Meet Brett Gagnon: A Hike Leader Connecting Community to the Outdoors

If you’ve spent time on the trails with Pelham Pathways, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with Brett Gagnon—whether leading a group hike, sharing trail insights, or helping someone feel more comfortable getting outside.

Brett brings more than just knowledge of local trails—he brings over a decade of community involvement and a deep, personal connection to the outdoors.

A Decade of Experience—On and Off the Trails

For the past 10+ years, Brett has been actively involved in conservation, community leadership, and outdoor advocacy across southern New Hampshire. His work has included serving on a local Conservation Commission, supporting responsible development initiatives, and helping guide community decisions that impact open space and quality of life.

That experience shapes how he leads hikes today. He doesn’t just guide people from point A to point B—he helps them understand the land, its importance, and why preserving it matters.

A True Passion for Hiking

Brett’s love for the outdoors is rooted in personal experience. Between 2020 and 2024, he completed all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot peaks—a milestone that reflects both commitment and a genuine appreciation for the region’s natural beauty.

For him, hiking isn’t just exercise—it’s a way to reset, connect, and recharge. And it’s something he believes should be accessible to everyone.

Leading with Accessibility and Connection

Through Pelham Pathways, Brett helps lead hikes that are welcoming, inclusive, and focused on community. Whether you’re new to hiking or have years of experience, his goal is simple: make sure everyone feels comfortable being out there.

He’s especially passionate about expanding access to the outdoors—supporting initiatives like accessible trails and creating opportunities for people of all abilities to experience nature.

What You Can Expect on a Hike with Brett

• A relaxed, welcoming environment
• Insight into local trails and conservation efforts
• A focus on safety and comfort for all skill levels
• A genuine enthusiasm for helping others enjoy the outdoors

More than anything, Brett’s hikes are about connection—to nature, and to the people around you.

Why It Matters

Brett’s work with Pelham Pathways is part of a larger pattern—one built over years of volunteering, leadership, and outdoor involvement. But on the trail, it comes down to something simple: helping people take that first step outside.

And once they do, helping them want to come back.