Hiking

Hiking is the recreational activity of walking leisurely or vigorously, usually over long distances, through trails and nature settings for pleasure and exercise. Hiking is most commonly undertaken as leisurely strolls through city parks and trails. Many participants undertake longer expeditions, “backpacking” through mountain ranges and national parks. Urbanization and growing environmental concerns, as well as consciousness surrounding fitness and quality of life, are some of the predominant reasons people have for hiking and walking. Many outdoor and hiking clubs are established as initiatives to preserve natural areas and trails. Trails for hiking can present in many levels of difficulty, from flat urban parks to more rugged and steep landscapes of rural countryside.

In North America, hiking as a purposeful form of recreation emerged in the 19th century as a response to industrialization, as increased urbanization led to demands for protected access to open green spaces and clean air. In response, cities began opening up large public parks with naturalistic landscape that were accessible to all people regardless of socioeconomic status. Hiking for pleasure steadily increased in popularity throughout the 20th century and remains one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities today.

Hiking occurs all year round.

Males and female of diverse ages and ethnocultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Hiking is financially accessible to most people, although cultural background and geographic proximity can limit certain peoples' likelihood of participating.