3 Great Reasons To Take A Hike

In a world increasingly dominated by screen-time, there’s never been a better reason to get intentional about outdoor activity. Stepping away from the chaos and immersing in nature gives a much-needed break from all that. But it’s hard to step away from the couch, for the best of us! 

This post shares why it’s worth it!

Looking for a supportive trip to help you get into hiking? You’re in the right place! Smiley Fitness Retreats is an incredible active travel company for slow pace women, with six different adventure styles. Take a browse around our site and don’t leave without joining our community email.

> READ: Embrace the Great Outdoors: Discover the Joy of Hiking

1. You’ll reconnect with nature

Have you ever felt numb to life… like your senses were dulling? Getting outside for a walk will wake them up! Natural surroundings combined with the cadence of putting one step in front of the other can be a solace you didn’t know you needed.

In time, you’ll start to feel the feelings that were missing and admire colors you’ve always walked past. The breeze will refresh and faster than you can say ‘hot girl walk’ you’ll find your rhythm. Escaping the noise of everyday life is always worth it.  

Research has shown that spending time in nature can significantly impact our mental health and well-being. A study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found that just five minutes of physical activity in natural environments can improve mood and self-esteem. Spending more time in green spaces has been linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety.

When you hike, you become part of the landscape, experiencing its sights, sounds, and smells intimately. The benefits of being in nature go beyond just physical activity; they contribute to emotional balance and mental clarity.

Organisations like The National Park Service emphasise the importance of nature in promoting physical and mental health . So, if you’re seeking a way to reconnect with the world around you, grab your hiking boots and head outside!

2. Boost Your Fitness: Hiking for Physical Health

Beyond the mental and emotional benefits, hiking is an excellent way to improve physical fitness. Sometimes it can be a full-body workout, engaging muscles and joints in ways that other activities may not.

Hiking strengthens the cardiovascular system, burns calories, and enhances endurance. According to the American Hiking Society, hiking can burn anywhere from 400 to 700 calories per hour, depending on factors such as speed, terrain, and body weight.

As you navigate varied terrains, your body adapts and develops balance, coordination, and agility. Hiking uphill builds strength in the legs, while downhill hiking can improve stability and joint health. Spending time outdoors exposes you to natural sunlight, which boosts vitamin D levels, improves mood, and supports bone health.

Incorporating hiking into your routine can lead to better overall physical health and vitality. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week . Hiking fits seamlessly into this guideline and can be an enjoyable way to reach your fitness goals.

Hiking can also be a fantastic social thing to do, especially if you’re looking to meet active people. Engaging in nature can foster connections as you’re joined by a common interest. Joining a local hiking club or participating in group hikes, such as our one day hiking tour might just be the motivation you need to explore!  

3. Get into a better headspace, mentally

Nature has a massive ability to heal the mind. Hiking immerses you in the present moment. The meditative rhythm of walking combined with the peacefulness of natural surroundings is hard to beat. This makes you feel better, which brings the focus on the present – reducing anxiety.

Hiking also fosters  self-confidence as you overcome obstacles and reach new destinations. Each trail conquered, whether it’s a scenic overlook or a challenging summit, reinforces your ability to face challenges and adapt to new situations. Resilience really is the power word of 2025!

According to a report from the Mental Health Foundation, physical activity in natural environments can significantly improve mental health and well-being. This is particularly crucial for those who may struggle with mental health issues .

Embrace the Journey

When you set out on a hiking adventure, you embark on a journey of self-discovery. As you navigate through various terrains, you may find that you not only connect with nature but also with yourself.

Joining a fitness retreat or hiking trip with us is the perfect first step. Smiley Fitness Retreats offers year-round hiking based trips that range in duration from one day to multiple months. If you’re at the very beginning levels of fitness, Cat Smiley Boot Camp would be a dream trip! This 27-day adventure includes daily coastal hikes as well as fitness training and weight loss.

In saying that, not everyone can get away for that long, so we’ve got shorter trips also. All of them have guided hikes tailored to our clients individual abilities. We’ll get you experiencing the beauty of the West Coast wilderness while learning essential skills to continue on your own, once home.