Do you need a vacation but you just cant afford it right now? Before getting too discouraged, keep in mind that there are many ways to getaway for some peace and quiet. No, you may not be a tourist in a beachside resort, but you can definitely getaway from the demands of day-to-day life without spending thousands of dollars.
Hiking provides the opportunity to getaway in beautiful nature, enjoy peace and quiet and challenge yourself physical and mentally. It does take some preparation beforehand, though, but preparation that will be worth it. Make an agreement with yourself that you will put a little work into preparing beforehand so you can enjoy the hike as much as possible.
With the proper equipment, guidance and techniques, hiking can be a positive experience with fresh air, exercise, beautiful scenery at your fingertips and refreshing solitude. Yes, your vision of insect bits, sore legs and dusty trails can be part of hiking, but these unpleasant aspects can be avoided.
Lets start by discussion what hiking is not about. You can hike up some hills or mountains, but keep mind that hiking is definitely not mountain climbing. Mountain climbing requires...