About NatureStep Hiking

Connecting people with nature through sustainable outdoor adventures

Our Story

NatureStep Hiking was founded in 2015 by two passionate outdoor enthusiasts, Katherine Morrison and Benjamin Chen, who shared a vision of making Australia's incredible wilderness accessible to everyone while protecting it for future generations. What started as weekend hiking trips with friends quickly grew into a movement that has transformed thousands of lives.

After witnessing the growing disconnect between urban populations and natural environments, Katherine and Benjamin recognized the urgent need for eco-conscious outdoor experiences. They spent two years meticulously mapping trails, building relationships with conservation organizations, and developing sustainable tourism practices that would minimize environmental impact while maximizing visitor engagement.

In 2017, we opened our Brisbane headquarters on Queen Street, establishing a professional base for our growing team of certified guides and environmental educators. Today, we proudly serve over 12,500 hikers annually across 85 carefully curated trails, maintaining our founding commitment to ecological responsibility and exceptional outdoor experiences.

Our story beginnings

Our Mission & Values

Our Mission

To inspire environmental stewardship and personal growth through transformative hiking experiences that connect people with Australia's natural heritage. We strive to make outdoor adventures accessible to all fitness levels while maintaining the highest standards of ecological responsibility and safety.

Every trail we guide, every workshop we conduct, and every interaction we have is designed to foster deeper appreciation for the natural world and empower individuals to become active participants in conservation efforts.

Core Values

  • Environmental Stewardship: We prioritize ecological preservation in every decision, operating carbon-neutral and contributing to habitat restoration.
  • Inclusivity: Outdoor experiences should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or background.
  • Safety First: The wellbeing of our participants is paramount, supported by rigorous training and preparation.
  • Authentic Experiences: We create genuine connections with nature through small groups and expert guidance.
  • Continuous Learning: We embrace innovation and constantly improve our practices based on feedback and research.
  • Community Building: We foster lasting relationships among hikers, creating a supportive outdoor community.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Katherine Morrison

Katherine Morrison

Co-Founder & CEO

With over 20 years of wilderness guiding experience and a Master's degree in Environmental Science, Katherine leads our strategic vision and sustainability initiatives. Her passion for ecological education has shaped NatureStep's conservation-focused approach.

Benjamin Chen

Benjamin Chen

Co-Founder & Operations Director

Benjamin brings expertise in outdoor recreation management and risk assessment. A certified wilderness first responder and mountaineering instructor, he oversees guide training, safety protocols, and trail selection, ensuring exceptional standards across all programs.

Amelia Rodriguez

Amelia Rodriguez

Lead Naturalist & Education Coordinator

Amelia develops our educational programs and workshops, combining her background in biology with exceptional teaching skills. She specializes in Australian flora and fauna, creating engaging learning experiences that inspire environmental awareness in participants of all ages.

Marcus O'Brien

Marcus O'Brien

Senior Guide & Trail Manager

Marcus has guided expeditions across six continents and holds advanced certifications in wilderness medicine and search and rescue. He manages our guide team, maintains trail relationships with land managers, and designs new route offerings that showcase Australia's diverse landscapes.

Our Achievements & Milestones

🏆

Queensland Tourism Award

2023

Recognized as Queensland's leading eco-tourism operator for outstanding sustainable practices and visitor experiences.

🌱

Carbon Neutral Certification

2021

Achieved complete carbon neutrality across all operations through renewable energy investments and verified offset programs.

👥

12,500+ Hikers Served

Since 2015

Successfully guided thousands of participants through safe, educational, and transformative outdoor experiences.

🌲

50,000 Trees Planted

2020-2026

Contributed to major reforestation efforts through our carbon offset and habitat restoration programs.

📚

Environmental Education Programs

Ongoing

Reached over 5,000 students through school partnerships and community workshops promoting conservation awareness.

98% Satisfaction Rating

Consistent

Maintained exceptional customer satisfaction through personalized service and commitment to quality experiences.

What Our Partners Say

Jennifer Patterson testimonial
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We've partnered with NatureStep for three years of corporate team building programs. Their professionalism, safety standards, and ability to create meaningful experiences for diverse groups is unmatched. Employee feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with lasting impacts on workplace culture."

Jennifer Patterson - HR Director, TechCorp Australia

Dr. Robert Finch testimonial
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"NatureStep's environmental education programs have become an essential part of our curriculum. Their guides possess deep ecological knowledge and exceptional teaching abilities. Students return energized and engaged, with many pursuing environmental careers. A truly invaluable partnership."

Dr. Robert Finch - Principal, Greenfield Secondary College

Lisa Tran testimonial
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"As conservation managers, we've worked with many tourism operators, but NatureStep stands out for their genuine commitment to environmental protection. They actively contribute to habitat restoration, follow best practices rigorously, and inspire visitors to become conservation advocates. Exemplary partners."

Lisa Tran - Conservation Manager, Queensland Parks Service

Ready to Join Our Adventure?

Whether you're seeking your first hiking experience or looking to challenge yourself on advanced trails, NatureStep Hiking welcomes you. Let's explore Australia's natural wonders together while making a positive environmental impact.