Corporate trekking: how nature strengthens teams and business goals

What science says: how nature enhances business performance

Numerous studies now clearly show that immersive outdoor experiences bring meaningful transformations at both individual and group levels. A 2024 study published in Psychology of Sport and Exercise demonstrated that facing physical challenges in natural environments significantly increases participants’ ability to perform in their professional settings. The randomised trial showed improved self-confidence and a greater willingness to take calculated risks—a key factor in innovation-driven workplaces. The effects were even more evident among those who initially perceived themselves as less confident, highlighting the “levelling” power of the outdoor experience.

When team members gain confidence in overcoming physical obstacles, this resilience naturally translates into the professional context. The mountain trail becomes a true training ground for work-related challenges, with measurable impacts on performance. According to research by several companies and institutions, organizations that integrate outdoor activities into their team building programs report a 15% increase in employee retention rates compared to those using only traditional approaches.

A journey into nature, a real transformation

Outdoor group activities offer unique advantages over indoor ones. A Stanford University study revealed that teams participating in outdoor experiences improved their communication and problem-solving skills by 20% compared to those engaging in indoor exercises.

In open-air settings, professional hierarchies tend to dissolve temporarily, allowing authentic individual talents to emerge. This fosters deeper communication and truly shared decision-making. Activities such as group trekking or orienteering challenges require a different, more genuine kind of collaboration. In an environment free from visible roles and focused on common goals, people feel more comfortable sharing ideas and making decisions together.

The benefits of corporate trekking

The advantages of corporate trekking stem from well-documented characteristics:

• Physical and mental health: Time spent in nature significantly reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) levels and increases perceived well-being. According to the American Psychological Association, employees engaged in outdoor activities show 30% fewer stress symptoms and a 25% boost in general well-being. The result? Greater focus, less fatigue, and more motivation.
• Increased creativity: Nature stimulates the mind in unique ways. A University of Utah study showed that, while immersed outdoors, participants improved their creative problem-solving abilities by 50%. Removed from the confines of daily routine, ideas flow more freely.
• Stronger bonds: Shared outdoor experiences strengthen relationships among colleagues. Facing challenges and moments of genuine beauty together leads to more empathy and mutual understanding—key components of effective teamwork.
• Positive company culture: Integrating nature into team building activities shows a commitment to employee well-being and environmental sustainability. This not only improves internal dynamics but also attracts talent aligned with these values.

Resilience forged in the outdoors

A longitudinal study published in the Journal of Management Development analyzed the impact of outdoor workshops in MBA programs. The verdict is clear: outdoor experiences accelerate team development more effectively than traditional methods. Participating groups showed greater cohesion, more efficient decision-making, and stronger collective problem-solving abilities.

This happens because trekking compresses all the stages of team building—forming, storming, norming, performing—into a short, intense experience. Reaching a summit or completing a challenging trail together becomes a solid foundation for future success.

How to organise effective trekking experiences

To fully harness the transformative potential of corporate trekking, high-quality planning is essential. Research points to key success factors:

• Purposeful design: Experiences must have clear goals aligned with the team’s challenges and the company’s strategic vision. Well-structured three-day outdoor workshops have proven particularly effective in MBA programs.
• Skilled facilitators: Activities should be led by professionals who understand both outdoor safety and organizational dynamics, enabling participants to draw meaningful connections between the experience and their work.
• Time for reflection: Structured reflection moments during the activity are essential to anchor new insights and make them useful back at work.
• Post-experience planning: Studies suggest co-developing action plans while still on the trail to embed new behaviors into daily business life.

From individual steps to collective progress

Just like every hike requires each person to place one foot in front of the other with intention, sustainable business growth is built on consistent, shared commitment. The value of trekking in team building lies precisely here: in its perfect parallel with business reality. Success doesn't come from dramatic leaps, but from steady progress in the right direction.

Is your company ready to discover how an outdoor experience can transform team dynamics and unlock sustainable growth? Take the first step toward a more cohesive, resilient, and high-performing organization. Contact us today for a personalizsed consultation and let’s co-create a tailor-made trekking experience aligned with your team’s unique challenges and opportunities. Together, we’ll chart the path to your next summit—one transformative step at a time.