Meet Kendra Mullins | Orophile Outdoor Adventures Executive Director & Program Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kendra Mullins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kendra, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
At Orophile Outdoor Adventures, we believe in the power of nature to bring people together. Our business isn’t just about hiking—it’s about building a vibrant, supportive community through shared outdoor experiences. We bring together people from all walks of life—active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, educators, artists, retirees, and more—to connect, exercise, and explore the beauty of Colorado.

We’ve seen firsthand how meaningful friendships and deep connections can blossom on the trails, reminding us that no one is meant to navigate life alone. We all need a sense of belonging, and our goal is to create that ‘village’ for people, even if it’s just one new friendship at a time. In 2025, we’re expanding beyond outdoor adventures by hosting community events, like our recent gathering at Bloom Ultra Lounge, to deepen these relationships off the trail as well.

At the heart of it all, Orophile Outdoor Adventures is about more than just exploring the outdoors—it’s about creating lasting bonds, supporting one another, and making sure everyone who joins us feels like they belong.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My work is centered around creating an inclusive and supportive outdoor community where people feel welcomed, empowered, and connected through hiking. What sets my organization apart is our commitment to fostering genuine relationships, not just on the trail but in everyday life. We aren’t just a hiking group; we’re a network of people who uplift and support each other beyond the outdoors.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how quickly this community has grown and the impact it has had in such a short time. Since moving to Colorado in September 2023, I’ve built a thriving group where people feel seen, heard, and encouraged to explore nature with confidence. Seeing members gain new friendships, challenge themselves on hikes, and embrace the beauty of the outdoors has been incredibly rewarding.

I would like to add, getting here wasn’t easy. When I started the group, there were days when only one person showed up—and sometimes, no one at all. For the first two months, I struggled with frustration and almost gave up on planning hikes. It felt discouraging and time-consuming to put in so much effort without seeing results. God used a friend in my life at that time to remind me why I started, and she encouraged me to keep going. Because of her, this group still exists. After those tough two months, the group slowly began to grow, and over the past year, it has consistently expanded. Through that experience, I learned that building anything in life requires time and patience. More importantly, I realized that sometimes it’s not about how many people show up—it’s about who shows up.

I also want people to know that if you want something, you can make it happen. It requires grit, tenacity, and passion. When I started this hiking group, I had only been in Colorado for three months. I had never hiked before, yet for an entire year, I committed to hiking trails I had never been on. It was a learning curve, but people were willing to join me on these adventures, knowing I didn’t always know the way—but trusting that I would get them to the trail and through the hike safely. That experience taught me that you have to bet on yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you.

The best lesson I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about creating space for others to grow alongside you. My journey is proof that when passion meets purpose, incredible things can happen. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to continue making a difference—one trail at a time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Colorado Springs & Denver Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome & Comfort Food

Morning: Arrive and settle in
Brunch: Kick off the trip with a classic breakfast at Waffle House
Afternoon: Explore Garden of the Gods – take a scenic drive or walk through the iconic rock formations
Evening: Enjoy delicious pizza and drinks at Walter’s 303 Pizzeria

Day 2: Hiking & Local Favorites

Morning: Hike Spruce Mountain Trail (a moderate hike with incredible views)
Afternoon: Grab a relaxed lunch and recover
Evening: Head to Trainwreck for great food, drinks, and a fun vibe

Day 3: Military History & Hidden Gems

Morning: Visit the Air Force Academy – explore the campus
Afternoon: Hike Palmer Park, a hidden gem with stunning city and mountain views
Evening: Dinner at O’Malley’s in Palmer Lake, a cozy, laid-back spot

Day 4: Manitou Adventure & Ice Cream

Early Morning: Conquer the Manitou Incline, a challenging but rewarding climb
Late Morning/Afternoon: Recover and explore Manitou Springs – check out local shops and cafes
Afternoon Treat: Stop by Rock House Ice Cream for a well-earned sweet reward

Day 5: Unique Landscapes, Mini Golf & Acacia Park

Morning: Drive out to Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Calhan – a stunning, colorful geological wonder
Afternoon: Have lunch and then head to Lost Island Miniature Golf & Adventure Park for some fun
Evening: Visit Acacia Park to relax, people-watch, or enjoy any local events happening there

Day 6: Denver Day – Art & Shopping

Morning: Drive to Denver and have breakfast at First Watch
Late Morning/Afternoon: Experience Meow Wolf – an immersive, mind-bending art experience
Afternoon: Spend time at Cherry Creek Shopping Center for shopping and exploring the area
Evening: Head back to Colorado Springs or enjoy dinner in Denver before returning

Day 7: Final Stops & Departure

Morning: One last breakfast – either back to Waffle House or try a new café
Afternoon: Head home or to your next destination

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to recognize my husband, Senior Airman Kevon Davis. Every weekend, he took care of our daughter so I could go hiking. His unwavering support gave me the opportunity to build meaningful relationships within the community—both on and off the trail.

I also want to give a special shoutout to the Colorado Springs Hiking Gals. When I first started my group, they welcomed me by allowing me to post my hikes in their space, and many of my current members came from their community. The women in that group have an incredible wealth of knowledge about hiking in Colorado, and as someone new to the area since September 2023, I’ve learned so much from them while out on the trails.

Lastly, I want to recognize Vibe Tribe Adventures, based in Denver, Colorado, for becoming my fiscal sponsor for the next three years. I’m honored to be part of their 2025 BIPOC Outdoor Leadership Program. Their Executive Director, Jessica Newton, has been an amazing supporter—watching my journey from afar and allowing me the space to find my path within the community. She has been inspired by the network I’ve built in such a short time, and her encouragement means the world to me.

Website: https://www.orophileoutdooradventures.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orophileoutdooradventures/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/me?trk=p_mwlite_me_notifications-secondary_nav

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565845424092&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
Extravagant Images (Professional Headshots)