1. Hiking is a global sport that has been practiced since our ancestors learned how to walk. Depending on where you live in the world, you “hike”, “trek”, “ramble” or “bushwalk”.




2. Hiking is an age friendly activity. As long as we can walk, we can hike!




3. Hiking is a fun activity to do as a family, with friends, or make new friends! You’re sure run into lots of friendly hikers on the trail. I sure have!




4. Hiking is fantastic exercise. It is cardiovascular activity, helps reduce body fat, and strengthens our balance.




5. Hiking provides us an avenue to explore nature and the beauties of the natural world.




6. Hiking can help us living longer! Regular hiking (like other exercise), can help to prevent heart disease, decrease cholesterol levels, improve bone density, and most of all, reduce stress. A ramble outdoors can easily take our minds off of the stresses and pressures of everyday life.




7. Hiking is a sport that does not hurt the environment (assuming we follow Leave No Trace principles).




8. Hiking can be done with minimal equipment. All you need are a good pair of boots, the appropriate apparel so you stay comfortable on the trail, water, and a pair of trekking poles if you like hilly climbs (and you want your knees to still work when you’re older!)




9. It can be done close to home!




10. It’s free!

Why do you like to hike?