Hiking outdoors has many perks: the fresh air, beautiful views, changes in smells and sounds. Whether you are a day hiker or a multi-day hiker, if you have found yourself on this page, you’ll be able to relate to at least one if not more of these points.
We are Collectors
We are a different kind of collector. As a hiker we search for stunning views and collect them like others collect stamps or coins. We take pictures and cherish them because it takes us back to that very moment. Sometimes, displaying them on our walls at home or social media platforms because of its value to us.
No pain, no gain
The purpose of our very being is to get to the waterfall, lookout point or make it across that bridge. To test our limits because no challenge is without reward. We deal with all kinds of elements and shrug it off as if its ‘’no big deal.’’
We are NEVER bored
In a world such as ours, if we are bored its because we aren’t reaching high enough. We are often thought to be a ‘’busy body’’ but, find ourselves most relaxed outdoors. Nature calms our thoughts, eases our body and speaks to us like nothing else can. Finding ourselves captivated by a dew droplet on a leaf or the rays of the sun as it rises.
Curious much?
We are extremely curious beings. In fact, we are so curious that sometimes it leads us off path. Sometimes, climbing rock formations or hills. Other times, using roots to get from one sturdy place to the other. All while, keeping safety in mind and having a friend to pair these adventures with.
What weekends away really mean
Planning any sort of trip is exciting – am I right? We love cabins or cottages deep in the forest because we like the feeling of being secluded. When we plan a getaway, we make sure to pair our escape with hiking trails.
I prefer hiking in the morning and enjoy having the rest of the day to lounge around. Sometimes, in a hammock while, other times cozening up by the fire – maybe with a good book.
Opportunities – taking the leap
When on hikes, we don’t look for the well-manicured path – that’s a walk to us. We look for the rough terrain and itch for the challenge. If we discover a waterfall, we want to get to the base of it, behind it, in front of it, we want all of its glory to surround our very beings. We are not scared to get wet and look for the excuse to take off our shoes to feel the earth.
We pack our backpacks well
Although, we aren’t ready to camp outside if we get lost, we are prepared in other aspects. We carry extra socks, band-aids, flashlights, battery packs, hand sanitizer, bug repellent, snacks and lots of water (sometimes, even a furbaby). In our backpacks, we carry these essentials because we want to feel safe, comfortable and that make us feel prepared in outdoors.
Its Healthy to Hike
Hiking is powerful! While, most cardio workouts aren’t my favourite, hiking will have me pushing myself. As a result, hiking can improve mood, stress levels and mental well-being. It has been linked in reducing risk of heart disease, lowering blood pressure & cholesterol. Even more, it will build strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, hips and lower legs.
So, its not always about the views – okay, maybe a little bit. However, it encourages our free-spirited nature to get out on the trails and discover something we never thought was there. Whether, it be something deep within ourselves or deep in the forest. We are happy to hike and leave no traces of our being there behind.
What makes you an avid hiker? Comment below on some of the things that best describe your hiking journey.