What are the Different Types of Hiking?

There are many different types of hiking, each with its own unique challenges, rewards, and requirements.

Hiking, itself, is defined as walking a long distance in the countryside.

But if you combine hiking with camping, summiting mountains, and swimming in alpine lakes, it can turn out to be the most epic adventure you can experience.

The type of hiking you choose will depend on your goals, interests, and level of experience and fitness.

It is important to choose a type of hiking that is appropriate for your abilities and to always be prepared and safe on the trail.

Before exploring the great outdoors, please review the Leave No Trace principles. To help protect the natural beauty of our wilderness areas, its our responsibility to ensure we have as little impact on the areas we visit as possible.

Remember to plan ahead and prepare, hike and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, respect wildlife, stay on designated trails, and be considerate of other visitors. 

Let's all do our part to protect the great outdoors and make Leave No Trace a priority on every hike.

Here are some of the most common types of hiking:

types of hiking

Day Hiking

This is the most common type of hiking, where you set out for a hike during the day and return to your starting point before nightfall. It is a great way to explore trails and enjoy nature without having to carry a heavy pack.

Overnighters

Overnighters are hikes that require a one-night camp. You carry all the gear you need for an overnight camp on the summit and proceed back the following day. This type of hiking is similar to backpacking, however, does not require the same preparation and is only for one night only.

types of hiking
types of hiking

Backpacking

Backpacking involves carrying all your necessary gear with you and hiking for several days or even weeks at a time, often camping along the way. This type of hiking requires a higher level of fitness and preparation than day hiking but can be incredibly rewarding.

Thru-Hiking

This is a type of backpacking that involves hiking an entire long-distance trail from start to finish, such as the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail. Thru-hiking can take several months to complete and requires a high level of endurance, planning, and preparation.

types of hiking
types of hiking

Trail Running

For those who enjoy a more intense workout, trail running involves hiking at a fast pace, often with the goal of completing a certain distance or time. This type of hiking requires a high level of fitness and coordination.

Peak Bagging

Peak bagging involves hiking to the summit of as many mountains as possible, often with the goal of completing a specific list or set of mountains. This type of hiking requires a high level of fitness and mountaineering skills.

types of hiking
types of hiking

Section Hiking

Section Hiking is basically hiking a section of any long-distance backpacking trail. This type of hiking offers much of the thru-hiking culture and scenery without requiring the same time and financial commitment.

Remember to follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles while hiking. Carry the Ten Essentials + Extras to stay safe and prep for your trek before you go.

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