Mike Radomski's journey started with Phelps Mountain, and he soon found himself captivated by the physical challenge and beauty of the mountains. Despite initially underestimating the demands of hiking, Mike adapted his training and skills, eventually completing both the regular and Winter 46er challenges. This transformation from an athlete to a dedicated hiker provided him with fulfillment through the physical and mental challenges of hiking.
Facing career burnout and wanting to spend more time with his sons, Mike semi-retired and began documenting his outdoor adventures on YouTube. His involvement in the Allegheny 18 challenge led him to create a community around it, eventually launching the Western New York Hiking Challenge. This self-driven challenge covers multiple trails across the region and has grown significantly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It now boasts 3,500 participants and a supportive Facebook community of 65,000 members.
Over five years, the challenge has raised over $330,000 for local environmental causes and has helped many individuals gain confidence, lose weight, and manage anxiety and depression. The community has become a platform for people to stay active, reconnect with family, and cope with various life challenges. Mike continues to expand his initiatives, offering skills classes, guided hikes, and additional challenges like winter and birding challenges. His emphasis on preparedness and personal connections has inspired many to pursue outdoor adventures and adopt active lifestyles. Despite struggling to scale his activities due to personal involvement, Mike aims to expand regionally and considers using video content for broader impact. His recent 23-day Grand Canyon rafting trip highlights his love for long-term immersion in nature.
