Hiking is a state of mind. To some people, it might just be for exercise, others for the view at the summit, but for me, it’s more than that. Every bit along the way is enjoyable. Here is why I love hiking.
Trekking up the side of a mountain is something that has always made me genuinely happy. Every time I hop in my car and drive to a new/or previously hiked trailhead, I’m giddy. It’s a sense of freedom. I know when I park my car at the tiny parking lot at the base of a mountain, a fun adventure awaits me.
I love stepping onto a trail and feeling exhilarated. It’s an adventure that is ever-changing, different each time you step onto the path. Whether the leaves on the trees are changing, blooming, or snow covers the barren branches, it’s beautiful. Sometimes, we take for granted what this Earth provides us though every time I hike I’m reminded of the natural beauties and phenomena tucked away in the mountains. I absolutely love when you’re hiking up the trail and the sun filters down between the leaves of the trees, highlighting the different shades of green. Or, when you hear rustling in the fallen leaves and it’s a chipmunk or snake. One of the best parts about hiking is what you experience along the way.
I love how alive you feel. The air in the mountains is so clean and crisp like it could take all your problems away. The steep ascent expands your lungs to full capacity, making your chest ache and legs tired. But, that’s why I love it. Sure, you’re exercising, but it doesn’t feel like it. It feels like you’re doing something incredible- which you are. It’s not for the sole purpose of getting a workout in or burning calories, it’s beyond that. We hike for the adventure and the bonus of feeling alive.
I love the views. I don’t trek up mountains for the sole purpose of the views at the summit, but I have witnessed some incredible sights. It’s exhilarating, knowing that you climbed a mountain and get to experience nature from a vantage point made billions of years ago. When you’re at the summit enjoying the views, you feel literally on top of the world. Cue the Imagine Dragon song. But it also gives me a sense of perspective. When I’m looking around at towns in the distance, the lakes below me, or the mountains around me all problems and worries seem to drift away. It’s almost like you’re safe on this mountain and no one can touch you, that’s one of the best feelings in the world.
Hiking is special to me because it lets me be one with nature and discover the hidden beauties right in my own backyard. The joy and happiness I get from hiking is one no one could ever take away from me.
"I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees" — Henry David Thoreau
