To Be a Hiker

 In a culture where productivity is a priority, many of us have trained our minds and bodies to do.  In the midst of accomplishing one goal, we often find ourselves planning our next task or pursuit.  But hiking is different.  The trail is an invitation to take a few steps and simply be there.  The images and remembrances of the daily grind give way to a new awareness.  You can hear the breeze moving through leaves, or see bags of pollen hanging off a bumbling bee.  You may feel changes in temperature or hear the piercing cry of a hawk.  Hiking can introduce you to the present moment.

A hiker is something you are the moment you set forth on a trail.  There are different types of hikes you can embark upon, ranging from a stroll through a field of wildflowers to a vertical battle with rhododendrons.  These hikes are classified based on their length, terrain, and difficulty.  The main types of hikes are nature walks, day hikes, backpacking, and thru-hiking.  There are other types of hiking that require additional skills and knowledge, including mountaineering, canyoneering, bushwhacking and coasteering.

Which trail you choose depends on your recreational purpose.  Nature walks are perfect for someone who wants to experience the natural world and learn more about it at a slow pace.  These types of hikes include wildflower walks and bird-watching and there are many local organizations that will guide your steps through the scenery.  A day hike can range from ½ mile to 10 miles and often has a destination such as a waterfall or mountain view.  If you want to spend a Saturday outside and get some exercise, you can choose a day hike based on your physical ability and the type of environment you’d like to see. 

 Backpacking is a multiple day hike in which you camp outside and carry everything you need on your back.  It is a great way to experience more remote areas that can’t be accessed in one day, yet it requires the strength to carry all your camping supplies.  Thru-hiking is an extended backpacking adventure for serious, experienced hikers.  A thru-hiker is one who hikes an entire trail over the course of consecutive days or months.  For example, over 9,000 people have thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine. 

 Whether you are seeking to summit a mountain or simply breathe a little fresh air, there is a trail out there for you.  Go meet it!