Local author, columnist West receives John Skinner Sierra Outdoors Recreation Award

Mary West, award-winning columnist and author of the Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guides series, has been named the 2025 recipient of the John Skinner Sierra Outdoors Recreation Award by Bear Yuba Land Trust (BYLT). The award honors individuals for outstanding leadership and contributions in outdoor recreation and education, recognizing those whose efforts have strengthened local parks, preserves and community programs throughout Nevada County. West, whose Day Hiker newspaper columns and guidebooks inspire readers to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Sierra foothills, was recognized for her advocacy of local trails and her ability to engage the community with nature. "Through my Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guides series, my hope has always been to encourage people to discover the joy of hiking while deepening their connection to our region's trails," said West. "To be honored by Bear Yuba Land Trust for this work is truly humbling, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to a community that has given me so much." West will be recognized at BYLT's Conservation Awards and Gratitude Breakfast on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Miners Foundry in Nevada City. In addition to her Day Hiker series, West has received multiple CRAFT Awards from the Outdoor Writers of California for her outdoor columns and books. She continues to be a leading voice in promoting healthy outdoor lifestyles and protecting local trail systems. For more information about Bear Yuba Land Trust and the John Skinner Sierra Outdoors Recreation Award, visit www.bylt.org.