Hiking
Hiking is walking over natural terrain, usually on established paths or trails. It ranges from short day walks to demanding multi-day journeys.
Hiking trail: A route across natural terrain intended for walking or other outdoor travel. Trails provide the usual routes for hiking and vary in surface, marking, and difficulty.
Day hiking: Hiking that begins and ends on the same day without an overnight stay outdoors. It is the simplest common format, requiring less equipment than an overnight journey.
Route planning: Selecting and preparing a travel route using distance, terrain, conditions, and available resources. A planned route sets the hike's expected duration, difficulty, and escape options.
Physical activity: Bodily movement that increases energy expenditure above resting levels. Hiking is a form of physical activity that can build endurance and strength.
Walking: Moving on foot by alternately lifting and setting down the feet. Hiking is a terrain-focused form of walking, often on trails away from streets.
Hiking boots: Durable footwear designed to protect and support feet on uneven outdoor terrain. Footwear affects traction, comfort, and protection on rough or wet trails.
Thru-hiking: Walking an entire long-distance trail in one continuous journey, usually over weeks or months. It extends hiking into a sustained journey requiring resupply and long-term planning.
Hiking pace: The rate at which a person travels on foot, commonly measured as time per distance. Pace estimates help hikers judge daylight, exertion, and arrival times.
Mental health: A person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Time outdoors and physical exertion can influence mood and stress.
Trail running: Running on unpaved paths through natural terrain. It uses many of the same routes but prioritizes running speed and impact.