"This is why I hike"

Posted by: Katie

"This is why I hike" - 04/03/11 10:48 PM

I thought it would be really neat to collectively put together a blog about what YOU love most about hiking.
I started thinking about it the other day when I was on a semi-routine training hike on a mediocre trail...and stopped in my tracks when I saw these beautiful rays of sun coming down through the clouds close to sunset. I stopped my boyfriend, pointed to the scene, and told him THIS is why I hike. I think nature is beautiful anywhere you go, and it reminds me I don't have to be somewhere classically "scenic" such as mountains, beach, etc to find breathtaking views.
But I know everyone has their own personal reasons as to why they hike, and I think it would be interesting to share.
If you would like to share, then send me a quote, short story, picture, video, anything meaningful to you that you have personally experienced that inspires you to hike (or keep hiking/backpacking)
The blog is http://thisiswhyihike.tumblr.com/
To submit...if you have a tumblr, you can use the submit page on the blog. If you don't have one, you can email me (sweetleaf1189 at gmail dot com) with your photo, story, quote, whatever, as well as the name you would like to go with it, and I will post it for you and credit you.

Please let me know if you have ANY ideas/suggestions for the blog. It's a developing idea and I haven't figured out exactly how it would be best to format it and everything, so if you have any ideas let me know (can just post in this topic).

PS - sorry if this is in the wrong forum, wasn't really sure where to put it.
Posted by: aimless

Re: "This is why I hike" - 04/04/11 01:46 PM

I hike, in part, because I've always hiked. My parents started me out on trails when I was just a tyke. But, obviously, as an adult, I could easily stop if I wanted to. I don't. I love it too much.

I agree that almost anywhere outdoors is beautiful. I do understand all those casual hikers who think they need a destination or viewpoint for every hike, or there's no point to it. For me, every step away from the trailhead is worth taking, all on its own.

I find sanity as well as peace and beauty in nature. Any place that has not been too intrusively tampered with by humans demonstrates a kind of balance and quiet good sense that we often lack in our built-up spaces. I especially like getting away from the noise of human activity.

Incidentally, walking/hiking is my sole exercise program, too. Using my body feels good, and walking feels ten times better to me than any artificial exercise like weight-lifting or jazzercise.

So, that's why I hike. grin
Posted by: Gershon

Re: "This is why I hike" - 07/24/11 07:24 AM

I'm one of those people who loves being in motion. There is a book "Bodies in Motion" that describes it. I'm not fidgety, but I'm happiest when I'm traveling long distances regardless of how. Running, driving, motorcycling, bicycling, hiking.

Planning for a long trip that is beyond the average person and below the extreme person is a lot of fun for me. I micro-plan to the extent that everything usually goes according to plan and the execution seems easy. That gives me satisfaction. Once I start the trip, I just chill and go at a steady pace knowing it will work out according to the plan. Usually I hit waypoints with the precision of a Japanese train, but without thinking about it while traveling by whatever means.

On Aug 2, we are going to attempt the Colorado Trail. I've calculated our speed in each mile based on the elevation changes and altitude and figure we will hit each stop pretty much right on time without thinking about it much while hiking. At this point, I know finishing is doubtful due to the possibility of snow at the end. Yes, I'll write all these down and compare it to the plan, but I won't obsess over it while we hike.

My excitement is more internally generated than externally generated. Yes, I enjoy the views, but what's going on internally while hiking is more fun.

As I age (I'm 58) I find I'm capable of more than when I was young. I've learned the art of staying below 80% of the level of where I'll feel fatigue and extending the distance because I never feel fatigue.

I still haven't answered the question. I guess the answer is "Because I have to."
Posted by: mana

Re: "This is why I hike" - 07/28/11 02:23 PM

What a great idea. I'll be sure to email you over my thoughts!