Editor's Note -- Did you know that Michael Wong, the founder and CEO of ExoTrails, is as much an avid adventurer as he is a creative innovator? His fascination with rugged trails and hidden landscapes isn’t just a hobby; it’s the driving force behind ExoTrails.
Michael’s journey began in La Ngau, Binh Thuan, a small town in Vietnam, where a solo trek inspired him to create an app that would empower others to navigate uncharted territories safely. From traversing remote lakes in Canada to exploring vibrant Asian landscapes, his personal adventures shape the mission of ExoTrails—making nature more accessible to everyone.
On that beautiful sunny day in Canada with my twins, we set off for a backpacking trip to this stunning lake—a perfect opportunity to test our app in unfamiliar territory. As we hiked, I activated the "Record" mode, eager to capture our route and the breathtaking scenery. The app recognized my GPS position, seamlessly tracking our journey as we navigated the trails. It was a moment of pure joy, watching our adventure unfold on the screen while being surrounded by nature’s beauty. This feels like the exact moment when the concept of ExoTrails popped into my head 2 years ago in La Ngau, Binh Thuan.
A Passionate Beginning
As the founder and CEO of ExoTrails, my passion for fitness, outdoor adventures, and travel has shaped both my professional path and personal life. The world, in all its vastness, often feels surprisingly small when you embark on a journey. Each trip nourishes my soul, whether it's hiking through lush forests or savouring local cuisines in bustling markets. Every experience is a new chapter, filled with challenges and joys that deepen my love for exploration.
The ExoTrails Vision
At ExoTrails, our mission is clear: we strive to be the leader in curating the best and most verified trails, marathon routes, eco zones, activity-driven locations, heritage sites, and much more in Vietnam. We believe that outdoor exploration should be accessible, enriching, and safe for everyone. Our commitment to providing users with reliable information and exceptional experiences drives every decision we make.Testing Boundaries Beyond Borders
Over the past 16 months, I've had the privilege of using our platform across various landscapes—from the majestic mountains of Canada and the serene trails in the US to the vibrant scenery of Taiwan, China, Malaysia, and Thailand. Each location presented unique trails and experiences, but also highlighted the gaps we aim to fill. While we don’t yet have a comprehensive ExoTrails community or dataset in these regions, our app has evolved significantly. The “Record” or “Create My Own Trail” feature allows users to map their adventures, even in places where our database isn't fully developed. On the 18th September, 2024, I took a trip to Barrie Lake, which is approximately 125 kilometers from my home, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Barrie Lake is a popular destination for all sorts of outdoor recreation and a protected area set within the Great Canadian Rockies.
On that beautiful sunny day in Canada with my twins, we set off for a backpacking trip to this stunning lake—a perfect opportunity to test our app in unfamiliar territory. As we hiked, I activated the "Record" mode, eager to capture our route and the breathtaking scenery. The app recognized my GPS position, seamlessly tracking our journey as we navigated the trails. It was a moment of pure joy, watching our adventure unfold on the screen while being surrounded by nature’s beauty. This feels like the exact moment when the concept of ExoTrails popped into my head 2 years ago in La Ngau, Binh Thuan.
