The Emotional Side of Hiking (And Why It's So Good For You)

One thing that doesn’t get talked about enough with hiking is just how good it is for you mentally. It’s incredibly stress-relieving to get out into nature and just relax — even when the hike itself is taxing on your body. A good hike can put you in a place of comfort and relaxation that’s hard to find anywhere else. Part of that is just being unplugged — no notifications, no screens, nothing pulling your attention six different directions. Just you, the trail, and whatever’s actually in front of you.

There’s also the sense of accomplishment. Reaching the top of a mountain, or just getting to wherever you were actually headed, gives you a real hit of dopamine — a genuine feeling of having earned something, not just checked a box.

And then there’s the views. Nature is awe-inspiring in a way that’s hard to put into words — it’s its own kind of art, one that can’t be recreated by man. It’s original, it’s unique, and it’s outdoors. Nothing manufactured comes close.

Wildlife is incredible too. I’ve had some absolutely awesome moments interacting with wildlife on hikes and trails — mountain goats, pikas, prairie dogs, moose. Every single one of them brings its own sense of identity and character that adds to the whole adventure that hiking is.

That said, it should also be taken seriously. It can be dangerous — wildlife is wild for a reason, and you can get hurt from a fall, heat exhaustion, cold, and plenty else (see our guides on watching wildlife safely and handling a hiking emergency). But the risk is so worth the reward.

If you’ve never really felt it, get out there and find out for yourself. It’s worth every step.

— Adam