Hiking is just a walk in to the woods, so why do some people like hiking so much. We have all met them the crazy hiker who always talks about their last trip to the trails. But why are they so fanatical about a walk in the woods. Here are 5 reasons people like hiking.
1 Hiking Allows you to enjoy Nature
Everyone enjoys nature to varying degrees. Some are just interesting in the popular view points and snapping a photo while others like the peace of getting away from it all. Hiking allows everyone to enjoy nature at their own pace. While riding through the mountains with the top down is fun there’s no better way to enjoy nature than by slowing down and taking a walk for no reason other than to be in the woods.
2 Hiking is Great Physical Exercise
Exercise can really suck at times. Hours on the treadmill or stationary bike should be reserved only as a last resort when working to a healthier lifestyle. Hiking is a perfect low impact exercise which contributes to why people like it so much. A couple hours on the trails often flies by. The varying terrain and hills work different muscles and can make some portions of the tail much more taxing than simply walking on flat ground.
3 Hiking Promotes Mental Health
Getting out in nature and away from the stress of modern life can have amazing benefits to mental health. Hiking allows your mind to wander and work though problems you have been having. While walking around the city can help some hiking forces you off your phone due to the rocks and roots on the trail and replaces the sounds of the city with gentle trickling of a stream or wind through the leaves.
4 Hiking can be a Social Activity
While hiking alone is great to allow you some time to yourself and work out problems. Hiking is a social activity if you make it one. You are sure to strike up a conversation with your hiking partners. Sharing the struggle of climbing the mountain and the success of reaching the top is sure to create a bond other activates lack. Even hiking alone can be social to some extent you are sure to meet other like minded hikers at the trail head or overlooks.
5 Hiking is an Affordable Hobby
There’s not many hobbies that only require the clothes on your back and a good pair of shoes. That’s all you need to start hiking and definitely contributes to why so many people like it. While yes there are many expensive options for day packs and shoes with all kinds of grip. Hiking requires very little to get started. Anyone can go hiking this afternoon to try it without spending a dime.