Taking Grief Outside: Introducing PDX Grief Walks

Our grief needs to move. And it sometimes needs companionship.

There's something about walking through the woods that changes how we hold our grief. Maybe it's the rhythm of our footsteps on the trail. Maybe it's the way sunlight filters through the trees, or how the forest holds space without asking us to explain ourselves. Whatever it is, we've learned that some of our deepest healing happens when we take grief outside.

That's why we're excited to announce PDX Grief Walks—a new weekly outdoor grief support group meeting in Portland's beautiful Forest Park.

When Grief Needs to Move

Grief isn't meant to stay still. It's not something we can simply think our way through or process solely from the comfort of a couch. Sometimes our grief needs our bodies. It needs movement, fresh air, and the gentle reminder that we're still here, still breathing, still capable of putting one foot in front of the other.

Walking gives our grief somewhere to go. It creates a rhythm that can hold the weight of what we're carrying. And when we walk together—in community with others who understand—that weight becomes a little lighter.

What to Expect

Starting Tuesday, February 3rd, grief counselors Katherine Hatch, MSW, LCSW and Alyssa Ackerman, B.A., LMT will be leading gentle outdoor grief walks through the Lower Saltzman Trail in Forest Park. These aren't just walks—they're intentional spaces designed to support you exactly where you are in your grief journey.

Each walk will include:

• Brief introductions to help us get grounded together

• Grounding exercises to connect with ourselves and the natural world around us

• Thoughtful readings that speak to the experience of grief and loss

• Easeful walking at a pace that honors everyone in the group

• Communal sharing for those who want to speak

• Space for silence for those who need it

The beauty of these walks is that there's no pressure to have it figured out. You don't need to be "good at grief" or know what to say. You can talk if you want. You can be quiet if you need. You can cry, laugh, or simply exist in the company of others who get it.

Your Grief Is Welcome Here

We know that grief can feel isolating. It can make us feel like we're navigating a foreign landscape that no one else understands. But the truth is, you're not alone. And sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is walk alongside others who are carrying their own losses, their own stories, their own grief.

Whether you're deep in the trenches of early grief or you're years into your journey and just need to be around people who understand—there's space for you here. Your pain is welcome. Your questions are welcome. Your presence is welcome.

The Details

When: Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30 PM Pacific Time

Where: Lower Saltzman Trail, Forest Park, Portland, OR

Duration: One hour

What to bring: Weather-appropriate layers and water

Meeting point: The white gate at the start of the main trail

Parking: Free parking available on the side of the road

Important: A signed consent and liability release is required to participate in Grounded Grief Walks.

Come Walk With Us

Sometimes the best therapy happens with your feet on the ground and trees all around. If you're looking for a way to move through your grief that honors both the heaviness and the hope, we'd love to have you join us.

Come as you are. Let's walk it out together.

Register here to reserve your spot for our first walk on February 3rd or any Tuesday that follows.

See you on the trail. 🤍

For more information about PDX Grief Walks or other Grounded Grief programs, visit our Groups & Workshops page or contact us.