Let's face it, making friends as adults can be hard. That's what led Kaf Nelson to start LKLD Girls Who Walk in the spring of 2024. Since their first walk around Lake Mirror nearly two years ago, her sneaker-clad crew (and friend group) has multiplied.

The premise is simple: Women from all walks of life join up for weekly walks around Lakeland, often with strollers or friendly pups. Non-runners, have no fear. LKLD Girls Who Walk is more about socializing than speed.

This definitely counts as exercise — after a lap around Lake Hollingsworth, I got nearly 6,000 steps. | Photo by LALtoday

I joined for a three-mile stroll + yap session around Lake Hollingsworth, and the group was super welcoming. I liked that Nelson tells everyone to walk beside someone they haven't talked to before reaching the end of the path, meaning even more chances to make friends.

It's free to join the walks, which start at 6 p.m. on Thursdays. Follow along on Instagram to see when monthly locations are announced.

Thanks to LKLD Girls Who Walk for letting this editor join — I'll be back. | Photo by LALtoday