I love to walk. When we were in California, I hiked and walked as much as possible. There’s just something about being out in nature with nothing but the open road (or trail) in front of me. Whether on a dirt trail or a sidewalk, urban hiking is a terrific way to forget about the concerns of daily life for a while.
If you have been following my journey this summer, you will know that I have been spending A LOT of time walking outside doing the virtual fitness challenges. Most of this time has been spent A L O N E. And honestly, I like it that way. Being alone on the open road or trail gives me time to clear my head, take in a little nature, and catch up on a couple of favorite podcasts.
These daily morning walks are one of my favorite activities and adds a great deal of movement in my day, something we all could use more of. During the week I stay close to home but on Saturdays, I get to take my walks longer and farther. That is when I discovered Urban Hiking.
Somewhere between a walk and a hike, urban hiking is a fun new trend that helps keep my workouts fresh and get in a good workout minus wandering too far from home. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about urban hiking.
What Is Urban Hiking?
Not unlike many outdoor activities, urban hiking is about goal setting, discovering new places, getting a workout, and being outdoors. Revamping the fun of hiking in nature, urban hiking uses city and suburban environments to achieve the same kind of calorie-shedding exercise session. Rather than mountains and dirt paths, hikers use city parks, stairways, and bike paths that link roads and new city regions.
Hikes can be any distance from five to 40 miles or more and are intended to be self-sustaining (meaning: all gear is carried in a backpack, just like on a hiking trail). Hikes can be completed alone for a more introspective and independent experience or as a group if you relish the additional inspiration and company of training with others.
Check out THIS post I wrote about what I carry when I am on my hikes and walks.
Why Urban Hiking?
Urban hiking is a wonderful way to journey and discover a new town or city while witnessing the little elements of the adjacent neighborhoods frequently overlooked when driving past.
Additionally, it stimulates your brain to recognize it is doing and seeing something brand new. It is a way to tell your brain that it needs to pay attention to the new experiences. It is a great way to create new neural pathways in the brain through the theory of neuroplasticity.
Want to know how to plan an urban hike? Check out THIS post.
