Is Hiking Just Walking or There is more to it

Although the terms hiking and walking are taken as substitutes to each other, the idea cannot be completely agreeable. The similarities between the two cannot be ignored but there are many differences which fall them apart.

Following are a few differences between hiking and walking.

The difference of altitude (height)

The most noteworthy difference between the two is that of height. The hiking trails generally lead up to elevation i.e. to a high place e.g. reaching at a mountain’s top or hiking on a mountain range to conquer it.

Walking, on the other hand, is short and doesn’t necessarily involve the elevation element. It normally means walking in a community park or walking in any environment (be it urban, semi urban, or rural). Walking in nature cannot be considered a hike because it lacks the element of height. They are only nature walks.

The Difference of Terrain

One significant difference between the two is that of terrain. It is important to have an awareness about terrain before going for a hike. One must be physically prepared and have proper hiking gear with him.

Hiking terrain can be the paths which can be rocky, sloppy, swampy, or forested. They are more natural and rougher. They are harder to hike on than mountain trails. It is not an unusual thing to pass by a stream during a hike.

On the contrary, the walking trails in the park or any other place in a city have shorter or paved terrain. These paths are constructed with concrete, sand, gravel and Asphalt and are smooth and even surfaced. Also, a specific gear is required to walk on it. One can be even comfortable in rubber shoes to walk on them.

Difference of Distance

The hiking journey is relatively longer than a walk. It comprises of long distance with steeper slopes

Comparatively, walking in a city or town may be longer but it has shorter distances. The walk can be anywhere like on sand, beach or it can be in nature, but it is shorter than a hike.

Difference of requirements

Another difference is that of requirements as hiking demands certain conditions to be followed which are not required in a walk.

One can easily go for a walk wearing a comfortable tracking suit and shoes and a water bottle in his hand which is not compulsory. Hiking, on the contrary, demands a person to prepare himself both physically and mentally before doing it.

A backpack, bigger in size with plenty of water bottles, food and clothes are required for the trip. Trekking poles are also helpful to a person on a terrain if it is uneven. Waterproof clothes which should also be breathable and special hiking shoes are the much-needed things.

A first aid box is also necessary to be taken along with to meet any accident or insect bite.

Hiking may involve camping if required because hiking is normally done on mountainous tracks or in woods, the hikers get tired and need to take rest before continuing again. Walking in the woods is different from hiking in the forest if the intention is only pleasure seeking from mother nature

An exercise before going for a hike is a must for physical and mental readiness. One can do trekking or walk fast as an exercise.

one should not get scared and convince his inner self for a hike. Hiking can be helpful in lessening anxiety and boosting self-esteem. It makes a person proud and feel great.

Environmental Difference

We have already discussed how hiking and walking are done in different environments. Walking generally occurs around the cities and towns, in urban entities.

Whereas hiking happens on mountains, in woods or in any natural landscapes where one can breath in fresh air. So, he can choose between the two deciding on which experience could be better.

Walking turns Into a Hiking: Sometimes a walk seems to turn into a hike if it requires more effort and energy.

Health benefits of hiking and walking

Either you opt for hiking or walking, both are health beneficial because exercises keeps you fit and healthy. They help you in reducing weight, boosting your immune system and lessen heart diseases.

So, whether a person chooses hiking or walking, both are exciting to do. But anyone looking for an outdoor activity must go hiking. It is not only adventurous but a thrilling recreation for a person.

One can always do an indoor walk. One of the benefits of indoor walking is that it can keep a person away from the extreme weather and busy city. Even running on a treadmill can be done with ease.

Also walking is safer than hiking which demands safety and experience. It involves dangers of falling, insect biting, dehydration and getting lost.

Although, It requires a considerable effort on a hiking trail to move on a rough terrain and face the elevation onwards, it consequently burns more calories because a person is not only going on an uneven path but also carrying a backpack along.

In short, walking can be done anywhere on a flat or even surface. Hiking involves difficult terrain like hills and mountains. Unlike walking, special equipment is required to ensure a person’s safety. Also, the weather can make hiking difficult.

Walking is a more relaxed exercise as compared to hiking which is very tiring but the natural wonders and health benefits it offers really makes a trip worthwhile. Exploring the wilderness in hiking boots and sharing laughter with people on the trek is a great fun Indeed.

To sum up, Hiking is more health effective than walking. Walking is a good thing but going for a hike with a backpack on your shoulder gives you an unexplainable feeling.

Besides, friends or family members may become a part of our journey to make it more exciting and thrilling. Hiking is the right choice for a nature loving person. There is not only adventure but camping also bonds him with friends.

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