Someone recently told me: It’s just walking. Here are some reasons why I started hiking.
New Beginnings/ New City
Since moving to Arizona in October 2021, I have gotten the hiking bug. It’s such a large part of Arizona/ Phoenix life and it is hard not to get enthused by the beautiful Arizona scenery. Phoenix, specifically, is a big hiking city. In the Phoenix area alone, there are over 239 hiking trails on the All-Trails phone app. According to the Arizona State Parks website, the Arizona State Parks Trails System features over 600 non-motorized trails statewide for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The state of Arizona ranks fourth behind Alaska, California, and Idaho for having the most wilderness lands.
Running vs Hiking
While I hope that I will continue my running routine as I get so much joy from running, hiking is a great alternative especially as I get older and can’t do as many high-impact activities. As a runner, I definitely thought that hiking would be an EASY transition. The transition has been smooth but definitely not easy. I consider myself a lazy runner who takes the easiest route with the least amount of resistance. Many Arizona hikes are the opposite with steep elevation that requires scrambling. (I try to avoid runs with significant elevation. I have been known to turn around/ change routes.) Similar to running new distances and faster times, hiking is an experience that can allow me to challenge myself and work on my own personal best.
Hiking: A Way to Meet New People
Hiking is also a great way to meet and connect with people. While I have been casually hiking for a while, I started hiking more frequently as a way to meet new people. While running has been a big part of my life for close to 10 years now, I have never been a social runner. Running is an outlet for me. It calms me down and keeps me engaged in the present. Sometimes it is better for me to run alone. While there have been a few people I have invited to or accepted their invitation to run with (one partner and two friends), I generally run alone. Hiking, on the other hand, is such an easy activity to do with others. It’s a way I can exercise, connect with people, and explore my natural environment
Exploration
One of the biggest benefits of hiking is the ability to explore your natural environment. Arizona is the perfect state to do that. There are so many peaks to conquer. Why not conquer them by taking a walk. Remember its just walking
Look out for more blog posts regarding my hiking tips for new hikers!
Check out one of my recent blog post
10 Hiking Essentials for Beginners
