This past May, I had the good fortune to lead a group of hikers from Lucca to Siena, Italy, on the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrim trail. It is one of the most beautiful stretches anywhere to hike. It’s historic, loaded with natural beauty, and because Tuscan towns are on hills, it’s strenuous. There are long sections with wide-open vistas, but little shade.

Weather in Italy in the spring can bring anything from rain to extreme heat, so hikers must be comfortable with a variety of conditions. We planned to hike 10-15 miles for each of six days. It’s not easy, especially if you’re not used to that much hiking. And since most of the time we are out in the countryside, there are few or no options for bailing out.

Safety and enjoyment are paramount in these hikes, so when I saw that two of our hikers were 78 and 85, I was worried. But I soon learned not to underestimate Barbara Toliver and Susan Taylor of Bainbridge Island.

Our group met in Lucca for a welcome dinner and to meet the other hikers. As I sipped Prosecco with Tolliver and Taylor, I prayed that I wasn’t leading these beloved women into something dangerous. At the end of the first day, they were fine, happy and energetic. I thought maybe this will be OK but I was still nervous. After a few more days, they were still happy and energetic. By the end of the trip, Barbara and Susan were, you guessed it, happy and energetic.

They never missed a beat. They climbed to the top of the Guinigi Tower in Lucca, to the hill towns, to the top of the Duomo in Florence, and they hiked each day with a smile. They were curious about the history and culture of the area, marveling at the natural beauty, undaunted by the need to cross a rushing river on slippery rocks.

They laughed and sang and shared stories as we hiked carrying our day packs up steep vineyard-covered hills. At the end of every day, they sipped an Aperol Spritz before trotting off to dinner with the group.

Let me be clear, they trained for this trip, and it showed. But they knew that if they committed to this, and they trained in a safe and healthy way, they would be able to handle it, and they did. They believed in themselves.

I’m sure that mindset applies to how they have always approached their very successful, busy lives. They believe they can, and so they can. They have confidence and courage.

I love hiking, especially in Europe. It’s something I hope to do for a very long time. But I’ve often told myself that, at 63, I probably only have a few more good years left before I can’t go anymore.

That’s changed. I plan to channel my inner Barbara and Susan. I’m going to keep smiling, keep learning and keep moving. They showed me I’ve got plenty of time.

Carla Mackey works with travel agencies in West Seattle and Florence to give walking tours in Italy.