Hiking, an activity rooted in the mists of time, now shines a new light, becoming a bridge between the adventure of exploration and the inner journey of the human being.
For some years now, hiking, that is, the activity of walking in nature for several days along trails, has been experiencing a real explosion of interest and participation. More and more people are engaging in it with daily experiences, weekends and trips, and to achieve different goals: to exercise, to disconnect from the daily routine and routine life of population centers, to immerse themselves in unspoiled and regenerating environments, and, last but not least, to improve their relationship with themselves, through a new awareness of their bodies and emotions.
This is why hiking, a discipline that can combine all these experiences, becomes a great opportunity: we slow down, reflect and get to know each other better, while cultivating the spirit of adventure and respect for nature and the environment.
The history of hiking: a millennial path
Hiking, as a structured practice, has its roots in thehuman need for exploration, spirituality and connection with nature. But while it was originally related to the need for hunting, gathering, moving or pilgrimage, over time it has also evolved into a form of voluntary adventure and discovery. Before we delve further, it might be interesting to understand the difference between ‘hiking’ and ‘trekking,’ two terms that are often used interchangeably but hide important nuances. Find out more in our detailed article on the difference between hiking and trekking.
A development, this, that not by chance has grown in the modern and post-modern era, when precisely technology (from factories, to cars, to smartphones) has increasingly distanced us from the natural environment, the one made up of grass, trees, rocks, rivers, but also sounds, scents and colors to which, perhaps, we are no longer accustomed. Therefore, a new need has arisen, namely to take a step back and return to a contact with the elements, through authentic and immersive experiences, and with our self, rediscovering the pleasure of slowness and attention to detail, while also testing our physical and mental capacities.
Stationary hiking vs. touring hiking: two ways to travel
There are two main ways to practice hiking: sedentary and itinerant. Stationary hiking provides a base to return to after the various daily hikes, and is ideal for deepening your knowledge of a specific area without the need to move people and equipment every day. This is the most popular “formula” for many hiking trips such as those organized in Italy by the WeHike team..
In contrast, itinerant hiking, which is largely concerned with footpaths, pilgrimage routes and historical routes, involves daily travel, with overnight stays in different places along the way, and offers a more varied, dynamic and spiritual experience, which allows one to cover greater distances with a wide variety of environments and landscapes while appreciating the authentic soul of the area.
The benefits of hiking: a natural therapy
Whichever mode is preferred, the benefits of hiking are many and on many levels. Hiking improves physical health, boosting cardiovascular and muscular endurance, and contributes to mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety. Taking place outdoors also stimulates the production of endorphins, promoting feelings of well-being and relaxation.
Finally, the immersion in nature and the meditative pace of walking promote mindfulness, helping to restore inner balance and develop a new environmental and personal awareness.
The allure of adventure: why every journey is unique
So if there is one word that is able to hold together the different experiences and sensations related to hiking, it is undoubtedly “discovery.” Perhaps therein lies its appeal, the unique possibility of discovering and experiencing new things at every step, because every trail is a unique journey: even if we repeat it several times, that path or that path will always know how to tell us something new.
About the nature they are made of, the living things that inhabit it, our abilities and feelings, and our relationship with others, for example, our fellow adventurers. Hiking is an inexhaustible source of knowledge, experiences and emotions. Nature invites everyone to participate in this adventure: all that is left is to lace up your boots and follow the call.
Are you ready to turn words into steps? Join us on an unforgettable adventure with WeHike! Discover our hiking trip program for this year., where each trail tells a unique story and each step brings you closer to nature and to yourself. With WeHike, every hiking trip is more than a journey-it’s a journey of discovery, wellness, and adventure. From pristine trails to breathtaking views, we have taken care of every detail to provide you with a unique and emotionally rich experience.
