Hiking, walking in nature as a recreational activity
Especially among those with sedentary occupations, hiking is a natural exercise that promotes physical fitness, is
economical and convenient, and requires no special equipment. Because hikers can walk as far as they want, there is no
physical strain unless they walk among hills or mountains.
Many persons walk alone, mainly on weekends or holidays, but youth clubs and other groups arrange rambles, or hikes. The
normal length of the walk undertaken is 7 to 12 miles (11 to 19 km) for a half day or 12 to 20 miles (19 to 32 km) for a
full day.
Those organized rambles, combining exercise with enjoyment of the countryside, are in country districts surrounding
large towns and follow a planned route. Most densely populated European towns have hiking trails outside them.
