Physical Address
357 Agency Rd,
Lapwai, ID 83540
LAPWAI, Idaho — What began as one 11-year-old’s simple invitation to hike with friends has grown into a youth-led tradition bringing local kids together for exercise, friendship, and outdoor adventure.
Quentin “Q” Long Fox of Culdesac started what he proudly calls his “hiking club” after deciding he wanted to hike the Lapwai Fire Trail with a few friends. There was no organized program, club, or special event behind the idea—just a child who wanted to spend time outdoors and invited others to join him.
On the group’s fifth hike, the club continued to grow through word of mouth, with new children joining alongside regular participants. There are no memberships, sign-up sheets, or attendance requirements. Some of the children hike every day, while others participate whenever they can. Even if no one else shows up, Q says he’ll still make the climb.
Each morning, the group meets at the Education Building before heading up the trail. Although entirely youth-led, the hikers have developed their own system to keep everyone together and safe. Before setting out, they choose who will lead the group, who will stay in the middle, and who will bring up the rear. They also carry walkie-talkies to stay in contact and make sure no one gets left behind.
Many of the participants already know one another through school, sports, the Boys & Girls Club, Nimiipuu Youth Adventures, or simply by growing up in the close-knit community. After Q’s invitation was shared in a Nimiipuu Youth Adventures parent Facebook group and on social media, families responded enthusiastically, and participation has continued to grow through personal invitations.
The hikes offer something different for every child. Some are using the trail to stay in shape ahead of fall sports seasons, while others simply enjoy spending time outdoors with friends. For many, it’s a combination of both.
In just five hikes, the young hikers have accumulated impressive numbers:
- Approximately 52.56 total miles walked by the group.
- Nearly 23,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain climbed.
- Wildlife sightings including a bald eagle, a rabbit, and a doe.
Beyond the statistics, parents say the hikes have become an example of youth creating their own positive opportunities during summer break without the need for formal organization.
When asked whether other children are welcome to participate, Q doesn’t hesitate.
“Everyone is welcome,” he said.
As summer continues, the young hikers plan to keep meeting each weekday morning, proving that sometimes all it takes to build a community is one child willing to ask, “Who wants to go for a hike?”
