- 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”.
- Hiking is an age friendly activity. As long as we can walk, we can hike!
- 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!
- Hiking is fantastic exercise. It is cardiovascular activity, helps reduce body fat, and strengthens our balance.
- Hiking provides us an avenue to explore nature and the beauties of the natural world.
- 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.
- Hiking is a sport that does not hurt the environment (assuming we follow Leave No Trace principles).
- 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!)
- It can be done close to home!
- It’s free!
Why do you like to hike?