IT STARTED WITH A LYFT RIDE.
Mark here, co-founder of Hobnail. On August 17, 2016, I needed a ride to my mechanic shop in downtown Nashville, TN. Nothing dramatic — my pickup needed work and I needed to get there. I downloaded Lyft, hopped in, and struck up a conversation with my driver, a friendly guy named Dawa.
Turns out Dawa wasn’t just any driver. He was a Nepali Sherpa — the real kind, the kind who’s spent years guiding people into the actual Himalayas — mainly to Everest Base Camp. By the time we pulled into the shop 10 minutes later, I’d stopped thinking about my car and started thinking about Everest.
Six months later, Hobnail existed. In March 2018, Holly and I led the inaugural Hobnail trek to Everest Base Camp with 14 people who, like us, had never done anything like it before.
That’s the whole origin story. No investors, no five-year plan, no Shark Tank — just a car repair that went sideways in the best possible way. It’s a crazy story. Hit the button below.
Why “Hobnail?”
Hobnail boots have been worn by soldiers, explorers, and mountaineers for centuries. George Mallory wore them on Everest in 1924. We chose the name because we believe in what they represent — dependability, traction, and getting regular people to extraordinary places. Read the full story →
most popular
EPIC MADE EASY.
Dreamed of doing a first-time overseas adventure — but just a little nervous?
We’ve got you.
Although we work with people of all experience levels, we specialize in helping first-time international travelers take the leap into epic adventure. Whether you’ve never left the country or just never considered yourself the “outdoorsy type,” we make the process simple, stress-free, and deeply rewarding.
More HOBNAIL ADVENTURES
I chose Hobnail Trekking Co. for my trip to Everest Basecamp and Gokyo Lakes. Hobnail helped create one of the fondest memories and experiences I have ever had. Mark and Holly were so incredibly attentive and had thought of every little detail to make our trip special. Our guides were so present and supportive to the group and made every day on the trail incredible. I can’t recommend this company more!! Don’t wait any longer, sign up NOW!
My experience with Hobnail made me change my preference between a solo trek and a group trek. For me, a group trek is better than a solo trek. The other trekkers and Sherpas definitely improved the overall experience. Plus, being with an organized group allowed me to focus on the trek and not the compulsory logistics (flights, lodging, where to eat, what to eat, etc). This adventure was exactly what I was looking for.
I had an amazing experience with Hobnail Trekking on my recent to trip to Peru! The app they’ve created has everything you need including your flight info, detailed itinerary and even recommendations for places to check out for each city you’re in. Mark and Holly were easy to reach and communicate with prior to the trip as well as during. Felt very informed, supported and prepared each step of the way. Would 10/10 recommend anyone thinking about going on one of their trips to say YES!!
This is an ideal trek for someone who wants challenging hiking during the day with wonderful views and scenery, but also it is very comfortable for overnight accommodations. Of course, like with any trek, it helps to have a good attitude, not expect everything to be like it is here, and be able to be happy with all the good things and let anything else just go. Loved the trek, thought the guides were great, and Hobnail was very responsive and nice about everything. Honestly, I can’t say enough good things about this trek and Hobnail Trekking.
