The 5 am crew Manifesto
1. Community and Connection:
The 5 am Crew is about building a community of like-minded individuals who support and motivate each other. It's a place for making connections that go beyond the trails.
2. Consistency and Commitment:
Commitment to showing up consistently is valued, whether it's for physical health, mental clarity, or preparing for larger challenges. The group hikes three times a week, providing a steady routine for members.
3. Respect and Safety:
Safety and respect are paramount.The hikes are structured to ensure that everyone can participate comfortably and safely. This includes starting on time, sticking together, and ensuring everyone is equipped properly with the necessary gear.
4. Collaboration and Support: The 5 AM Crew believes in the power of collaboration. While our hikes are designed for those with prior hiking experience or the ability to handle steep inclines, we frequently collaborate with other hiking groups and support each other in various outdoor endeavors. We strive to create a supportive environment where experienced hikers feel challenged and motivated.
5. Personal Accountability:
While the group provides support, individuals are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their safety and preparedness on the hikes.
6. Enjoyment and Preservation of Nature:
Members are encouraged to enjoy and respect the natural surroundings, promoting an appreciation for the environment and advocating for its preservation.
1. Community and Connection: The 5 am Crew is about building a community of like-minded individuals who support and motivate each other. It's a place for making connections that go beyond the trails.
2. Consistency and Commitment: Commitment to showing up consistently is valued, whether it's for physical health, mental clarity, or preparing for larger challenges. The group hikes three times a week, providing a steady routine for members.
3. Respect and Safety: Safety and respect are paramount.The hikes are structured to ensure that everyone can participate comfortably and safely. This includes starting on time, sticking together, and ensuring everyone is equipped properly with the necessary gear.
4. Collaboration and Support: The 5 AM Crew believes in the power of collaboration. While our hikes are designed for those with prior hiking experience or the ability to handle steep inclines, we frequently collaborate with other hiking groups and support each other in various outdoor endeavors. We strive to create a supportive environment where experienced hikers feel challenged and motivated.
5. Personal Accountability: While the group provides support, individuals are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their safety and preparedness on the hikes.
6. Enjoyment and Preservation of Nature: Members are encouraged to enjoy and respect the natural surroundings, promoting an appreciation for the environment and advocating for its preservation.
Meet omar
Meet omar
Hi, I’m Omar Covarrubias, a professional entertainer with over 21 years of experience in bringing joy and laughter to crowds. Beyond the stage, I’ve discovered a passion for early morning hikes, leading The 5am Crew through Griffith Park. What started as solo hikes at 5:30 AM has grown into a vibrant community of hikers, thanks to the power of connection and consistency.
Years ago, I would invite friends to join my early hikes, but few ever showed up. Most of the time, I ended up hiking alone, which meant I had no one to hold me accountable if I decided not to go. Last year, I decided to go all in, inviting everyone I knew and creating an Instagram account for The 5am Crew. My goal was to gather a group for a 6-mile trail to Mount Hollywood Summit. Surprisingly, people started showing up, and our group began to grow.
READ ABOUT MY STORY
Hiking with The 5am Crew is more than just exercise; it’s about creating connections and celebrating small victories. On the way up, we’re often quiet, focused on the climb. But on the way down, conversations flow, and we share our experiences. The sense of achievement upon reaching the summit, with views spanning LA, Santa Monica, the San Gabriel Valley, Glendale, and even Catalina Island on clear days, is a reward that keeps everyone coming back.
As we hike, I’ve noticed people join us for different reasons. Some need a break from life’s challenges, finding the hike freeing and a way to disconnect. Others appreciate the safety of being in a group, even if they don’t feel like talking. This community offers support and encouragement, creating a space where people can check out for three hours and just think.
Leading these hikes has shown me the importance of consistency, preparation, and safety. Despite a rainy break that paused our hikes, a viral Instagram post reignited interest, expanding our community to about 30 hikers on weekdays and 60 on Saturdays. Each week, I get to entertain, guide, and connect with new people, starting our hikes at 5 AM sharp and ensuring everyone is informed and safe.
I always set ground rules and guidelines to keep everything professional and respectful. We carry walkie-talkies to keep track of everyone, with someone at the front, back, and middle, and we always have a first aid kit and the ranger’s number handy. We also set up systems to check in on each other, ensuring everyone feels supported and safe.
Our hikes aren’t just about reaching the top. They’re about building a community of like-minded individuals who push themselves, share their stories, and grow together. It’s about creating friendships, finding a support system, and encouraging each other.
One of the funniest parts is that the people who show up every week are like my accountability buddies. I have more than one, and they help keep me on track and motivated, making sure I’m there at 5 AM sharp every single time. I’ve heard from many hikers how these early morning adventures have changed their lives, offering exactly what they needed at different times. Some people come alone, sharing how their friends planned to join but slept in. Yet, they still show up for the hike, finding solace and purpose in the journey.
I know the importance of starting on time, which is why we meet at 5 AM but start the hike at 5:15 AM sharp. This respects those who arrive early and gives a grace period for anyone arriving at the last minute, ensuring no one feels left out.
Through this experience, I’ve learned that while this isn’t for everyone, those who join us are here for the right reasons. It’s been an amazing journey, and our Instagram following has grown from 500 to 8,000. I may not be a professional hiker, but my passion for these early morning hikes and the community we’ve built keeps me going.
Join The 5am Crew for an unforgettable hiking experience where every step brings you closer to nature, to others, and to yourself.
about my story
Discover the Magic of Early Morning Adventures with the 5 AM Crew
Discover the Magic of Early Morning Adventures with the 5 AM Crew
The 5 AM Crew is a vibrant community of early risers who share a passion for hiking and exploring nature. Founded by outdoor enthusiasts, our group meets at the crack of dawn to conquer trails and witness breathtaking sunrises. With us, you'll find a welcoming and supportive community. Our hikes, which last about three hours, are designed for intermediate hikers. While we start off as strangers, we always end the hike as friends or at least acquaintances. The purpose of our hikes is to foster connection and build meaningful relationships while enjoying the beauty of nature.
The 5 AM Crew is a vibrant community of early risers who share a passion for hiking and exploring nature. Founded by outdoor enthusiasts, our group meets at the crack of dawn to conquer trails and witness breathtaking sunrises. With us, you'll find a welcoming and supportive community. Our hikes, which last about three hours, are designed for intermediate hikers. While we start off as strangers, we always end the hike as friends or at least acquaintances. The purpose of our hikes is to foster connection and build meaningful relationships while enjoying the beauty of nature.
