enthusiast, and data scientist, he saw how intimidating hiking and foraging could be for beginners. HOG was created to make nature accessible, safe, and inspiring, blending education with adventure. Since then, HOG has grown into a community where curiosity, conservation, and connection thrive. We’re here to guide you on safe, fun, and inspiring adventures across Georgia’s ecosystems.
Our Mission
Our mission builds on this foundation, blending outdoor exploration with education and ecological data to protect Georgia’s natural heritage. We aim to empower people of all backgrounds to explore Georgia’s trails, learn about fungi and native ecosystems, and contribute to conservation. Through HOG’s outdoor programs and the Ecological Data Alliance (EDA), we merge hands-on learning with data-driven insights to build a more sustainable future.
Our Pillars
Our work is built on three pillars that guide everything we do. From leading accessible, beginner-friendly hikes, to teaching safe mushroom foraging and fungi education, to advancing environmental awareness through data-driven insights, each pillar reflects our mission to connect people with nature. Together, these pillars create a balanced approach — blending outdoor adventure, ecological education, and innovative conservation solutions.
🥾 Guided Hikes & Events
Weekend hikes and nature events across Georgia
We host affordable, beginner-friendly hikes designed to deepen your connection with nature while building community. Every hike blends exploration with fun, education, and safety.
🍄 Fungi & Foraging Education
Learn about mushrooms, ecosystems, and wild edibles
Our guided hikes double as interactive learning experiences, where you’ll discover how to safely identify local mushrooms and plants — while appreciating their ecological and cultural value.
🧬 Environmental Awareness & Data
Science-driven and community-powered
Through our Ecological Data Alliance (EDA), we combine community science and ecological data to drive conservation. From biodiversity dashboards to climate-trend reports, we connect people and data to protect Georgia’s ecosystems.