If you are looking for a new fun activity to start the new year off right. Here are 8 reasons why you should start hiking. I would also like to thank my father for taking my dog and I out for a hike up Buck Mountain which is where all these photos came from.

1. Time stands still.

When you are out in the woods time doesn't matter. All the matters is where you are and where you are going. You follow the trail. It allows your mind time to explore itself and the mind of the people you are hiking with. What better time than to build on your relationships.

2. It's exercise.

When you exercise you release endorphins that boost your mood. It's a perfect way to wind down and be happier and more a peace with yourself and the world. Since you will be out in nature not stuck in a smelly gym.

3. It can be an adrenaline rush.

Maybe you have been feeling stuck and bored. Well go hike a mountain. There will be twists and turns and steep parts that you might not think you can handle. But the rush you get when you trie and succeed will feel amazing. This is especially true in the winter. Ice can make even an easy trail into a challenge.

4.You can bring your dog.

Your pup will be so happy to go out and do something fun with you. It will also help you feel better having your dog with you. The joy will only double when you see your best friend running up the trail and running back to you to check in.

5. It's a cheap vacation.

Especially as a college student it's hard to find the cash to go out and travel and see the world. Hiking can help give you a new perspective of a familiar place making it feel like you've traveled to a whole new world.

6. It can help you reach goals.

Hiking is great exercise as I mentioned earlier and will help with your new year's resolution to become healthier and fitter. It also doesn't feel like working out because you will be so busy looking at the beauty around you. Hiking can also be a great confidence booster. You feel accomplished when you reach your destination.

7. There are lots of places to go.

Most states have natural preserves or state parks where you can go exploring without breaking the bank. Look around your area to see if you can find a few. It doesn't have to be a huge mountain to have fun. It could be by the river or down into a valley.

8. It can help you relax.

After all the energy it took to go hiking it will be easier to relax and sleep after. Stress and anxiety can make sleeping and relaxing hard but after hiking you'll be too tired to even think about thinking