National Hiking Day 2023: November 17 is National Hiking Day, also referred to as “Take A Hike Day,” and it is arguably one of the most significant holidays of the year. Why? A network of over 60,000 miles of trails first traverses the country. Hiking is also an excellent form of exercise, enabling you to expend more than 550 calories in a single hour. Additionally, being outdoors permits you to disconnect from your phone and appreciate the wonder and majesty of nature.
The History of National Hiking Day
Not historically has hiking been as popular a recreation as it is now. Before the likes of Patagonia, Subaru, and Jeep established an industry around the activity, walking was regarded as a pastime reserved for the homeless or indigent. The Victorian era, prior to the Romantic era, motivated individuals such as Walden and Thoreau to reestablish a connection with nature. This, in turn, inspired landscape architects, including Frederick Law Olmsted, renowned for his work on Central Park, to design parks featuring exceptional walking pathways. Walking subsequently became associated with the affluent, leisurely, and refined.
Prior to John Muir, who traversed the Sierra Nevadas in California on foot, not only did he advocate for the accessibility of hiking, walking, meandering, and sojourning for all American citizens, but he also emphasized the nation’s responsibility to actively conserve natural regions characterized by their pristine ecology and aesthetic appeal. 1890 saw the establishment of Yosemite and Sequoia National Park, which he deemed “America’s best idea” upon submitting a petition for the National Park System.
However, prior to Muir, a small group of individuals on the east coast had gathered in 1876 to form the Appalachian Mountain Club. Its mission was to develop new trekking trails along the historic mountain range and to protect and preserve existing ones.
Therefore, regardless of whether one is preparing to trek the entire Pacific Crest Trail or prefers to jog on the trails in Central Park, each stride follows in the footsteps of explorers, trailblazers, and activists from the past.
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FAQs on National Hiking Day
How can National Take a Hike Day be observed?
One may, so to speak, observe National Take a Hike Day by becoming disoriented. It goes without saying that you should thoroughly enjoy a stroll through the woods, but be sure to bring a compass and plenty of water!
Should I advise an individual to depart on National Take a Hike Day?
National Take a Hike Day is not primarily intended to encourage someone to go hike; rather, it’s about trekking itself.
Nation Hike Day occurs on which date?
National Hiking Day occurs on November 17 each year.
Observations for National Hiking Day
Commence a trek.
Nothing compares to being in the vast outdoors. Water, hiking footwear, a sack lunch, and a backpack are all that are required to hit the trail. You will question why you don’t do this more frequently once you begin.
Describe your personal experiences.
Feeling proud of your achievement? Share your hiking experiences on social media and take photographs of them. Motivational hashtags such as #TakeAHike and #NationalTrailsDay can motivate others to venture into the great outdoors.
“Volunteer Vacation” is the itinerary.
Engaging in mountaineering expeditions to unique and diverse locales while contributing to the construction and upkeep of trails across the globe. What might be improved? “Volunteer Vacation” by the American Hiking Society contains details on how to transform this aspiration into an actuality.
NATIONAL HIKING DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | November 17 | Friday |
2024 | November 17 | Sunday |
2025 | November 17 | Monday |
2026 | November 17 | Tuesday |
2027 | November 17 | Wednesday |