Hiking Kansas - Jeri Brungardt

Tanner Colvin
6 days ago
2 min read

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pW2-4t0eAnY

Jeri Brungard is the co-founder of Women Hiking Kansas and Beyond, a community that has inspired thousands of women to discover the beauty of the outdoors while building lasting friendships. What began in 2019 as a way to organize hikes with a handful of friends has grown into a thriving Facebook community of more than 12,000 members. Through monthly hikes across Kansas and annual adventures beyond the state's borders, Jeri and Cindy have helped create an organization that welcomes women of all experience levels to explore together.

A lifelong advocate for health and wellness, Jeri spent much of her professional career in healthcare, working in quality improvement and infection prevention before settling in Salina. Her passion for hiking grew from a love of staying active and spending time outdoors, eventually leading her to discover that Kansas is home to an incredible variety of trails, landscapes, and hidden natural treasures. She and co-founder Cindy Coughenour personally scout every hike, ensuring each adventure is safe, accessible, and enjoyable for participants.

Under Jeri's and Cindy's leadership, Women Hiking Kansas and Beyond has become much more than a hiking club. It is a supportive community where women of all ages and backgrounds come together to encourage one another, improve their physical and mental well-being, and experience the diverse beauty of Kansas. Whether exploring the Flint Hills, wandering through the forests of southeast Kansas, or venturing into the mountains of Colorado, Their mission remains the same: helping women build confidence, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. Click to expand images