In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.

John Muir

I love to hike in nature, and although I don’t get out of the city as often as I would like, I try to make up for it by taking walks and spending as much time outdoors as possible. During a recent hike – while vacationing in the Texas Hill Country and Big Bend – I mused on how hiking can be thought of as a metaphor for how to live your best life.

It’s about the journey, not the destination

Hiking is a journey. There may be a destination at the end of the trail – such as a beautiful overlook, lake, or resting place – but the joy derived from hiking is found not just in where you will arrive in the end. Being fully present throughout the entire trek allows you to experience peace and beauty every step of the way.

There are just as many ups as there are downs

There usually just as many uphills as there are downhills, with a few flat stretches in between. Up, down, flat – one is not better than the other, and each has both benefits and challenges. Going uphill can be physically tiring, but reaching higher ground is often what motivates you to keep going. It’s also nice to stop every once in a while, look back, and see how far you’ve come.

Downhills are not necessarily easy though – they can often be steep and scary, and depending on your age, painful for the knees! Taking your time and using whatever resources are available (walking sticks for me!) will make this part of the hike safer and less painful. 

And enjoy the soft and shady straightaways…this is a good time to take a break and rest – you’ve earned it!

You’re not alone, you’re not the first, and you won’t be the last

Most likely you are hiking a path that others created before you came along. Take time to appreciate and express gratitude to those who cleared the way. Leave the path as good or better for those who will follow. And even if your goal is to enjoy the peace of nature while alone, being kind and friendly to each fellow hiker you pass or who passes you just makes the day better for everyone. Smile and say hello!

I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.

Henry David Thoreau

Be prepared

Staying in shape is a good thing to do regardless of whether or not you plan to hike, but for the sake of hiking, it greatly increases your level of enjoyment and accomplishment. It may even save your life. The keys to safe hiking are pretty simple: know your limits, carry plenty of food and water, stay on the trail, and wear proper gear. By taking care of yourself you are also taking care of others – meaning those who would otherwise have to come rescue you!

Mindfulness, appreciation, gratitude, and preparation are all ways that, whether hiking or living, can help make the best of each experience and every day.

Happy Trails to you!