Hiking

Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking

• Why should I go hiking?

  Hiking is more than just a walk in nature—it’s a challenge for the body, a balm for the soul, and a way to connect with the world around us. For those of us who hit the trails regularly, it’s about more than just reaching a destination. It’s the solitude of a mountain ridge, the rhythm of your breath as you climb, and the honest simplicity of moving through a wild landscape.

  Hiking strips away distractions, grounding us in the moment—whether navigating a rocky ascent or pausing to admire a wildflower. The joy isn’t just in the destination, but in each step, each view, and the raw beauty of the journey itself.

• How fit do I need to be to start hiking?

  The beauty of hiking lies in its accessibility; you don’t need to be a seasoned athlete to step onto the trail. However, a certain level of fitness will enhance your experience and keep you safe.

  Starting with shorter, easier trails is a smart way to gauge your fitness and build stamina. These paths often feature gentle inclines and well-maintained surfaces, making them ideal for beginners. If you can comfortably walk briskly for 30 minutes and handle a few flights of stairs, you’re likely ready to embark on a short hike.

  As you grow more comfortable and confident, you can gradually tackle more challenging terrain. This might include steeper inclines or longer distances. Incorporating strength and endurance training into your routine—like brisk walking, jogging, or using stair machines—can prepare your body for the demands of hiking.

  Remember, it’s not just about cardiovascular fitness; building core strength and leg muscles will help you navigate uneven ground and carry a backpack more easily. Flexibility is important too, as it can prevent injuries and enhance your overall hiking experience.

  Ultimately, the best fitness preparation is to simply get outside and start exploring. Listen to your body, take it at your own pace, and allow yourself the space to enjoy the journey. Hiking is as much about the experience as it is about the exertion, and with time, you’ll find your rhythm on the trail.

• What is the difference between hiking and trekking?

  The difference between hiking and trekking may seem subtle, but for those of us who spend our time on the trail, the distinction is clear.

  Hiking typically refers to shorter, more leisurely walks on well-marked paths. It might be a day spent exploring a state park, following a familiar trail through rolling hills or along a forested ridge.

  Hiking is accessible, a way to reconnect with nature without straying too far from the comforts of civilization.

  Trekking, on the other hand, is a more rugged and immersive experience. It often spans multiple days, covering longer distances through remote, sometimes challenging terrain. Trekkers carry everything they need—gear, food, shelter—on their backs, venturing into landscapes where the path may be less clear and the comforts of modern life are far behind.

  Trekking demands endurance and a deeper commitment, pushing you physically and mentally in ways that hiking often doesn’t.

  In short, hiking is about taking a break from everyday life; trekking is about leaving it behind entirely. Both offer their own rewards, but the scale and intensity of a trek bring you closer to the wild, requiring not just a love of nature but a willingness to embrace its unpredictability.

• What age are most hikers?

  There’s no single age for hikers—hiking is an activity that transcends generations. But if you’ve spent enough time on the trail, you’ll notice the diversity in age ranges.

  Many hikers hit their stride in their 30s and 40s, when they’re often balancing a desire for adventure with fitness and the ability to take time away from work. However, there’s a significant presence of younger hikers in their 20s, often drawn to the thrill of exploration and the freedom of unstructured time.

  What might surprise some is the growing number of hikers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. For many, hiking becomes a way to stay active, maintain a deep connection with nature, and find tranquility in life’s later chapters. These seasoned hikers may not move as fast, but they bring with them a sense of patience, wisdom, and appreciation for the trail that comes with age.

  In truth, the trail belongs to everyone—whether you’re a teenager discovering the joys of the outdoors for the first time or a retiree savoring each step. Hiking isn’t about how old you are, but how open you are to the experience.

• What is the best country for hiking in the world?

  Naming the “best” country for hiking is an impossible task—each has its own allure, depending on what you’re looking for. That said, there are a few places that stand out, their landscapes woven into the mythology of hiking itself.

  Switzerland, France, and Italy, for instance, are practically synonymous with world-class hiking. The Alps offer a dramatic backdrop of jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and lush valleys, with a network of meticulously maintained trails that cater to everyone from day hikers to those tackling multi-week treks. The Tour du Mont Blanc, which winds through all three countries, is a must for serious hikers.

  New Zealand, with its raw and untamed beauty, is another contender. The South Island’s Great Walks—like the Routeburn or Milford Track—showcase a country where mountains, fjords, and forests collide in ways that feel almost otherworldly. Its trails can be remote, offering solitude and a profound connection to the natural world.

  Nepal deserves mention too, for it’s here that the Himalayas—home to the world’s highest peaks—test trekkers in ways few places can. The Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks are not just hikes; they’re pilgrimages into the heart of mountaineering history.

  Of course, places like Iceland, Patagonia, and the U.S. also offer exceptional hiking, each with its unique landscapes and challenges. Ultimately, the “best” country depends on what you seek—whether it’s alpine grandeur, remote wilderness, or something in between.