Why Do I Love Hiking? | Hikers University

I have been hiking since I was a young child. The reasons why I love hiking now are the same reasons why I fell in love with it as a kid.

The average person only hikes three times per year, which is a shame because hiking is an amazing way to get exercise, see new places, and spend time with friends and family.

I love hiking because it's a great way to clear my head and relax. There's something about being in nature that just calms me down and helps me forget about my worries. And even though it can be tough at times, I always feel so accomplished after a hike. It also serves as a great workout.

There's nothing quite like getting outside and into nature. When I'm hiking, I feel like I can breathe more deeply and really take in my surroundings. The fresh air and the sounds of the birds make me feel so alive! Hiking is a great way to get exercise, connect with nature, and relax. In this article, we'll explore some of the reasons why hiking is such a beloved pastime.

Since I was a young child, I have been hiking, and it has always been one of my favorite activities. In the past few years, I have hiked some of the most popular trails in the U.S.A., including the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. So, if you're looking for someone who knows a thing or two about hiking, you've come to the right place.

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Discover New Corners

One of the best things about hiking is that it can take you to some amazing places. Whether you're exploring a new corner of the world or venturing into a familiar area in a new way, there's always something new to see. When I hike, I love discovering all sorts of interesting plants and animals. Every hike is an opportunity for adventure and exploration.

It can take you to places that are difficult to reach by car, and it gives you the opportunity to really take in your surroundings. There are hiking trails of all different levels of difficulty, so there is sure to be one that is perfect for you. And, if you get tired of hiking the same old trails, you can always explore new ones. There are endless possibilities when it comes to hiking, and that is one of the things that makes it so great.

Get Exercise and Fresh Air

Hiking is a great way to get exercise and fresh air. In fact, according to CaloriesBurnedHQ, hiking can burn 300-600 per hour. That's definitely enough to make me break out into a sweat! And while I'm getting my workout, I'm also taking in the fresh air and enjoying the beauty of nature. It's a win-win situation.

There are many different types of hiking, from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. No matter what type of hike you choose, you'll get a great workout while enjoying the beauty of nature. It's also a great way to relax and de-stress. When I'm feeling stressed, I often head out for a hike. The fresh air and the peace of nature help me to clear my head and feel more relaxed.

Hiking Rejuvenates and Increases Happiness

Hiking isn't just good for your physical health, and it's also good for your mental health. Studies have shown that time in nature can increase happiness and reduce stress. So next time you're feeling down, go for a hike! The fresh air and exercise will do you good.

Studies have shown that time spent in nature can increase happiness and overall life satisfaction levels. In fact, one study found that taking a 90-minute hike in a natural setting can lead to decreased levels of rumination, a type of negative thinking associated with depression.

In addition to increasing happiness, hiking can also help to rejuvenate you.  A hike is often just what   I need when I feel tired or burned out. The fresh air and the peacefulness of nature help me to feel refreshed and recharged. And when I return from my hike, I often find that I have more energy and motivation than before.

It's A Non-Competitive Activity

Hiking is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. It's a non-competitive activity, so you can go at your own pace and enjoy the scenery. There's no need to worry about keeping up with anyone else. You can hike alone or with a group, depending on what you're looking for.

I often hike with my family or friends, but there are times when I like to hike alone. When I'm hiking solo, I can really take in all the sights and sounds around me. I don't have to worry about keeping up with anyone else, so I can go at my own pace and really savor the experience.

Whether you're young or old, fit or not so fit, hiking is an activity that everyone can enjoy. So get out there and give it a try! You might just fall in love with it as I have.

Forces Me To Disconnect

In this day and age, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I often struggle to disconnect from the constant drone of technology that inundates my life. It can be difficult to find a moment of silence between work obligations, social media, and the never-ending stream of news. But for me, hiking is one of the best ways to force myself to disconnect.

There's no cell service and no WiFi when I'm out on the trail, so I'm completely cut off from the outside world. And while that might sound stressful to some people, I find it incredibly liberating. I'm free to explore and take in my surroundings without distractions. I can clear my mind and just be in the moment. And when I hike with friends, it's a great opportunity to have some good old-fashioned face-to-face conversation.

So if you're looking for a way to disconnect from the digital world, hiking is definitely worth a try. You might just find that it's the perfect way to unwind and recharge.

Doesn't Break My Bank

Hiking is a great activity because it doesn't require a lot of expensive gear. Sure, you can spend a lot of money on hiking clothes and equipment, but you don't have to.

I remember when I first started hiking, I didn't have any fancy gear. I would just throw on an old pair of sneakers and head out the door. And while that's not the best way to hike (you should really invest in a good pair of hiking boots!), it worked for me at the time.

Nowadays, there are all sorts of high-tech hiking gadgets on the market. But unless you're an avid hiker, you don't need to go out and buy all the latest gear. Just start with the basics and see how it goes. You can always upgrade later if you find that you enjoy hiking.

Makes Me More Mindful

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and forget to appreciate the little things. But when I'm out on a hike, I find that I'm much more mindful of my surroundings. I take time to notice the small details that I would normally miss.

The sound of the leaves rustling in the wind. The sunlight filtered through the trees. The smell of wildflowers in the air. When you're hiking, you can't help but be present in the moment and appreciate all that nature has to offer.

And for me, that's one of the best parts about hiking. It makes me slow down and really savor life. It reminds me that there's more to this world than just the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Makes Me Feel Small

There's something about being in nature that makes me feel small. When I'm surrounded by towering mountains and vast open spaces, I can't help but feel a sense of wonder. It's a humbling experience that reminds me of how big this world really is.

In our day-to-day lives, it's easy to get caught up in our own little worlds. We get so wrapped up in our own problems and concerns that we forget about the rest of the world. But when I'm out on a hike, I'm reminded of just how small I am in the grand scheme of things. And for me, that's one of the most magical things about hiking.

It's A Great Workout

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise. It's low impact, so it's easy on your joints, and it's a great way to get your heart rate up. And depending on the terrain, it can be as easy or as difficult as you want it to be.

I love hiking because it's such a great workout. I don't have to go to the gym or run on a treadmill. I can just put on my hiking boots and head out the door. And I always feel so much better after a hike. I have more energy, and I sleep better at night.

I Sleep Better At Night

One of the benefits of hiking is that it helps you sleep better at night. When you get a good workout during the day, it's easier to fall asleep at night. And when you're spending time outdoors in natural light, it helps to regulate your body's sleep cycle.

I used to have a lot of trouble sleeping at night. But ever since I started hiking regularly, I've noticed a big difference. I'm able to fall asleep more easily, and I stay asleep for longer periods. And as an added bonus, I don't wake up feeling groggy in the morning.

So if you're looking for a way to improve your sleep, hiking might be worth a try.

About THE AUTHOR

Peter Brooks

Peter Brooks

I’m a hiker, backpacker, and general outdoor enthusiast. I started hiking out of college while working for the National Forest Service, and have been hiking ever since. I’ve been solo hiking and leading hiking groups for two decades and have completed hundreds of small hikes and some majorones such as the Appalachian Train and the Pacific Crest Trail, and hiked on four continents. I’d love to share some of my insight with you.

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