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.