More people in the USA are hitting the trails. They love hiking outside. National Hiking Day is coming very soon. It happens every year on November 17. This day reminds everyone to enjoy nature. It is a great time to explore a path near you.
Millions of Americans now go hiking. You might know some of them. This outdoor activity has become very popular. Many new hikers are lacing up their boots.
Many Americans Are Now Hiking More
Hiking numbers are really climbing. They show a big increase. More people are choosing to walk in nature. This trend is easy to see.
Let’s look at some numbers. In 2017, about 49.6 million Americans hiked. This was already a lot of people. But even more joined in later years.
By 2022, the number grew much larger. About 59.5 million Americans hiked. That is almost 60 million people. It shows a huge change.
This is a big jump. The number of hikers went up by 20%. This happened in just five years. That is very fast growth for any activity.
| Year | Hikers in USA |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 49.6 million |
| 2022 | 59.5 million |
Who are these new hikers? Younger people lead the way. Many folks from Gen Z enjoy hiking. Millennials also love to explore trails. Families with kids are also joining in. They find fun adventures together.
This means many different people hike. All ages and groups are finding joy. They like being outdoors. Are you one of them?
Why More People Love to Hike
Why do so many people hike now? There are many good reasons. Hiking helps your body. It helps your mind too. It connects you to nature.
First, hiking is good for your health. It makes your muscles strong. Your heart gets a good workout. Walking on trails can improve your balance. You also get more energy. It is a simple way to stay fit.
Second, it helps your mind. Life can feel busy. Hiking can lower your stress. It can make you feel happier. Many people sleep better after a hike. Being outside helps you relax. It gives you peace.
Third, you get to see nature. You breathe fresh air. You can see trees and animals. It feels good to be away from screens. This time outside is important. It helps you feel calm.
Fourth, hiking can save you money. Many trails are free to use. You do not need expensive gear to start. It is a low-cost activity. This makes it open to more people.
Fifth, hiking builds community. You can hike with friends. You can meet new people. Many groups go hiking together. It is a good way to bond. You share special moments on the trail.
The American Hiking Society helps protect trails. They work hard for hikers. They also share great tips. They want everyone to hike safely. You can learn more about them. Visit their website for more information about American Hiking Society activities.
Start Your Own Hiking Adventure
Are you ready to try hiking? It is easy to start. You do not need to be an expert. Just follow a few simple tips. These tips will keep you safe and happy.
Here are some good ideas:
- Start small. Pick an easy path first.
- Wear good shoes. Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers work best.
- Bring water. You need to stay hydrated.
- Pack snacks. Energy bars or fruit are good choices.
- Check the weather. Dress for sun, rain, or cold.
Before you leave, tell someone your plan. Let them know where you are going. Tell them when you expect to be back. This is a very important safety step.
Always stay on marked paths. Do not wander off the trail. This keeps you safe. It also protects nature. You want to leave the trail as you found it. This is called “Leave No Trace.”
What else should you bring? Think about sunscreen. Bug spray can be helpful too. A small first-aid kit is always smart. You can handle small cuts or scrapes. It is good to be prepared.
The USA has many amazing places to hike. You can find a path nearby. Many national parks have trails. State parks also offer great options. Famous places include:
- The Appalachian Trail
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Zion National Park
- Glacier National Park
- Rocky Mountain National Park
These big parks offer huge adventures. But local trails are also wonderful. Check your city or county parks. They often have walking paths. They are perfect for a quick escape.
Remember, hiking is for everyone. It helps your body. It calms your mind. It lets you see beautiful places. So grab your shoes. Find a trail. Enjoy the great outdoors this National Hiking Day!
You can find more safety tips for hiking on government sites. The National Park Service offers good advice. Check out their guide for safe hiking in national parks.
