What is hiking?

Hiking is a recreational activity that involves walking in natural environments, typically along trails, mountains, forests, or countryside paths. It is one of the most accessible and enjoyable ways to explore the outdoors, combining physical exercise with an appreciation of nature.

Hikes can range from short, easy walks to multi-day treks through challenging terrain. Many people hike for fitness, relaxation, or adventure, while others enjoy the sense of peace and connection to nature it provides.

Beyond its physical benefits, hiking also offers mental and emotional rewards, reducing stress, improving mood, and fostering a deeper respect for the natural world.

Where to hike?

You can find hiking trails wherever you are. Leave the city and find the closest forest. Park the car and just start walking. It does not have to be toughest terrain or the steepest mountains and you do not need to be dressed up in the most expensive hiking gear. Go out and relax your mind, that is the most important aspect of hiking according to me.

If you need inspiration, there are tons of information online on where to go. Can also buy guidebooks over certain nationalparks and trails. One tip is to create a list of places that you would like to go to. Can be both places close to you or dream hikes, where you hike for several days. For more than one day hikes, planning is key. Then you would need to read up on the certain trail, get maps and plan the route and plan your pack based on the number of nights, season and how remote you will be.

What do you need?

What you need depends on the scope of the trip. To start with day hikes, you dont need much. Dress according the weather with proper shoes. Pack a backpack with either prepared food or bring a camp stove to cook on. Important to stay hydrated, so bring enough water with you. Safety is key, bring a small first aid kit. A map, digital or physical and compass is good in order to find your path. I will write later a more detailed packing list for both day trips and for longer hikes. But this will get you a long way, so out and hike!