“This one is for all future hikers and nature lovers. For all people that want to improve their health, stamina, and just simply feel great. For anyone that had never hiked, or thought that they can never reach the highest peak of Santa Monica mountains - here I am to tell you that Carmen will take you there!! When Covid hit and I was cooped up at home, tired and with very low energy, Carmen patiently took me, step by step, peak after peak, and hike after hike to some of the most beautiful places I never knew were all around us. We did some easy ones, and some very challenging. We crossed small creeks, reached high peaks, or took long walks by the beach, and one thing that kept me moving was Carmen’s patience, knowledge, encouragement, and helping hand. And did I miss to tell you about her tremendous energy! Well, for someone that hikes 10 miles a day many hikes might be a piece of cake, but not for me. Carmen took breaks whenever I needed them, she held my hand when I couldn’t balance on a small bridge over a creek, and walked in front of me to test the terrain. Now I can call myself a hiker thanks to her! Believe me, I will always need her because she knows this land like that back of her hand and because she makes it so much fun. I never felt the miles we walked! Today I’m full of energy and strong, and feel blessed to be walking guided by her. I never knew I could do all of this. I am so grateful to Carmen for she had literally open the mountain paths for me and I’m sure that everyone will feel the same way when guided by her.” - Nataliya Momcilova

“Carmen is a person who consistently embodies the positivity that we seek for our inner peace. Her charismatic personality leaves no stone unturned to provide you the perseverance to overcome obstacles that may come your way. Personally I am afraid of heights and hiking is not an activity that I had indulged in, until Carmen opened the door to the serenity of the stunning California landscape. On my first hike I took baby steps as we treaded higher and higher. With baited breath my fear seemed to diminish. I realized that I had “nothing to fear but fear itself”. This was possible only because Carmen provided the firm but gentle motivation that shone the light on my own inner strength. Carmen inspires me every day….when she is not with me ….I envision her peaceful being and I am transported to a loving state of light and happiness. Carmen is also an avid practitioner of pranayama.There are myriad pranayama techniques and through her extensive experiences, and library of breath awareness she tailored my practice.” -Manju Talreja

“Spending time out in nature with Carmen Joy is a life changing experience. The most memorable hikes I have ever been on were guided by her. A hike with Carmen Joy can be an exhilarating trek reaching high peaks rewarded with a glorious panoramic view of California's beauty, leaving you filled with a sense of awe and accomplishment. Her hikes can be peaceful and silent, hiking along crests of mountains overlooking the ocean. Passion for the beauty of California has inspired her on endless hikes. Spending hours hiking and walking she has led me to serene natural landscapes, inspiring a deeply spiritual reverence.Her patience and encouragement have given me the confidence to reach long standing health goals to increase my strength and endurance and to hike a trail to completion. She is deeply insightful and often finds alternative ways to view a challenge.Her many years of meditation practice have given her a graceful, serene and elegant countenance.Carmen Joy is a motivator. She is passionate about the beauty of nature and loves to share it with others. She is attentive and uplifting on a one to one basis, but is also great at organizing group events keeping in mind the strengths and skill levels of all members of the group. Carmen Joy is engaging and energetic, she is kind and wise. I would recommend her for any endeavor she pursues.” - Ramiya Aust

“I have had the pleasure of hiking with Carmen a number of times and have always found her to be knowledgeable, down to earth and cheerful. She is also a wealth of knowledge and wisdom about nutrition, diet, healthy cooking, Ayurveda, meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises) and fitness among other things. But it's her presence that makes her special - she has a grace and ease about her that helps one to relax and enjoy the moment, as well as an appreciation of beauty, nature and people that makes her so warm and relatable.” - John Slicker

“I've known Carmen for over ten years. She is one of the most caring and dedicated people I've ever met. She values health and spirituality. I've gone hiking with her and meditated with her on numerous occasions. She is always uplifting and inspiring. As a martial artist for over 30 years, boxing and kick boxing instructor, I have the utmost respect and admiration for Carmen”. - Karen Hunt

“I love nature and hiking with Carmen makes it that much more pleasurable. I have a busy schedule, but Carmen constantly encourages me to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature. She mentors you about health, wellness, and how to enjoy life. Carmen is a great human being and a fantastic photographer, so she knows where to point out photo possibilities. I like how Carmen uses her instinct to lead us in the right direction, so we can discover something unique each time. I highly recommend inviting Carmen on your next hiking adventure so you may have a one-of-a-kind experience.” - Niraj Mandes

“Carmen is one of the most gifted hikers I know. She has amazing knowledge of trails in the Southern California mountain range. We have hiked together many trails, from steep trails to shady creek trail and every one has been so enjoyable. Carmen is a natural hiker and leader on the trail.” - Marilynn Band

"Carmen is my favorite person to hike with. Her openness and warmth invite me onto each new adventure. She is a joy and delight to be around. It’s like walking and hiking with the nature goddess. There’s a sense of well being and peace being with her. Every experience feels very expanding and special. Her heart and joy is felt in every step.” - Annika West

“Carmen is a very enthusiastic nature lover and she loves hiking. This is her gift and her love! I enjoy hiking with her because she is so inspired and she loves new adventures! She inspires me! She is a real treasure too! She is a wonderful guide with great personality!” - Elizabeth Golden

“Walking and hiking with Carmen has been inspiring as she is very knowledgeable and informed on the trails of Southern California. Having Carmen as a hiking guide is uplifting for mood and spirit and of course, wonderful for physical fitness and de-stressing from our busy lives. She is a great resource for health and wellness, from breath work, yoga, meditation, diet and so much more.” - Matina Gunzinger