Who we are

Urban Hiker was founded by Mike King, an avid skier, runner, walker, and hiker based in Toronto. Mike also spends significant time in the Township of the Blue Mountains and Frontenac County, where he finds inspiration in the beauty of nature.

Mike has always been passionate about the outdoors, viewing nature as a source of clarity and a therapeutic escape—something that can only be fully appreciated by stepping outside.

History:

Mike’s journey with urban hiking began after a hiking accident in Greece left him needing ankle surgery. Unable to run—something he had done regularly since the age of 19—he soon realized how much he missed his daily outdoor activity as part of his recovery.

During his rehabilitation, Mike started using a wheelchair, which allowed him to get outside. As his recovery progressed, he transitioned to crutches and eventually an air cast boot, which enabled him to maintain his daily exercise.

While walking with his air cast boot, Mike began to notice and appreciate aspects of his local community and surroundings that had often gone unnoticed while running. The slower pace allowed him to truly connect with the environment and the therapeutic benefits of walking.

Inspired by these discoveries, Mike wanted to share the healing power of outdoor exploration with others, leading him to create Urban Hiker—a way for people to come together experience the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of urban hiking.