Is hiking a hobby or a professional activity? I personally have asked myself this question so many times and I have come to conclude that hiking is a hobby.
As a professional hiker, I believe that hiking is a good hobby because of its tremendous benefits and which I will discuss in this article.
A hobby is an activity that we do to gain fun and happiness rather than any other material benefit.
When you go out hiking in a serene environment, you always feel a sigh of relief and some form of internal satisfaction.
Hiking is therefore a hobby because it is a source of happiness and fun. It is passive and joy-bringing.
Is Hiking A Hobby (What do Expert Hikers Say!)
Hiking is a great hobby for many people. Since it gets you outdoors, into nature, and away from technology and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Moreover, hiking is often thought of as a leisurely activity, but for some, it’s a full-blown hobby.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, there are many reasons to love hiking, here are some of them:
Hiking is a source of happiness
I am a living experience as I have always found happiness in hiking. The happiness comes in whenever you explore new sceneries away from your normal scenes.
Being away is in itself a source of happiness. Additionally, the new serene sites will always make you happy. It is a source of happiness and that qualifies it to be a hobby.
It is a voluntary engagement
You will agree with me that going out for a hike is something that comes automatically. You simply find yourself deciding to go out for a hike.
There is always an intrinsic urge that tells you to go out for that hike. That force is an urge that makes hiking a hobby rather than just an activity.
With hiking, you choose who to hike with
There is nothing that is as satisfying as hiking with people of choice. Hiking is therefore a hobby because we are at liberty to choose those that you want to hike with.
The mere fact that you align with birds of the same father is extremely satisfying and that is the essence of a hobby.
It is affordable and almost comes at no cost
How much can you spend if you go out for a hike in a public park for a day and set back home in the evening? It is an encounter that will be less than we expect.
Spending during a hike in a nearby public park is a choice and it is possible not to spend. It is inexpensive and that is the basis of a hobby.
You exercise without being forced to
With hiking, you will realize that you have exercised a great deal without even knowing.
No one forces you to go for a hike unlike when one forces you to cut down weight by exercising. An activity with such characteristics is a hobby.
People are Adopting Hiking As a Hobby!
Hiking is one of the most popular hobbies in America. According to a recent survey, almost 40% of Americans hike for recreation.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, hiking can be a great hobby for people of all ages.
There are many different ways to hike, from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. No matter how you do it, hiking is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.
If you’re new to hiking, there are 3-things you should know before you hit the trails.
- Ensure that you have the proper gear. Comfortable shoes or boots, plenty of water, snacks, and a map are essential for any hike.
- Start slow – there’s no need to tackle a difficult trail if you’re just getting started. Stick to shorter hikes and gradually work your way up as you get more experience.
- Be prepared for the unexpected. Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so always be aware of your surroundings and have a plan B in case you need to turn back early.
If you’re looking for some good places to hike in the USA, here are a few suggestions: The White Mountains in New Hampshire offer some of the best hiking in the Northeast US.
With over 1, 000 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone here – from easy walks through scenic forests to challenging summits of the tallest peaks.
Popular trails include Mount Washington, Franconia Ridge, Presidential Traverse, and Appalachian Trail.
In Maine, Acadia National Park is home to beautiful coastal landscapes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities here, with over 100 miles of trails crisscrossing the park.
Highlights include Cadillac Mountain (the tallest mountain on the US Atlantic coast), Beech Mountain Loop Trail, Jordan Pond Pathway, and Ocean Path.
Crucial FAQs
Why do people enjoy hiking?
People enjoy hiking because it is an activity with lots of fun, offers opportunities for sightseeing, and is a source of exercise. It is also inexpensive and requires not an instructor.
Can hiking be a passion?
Hiking brings about extreme enthusiasm and extreme excitement. It is because of the fact that it makes people happy that we can conclude that it can be a passion.
What is so fun about hiking?
Exposure to new sites and the company of friends is fun as far as hiking is concerned.
Hiking is also an activity where you move from your usual place to another place. Change of scene is fun and so is hiking.
Are hikers happier?
Indeed, hikers are always a happy lot. That is because hiking is a source of self-cultivated happiness.
Hiking with friends of choice and to the different sites makes hikers happier than non-hikers.
Is hiking good for depression?
Depression is a feeling of extreme sadness that leads to a lack of interest in anything that matters.
The best remedy for depression is hiking because it helps one to change scenes and that is so refreshing and can slowly cultivate interest in life.
Why is hiking so relaxing?
Hiking is a source of extreme relaxation because of the change of sites and it is a voluntary activity that makes one so relaxed and you don’t feel coerced to do it.
Hiking is a choice and that fact alone is so satisfying.
How Do I Take Hiking As a Hobby?
Hiking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and it’s also a great workout and can help improve your overall fitness level.
If you’re thinking about taking up hiking as a hobby, consider these 3 crucial factors:
Start small: Don’t try to tackle an advanced hike right off the bat. Choose trails that are short and not too challenging at first.
As you get more experience, you can gradually work your way up to longer and more difficult hikes.
Invest in some good gear: A comfortable pair of shoes or boots is essential for any hiker, as is clothing that will protect you from the elements (think layers that can be added or removed as needed).
You might also want to invest in some basic camping gear if you plan on doing any overnight hikes.
Find a hiking buddy (or two): Hiking with someone else can make the experience more enjoyable and can also be safer than hiking alone.
Is Hiking a Cheap Hobby?
Hiking is often thought of as a cheap hobby – and for the most part, it is. There are very few costs associated with hiking, especially if you already have the necessary gear like comfortable shoes and clothing.
If you’re planning on hiking in remote or wilderness areas, you’ll need to factor in the cost of transportation. Getting to and from your trailhead can be expensive, especially if you don’t have your own vehicle.
You may need to take a bus, taxi, or even rent a car just to get to where you’re going.
Some trails may require an entrance fee or permit. This is usually only the case for popular trails located in national parks or other protected areas.
The cost of these permits is usually very reasonable, but it’s something to keep in mind nonetheless.
While not required, purchasing some basic hiking gear can make your experience more enjoyable (and safer).
Things like a good pair of walking boots/shoes, a hat or headband to protect against the sun/elements, and insect repellent can all be helpful (especially if you’re hiking during the summer months).
These items don’t have to be expensive – there are plenty of affordable options available – but they will add slightly to the overall cost of your hike.
Is Hiking a Skill?
Hiking is an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
While it is true that some hikes may be more challenging than others, anyone can learn the basic skills needed to hike safely and enjoyably.
While hiking may not seem like a difficult skill at first glance, there are definitely a few things to keep in mind in order to hike safely and enjoyably.
My Verdict
Yes, hiking is definitely a good hobby with lots of passion and fun!
Hiking is a hobby because it is a source of self-made happiness, it is a voluntary activity, it allows you to choose who you hike or hang out with, and it is less costly as compared to other outdoor activities.
Hiking is the best activity for your leisure.
Hiking can turn into passion, it is a source of relaxation and it can be a remedy for depression for people who exemplify extreme sadness and lack of interest in doing anything that matters.
Hiking is fun and that is why hikers are happier than ordinary people.
