When it comes to the path ahead, these heroes lead the way in exchange for something that betters themselves and more importantly, their community. Whether their trail involves mountain peaks or advocacy for the things most meaningful to them, the trails are made better thanks to these hard-charging heroes.

We heard stories from people all across the US and Canada and selected six people that truly exemplify what it means to be an Oboz Local Hero. We'll be featuring all six members of the group throughout 2024, so check back regularly for their stories.

Oboz Local Hero, Dan Cavaliere, stands with a shovel on a recent trail work day.
Oboz Local Hero, Dan Cavaliere, stands with a shovel on a recent trail work day.

Dan Cavaliere

"Dan is an enthusiastic trail user, both as a mountain biker and hiker, and his enthusiasm spills over onto the trail work days."

Oboz Local Hero, Hallie Zolynski, in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.
Oboz Local Hero, Hallie Zolynski, in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.

Hallie Zolynski

"Hallie is a Wilderness Ranger in Montana’s Anaconda Pintler Wilderness. She loves the outdoors like no other and spreads that love throughout the community by teaching wilderness first-aid, wilderness survival, avalanche classes."

Oboz Local Hero Jo Giese on a hike at Ousel Falls, in Big Sky, Montana.
Oboz Local Hero Jo Giese on a hike at Ousel Falls, in Big Sky, Montana.

Jo Giese

"Jo Giese ruptured her left Achilles in a freak accident and lost it after a botched surgery. Her chances of walking and hiking again were slim. For 2.5 years she showed an unwavering dedication to a restorative exercise regimen. Her commitment allowed her to overcome the life-challenging aftermath of her Achilles' tendon dying."

Oboz Local Hero, Riley McGurn on a hike in the New Hampshire wilderness.
Oboz Local Hero, Riley McGurn on a hike in the New Hampshire wilderness.

Riley McGurn

"He is passionate about the outdoors, his community, the environment and most importantly he works in the mental health field helping those in their darkest times."

Oboz Local Hero Carol Kennedy backpacking
Oboz Local Hero Carol Kennedy backpacking

Carol Kennedy

"Carol Kennedy is devoted to helping folks with physical or cognitive disabilities enjoy the outdoors."

Oboz Footwear Local Hero Roxanna Strine at the Mason-Dixon trail in Pennsylvania
Oboz Footwear Local Hero Roxanna Strine at the Mason-Dixon trail in Pennsylvania

Roxanne Strine

"Roxanne is a 70 years young trail runner and previous FKT holder of the Mason Dixon Trail. She is on the trail almost daily making sure our experience on the MDT is safe and enjoyable."

That's a wrap for our 2024 Oboz Footwear Local Heroes!