Serge Robichaud On The Transformative Power Of Hiking
Spending time outside has been widely recognized as a way to reduce stress and improve overall wellness. Research from various health and environmental studies has long linked physical fitness to improved mental health and even an increasing sense of environmental responsibility through exploring the trails.
“Hiking is more than just walking in the woods. It pushes you, makes you focus, and teaches you about reading the changing conditions,” says experienced hiker Serge Robichaud. The uncertainty of the outdoor environment, from sudden weather changes to challenging terrain or surprising wildlife encounters, reflects the unpredictability of life. Studies have shown that serious outdoor advocates tend to be calmer under stress and have better problem-solving skills.
Hiking is all about preparation, and a seasoned hiker knows the dangers of venturing into the woods unprepared. Looking up weather conditions, planning a route, and making sure to pack your essentials are standard pre-hiking preparations to ensure a safe and successful trek.
“The best of hikers know to prepare ahead of time. You’ve got to respect the environment you’re in and take responsibility for your safety,” Robichaud explains.
A report from the Canadian Red Cross shows that many emergencies on trails result from a lack of preparation, reinforcing the importance of thorough planning before heading out.
Hiking is also a cheap and easy way to get exercise. Unlike structured fitness programs or gym memberships, hiking can be done with minimal equipment, making it appealing for people at different stages of fitness. An increasing number of studies show several health benefits that come from spending time in natural environments, from lowering the stress hormone cortisol, to better mood and improved cognitive function. According to a study by the University of British Columbia, exposure to natural environments helps increase feelings of relaxation and mental clarity.
For many hikers, the destination is less important than the path. The act of placing one foot in front of another and the surrounding sights and sounds of nature encourage mindfulness and reflection. “There is a kind of mental clarity that comes with hiking. It’s a time you’re away from distractions, away from screens, and just focused on moving forward,” says Robichaud. Outdoor recreation studies have found that physical activity in nature can boost creative thinking and that being outdoors can create mental space to help individuals sort through thoughts without external distractions.
Hiking helps to build social and environmental connections. Most people hike with family and friends, or they join a hiking group. Others crave the solitude of the wilderness, taking solo hikes as a chance to unplug from daily stressors. Hiking can lead to increased appreciation for conservation efforts since exposure to natural environments tends to heighten awareness of environmental issues.
Responsible hiking helps maintain trails and ecosystems. “Every time you get out on a trail, you must do your part to keep it clean and safe. Respecting nature is keeping it the way you found it, or better,” says Robichaud. Leave No Trace Canada and similar organizations promote outdoor ethics, urging hikers to stick to established trails, pack out their trash, and leave the wildlife alone to help preserve the things that draw people outdoors in the first place.
Whether it’s treading a rocky trail or strolling in a park, hiking has a lot of physical and mental health benefits. It teaches resilience, encourages mindfulness, and gives people a powerful way to connect with nature.