What is National Hiking Day, and why is it worth celebrating? It is one of the most important holidays you can celebrate healthfully. 

National Hiking Day or Take A Hike Day urges everyone to go hiking and explore the trails every 17th day of November. It was created to remind everyone that humans are both inhabitants of the wild and residents of society.

What is hiking? Hiking is defined as a long stroll in a natural area, such as a park, the mountains, or the woods. It helps to renew the human connection with nature while also aiding in the maintenance of healthy hearts and bodies. It is a popular athletic recreation all around the world. 

The National Trails System Act was passed in 1968. In 1976, the American Hiking Society established National Take a Hike Day. The federal government recognizes National Recreation Trails with the cooperation of any federal, county, tribe, regional, non-governmental, or private body with control over these areas. 

How To Observe National Hiking Day

Go hiking.

This holiday's major goal is to inspire everyone to go hiking at least once in their lives—to at least meander around the wilderness and enjoy the nature that surrounds them. Hiking has the advantage of allowing you to tailor the duration and intensity of your hike to your fitness level and skills.

You can always start with something short and simple and progress from there. Take a break from your office desk and air-conditioned rooms and try to take advantage of the nature that is free for everyone. Prepare proper shoes, bring a bite, take a friend, and go for a walk and enjoy the fresh air and scenery.

Share your experience.

Share your hiking experiences on social media and pass along some helpful hiking suggestions. You’ll never know how many people around you haven't attempted hiking because they don't know how or lack the confidence. Inspire them and assist them in planning their first-ever hiking trip. 

And if you are one of those who are planning to try hiking one of these days, you are free to join any hiking groups online. Hiking is much more enjoyable when joined by like-minded others. Choose a hiking partner that travels at a comparable pace and appreciates nature in the same way you do.

Join a hiking club.

Join hiking organizations and stay connected, updated, and informed about your local trails. There are numerous ones, and you can join them to make more friends. When it comes to hiking activities, organizations are quite helpful since they offer a variety of leisure activities, and you may find new trails when hiking in a group.

Safety Tips for Hiking

Rain Check 

It is very critical for you to check the weather on the date you plan to take a hike. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and consider conditions such as altitude, thunderstorms, and rain. You must consider your equipment and clothing based on the predicted temperatures. 

Make A Planned Route

Knowing your route ahead is a critical safety precaution. It is important that someone else be informed of this just in case of an emergency. Once the route has been determined, the journey to the starting point must be planned. Look for phones or neighboring establishments that you may visit or contact.

Water Check

Never forget to bring water or check for a natural water source that is drinkable where you can refill your jugs. By refilling your hydration system along the path, you can minimize the volume of weight you'll be carrying. When hiking in warm weather, you will sweat a lot, and you will need water to replenish the energy you lost.

Study The Wild 

It is critical to be familiar with the natural risks of the area. Avalanches, floods, and falling rocks are the most common natural hazards. In most situations, information regarding these threats can be found on government websites, newsgroups, and forums. 

If these threats are common, there will most likely be warning signs. There will also be wild animals, so you need to be prepared for whatever you may encounter while hiking.

Bring Essential Equipment

Numerous hiking and scouting organizations recommend them. Listed below is a list of the most important hiking equipment:

• Map
• Compass
• Sun Protection (Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen)
• Extra Clothes
• Flashlight
• First-Aid Kit
• A match or a lighter
• Knife
• Extra Food and Water 

The ultimate purpose of bringing these basics is to keep you safe in the wilderness. These products will not only benefit you, but will also benefit other hikers that may need help. These items are necessary and may require different types depending on your hiking environment and weather.  

The Leave No Trace Principle

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics promotes a set of seven principles and best practices that are widely recognized and followed by outdoor enthusiasts to help ensure that our appreciation of the environment is not diminished by our personal effects. 

Key Takeaways

In general, hiking is a relaxing way to experience and discover nature. National Hiking Day is a great way to start something new. Mountaineering, which includes walking, trekking, and climbing mountains, includes this outdoor pastime of enjoying the fresh air and mountains. 

Whether you're a novice or an experienced hiker, you should expect to wake up the next day with sore legs from your first few hikes. Don't fret because you can always relieve that pain by using a massage gun, even if you stay at home after your hike.

Prepare ahead of time, hike and camp on sturdy surfaces, properly dispose of garbage, leave what you discover, limit campfire effects, respect wildlife, and be courteous of other hikers. Hike safely and be mindful of everything you come across. So, plan your trip, know your trails, and enjoy a hike. Happy hiking and stay safe, everyone!