November 17 - Take a Hike Day

nPosted on November 17, 2019
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Key Points

nThe American Hiking Society promotes National Trails Day on the first Saturday in June and Take a Hike Day on November 17.
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nWalking, hiking, trekking…
nWhat’s the difference?
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nWalking is something we do all the time – even when just going from our bedroom to the bathroom! If we walk for fun or exercise, that can be around the block, on sidewalks; in a park, on a dirt trail; up and down the beach, on sand…well, actually, ANYWHERE!
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nWe usually use the word hiking to mean a special walk on prepared and probably marked trails. You can find hiking trails in cities (we have a local trail that connects several city parks through some undeveloped land), in the deepest wilderness, around lakes, and leading to special features like waterfalls. Hikers often carry water, snacks, or even a picnic meal, but many hikes do not necessitate carrying anything other than a cell phone and a water bottle.
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nTrekking usually means a more rugged type of walking, longer and harder than a hike. A trek may involve walking on very narrow, often unmarked trails or even trails made by wildlife. Maybe even no trails at all! It often involves more up-and-down, mountainous terrain and more extreme weather. It generally necessitates multiple days of walking and therefore also camping at night, so trekkers have to carry or pack in special survival equipment, food, and water. (Mountaineering is a kind of trekking that usually involves climbing as well as walking.)
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nIf you live in the U.S., this resource can help you find hikes near your home. You can also use Google, park rangers, and other resources to discover hikes wherever you are traveling…
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nRemember, hiking is good for you in several different ways. Our bodies need exercise, and hiking (and walking generally) is better for our joints and our cardiovascular systems than most activities. Also, research shows that being outside, in nature, is beneficial to mental and physical well-being. Hiking is walking in nature – a real two-fer!
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