27 Best Hiking Quotes From Inspiring & Outdoorsy Storytellers
/If it truly wasn’t for hiking, I would not have discovered the trails, soaring trees, chirping birds and rolling dunes in multiple parts of the world!
Hiking has a powerful way of giving us perspective and reminding us of how insignificant our issues are; some people hike to get out or some purely for the scenery and solitude.
While exercising our body, we are also recharging our mind, and this is when hiking quotes serve as a great reminder on why we stepped out in the first place.
Nature is authentic and it is why so many people and explorers have turned storytellers when they have stepped out into an environment bereft of technology.
To give you that much-needed inspiration, I turned to travellers and storytellers to come up with the best hiking quotes and captions that resonates with their adventure.
These quotes have a powerful way to inspire at least one person to start hiking a mountain!
Best Mountain Hiking Quotes From Inspiring Storytellers
1. “ To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles” - Marie Davis
“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles” - Marie Davis
We love the beauty and miracles found in nature. Mother nature can teach us so much about resiliency and inspires us in the most magical ways.
Just like humans, nature must endure threats, such as natural disasters and disease. Yet, regardless of any struggle nature goes though, miracles still happen, and they happen all around us.
Miracles can be seen in the changing colour of leaves in the Fall, in the tree that continues to grow out of an old tree stump, a waterfall that was formed after thousands of years of erosion, or the 'great vibrations' in nature.
It is only through going out into nature that we are able to experience these miracles and the beauty that can come from hardship.
Even trees that are bent in weird ways are beautiful and can thrive. If you truly love and respect nature, you will be able to find beauty, and miracles, all around you. Even the smallest part of nature’s miracles, like the sounds of nature, do not go unnoticed.
A powerful miracle in nature we love is the view of mountain peaks. One of the last hikes that left us in awe was the Slesse Memorial Trail, nestled in the Cascade Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. We witnessed the seasons starting to change from summer to fall and the most incredible mountain views that seemed to go on forever.
I love the feeling of realizing how small I am in the world and the power of nature around me.
Hiking to views of great peaks is a continual reminder of what a huge miracle nature is; it takes millions of years to form a mountain.
By Debbie Fettback from WorldAdventurists.com
2. "Hiking is not escapism; it’s realism. The people who choose to spend time outdoors are not running away from anything; we are returning to where we belong" - Jennifer Pharr Davis
"Hiking is not escapism; it’s realism. The people who choose to spend time outdoors are not running away from anything; we are returning to where we belong" - Jennifer Pharr Davis
This quote is from Jennifer Davis, a long-distance thru-hiker from America, who has completed the Appalachian Trail three times and the Pacific Crest Trail (amongst others).
She was known for the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail – in 2011, she completed it in 46 days, though her record has now been broken.
The quote resonates with me because for me it sums up a lot of what is wrong with modern society, and the feeling we receive when hiking. We close ourselves away in houses in big cities, and yet community and our bond to the natural world is being eroded.
When people go on adventures, hiking or travelling or [insert anything outdoorsy here], often they are chastised for running away from their problems and troubles. And in fact, it’s when we are truly in the space we were given.
Each step that we hike is each contact that we make with the ground. It’s the most traditional and historic way of travelling and experiencing the world around us, unpowered by anything manmade except ourselves.
Almost every walk I take, especially when I get away from the congestion and into the quieter parts of the world, evoke this feeling of connectedness.
This is the real reality. As Jennifer puts it so succinctly, “we are returning to where we belong.”
By Dave Chant from davechant.com
3. "Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better." - Albert Einstein
"Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better." - Albert Einstein
With the ever-present digital fatigue overwhelming our lives, from constantly scrolling Instagram to being available at a ping of an email, I think it's so important to get out and get hiking.
This quote resonates with me so much because I feel like being bombarded with information is taking its toll and we need to get back to just being present.
That’s why I feel so strongly that there is much to learn from nature, not just about life but also about ourselves. and about learning to be present.
So many times, especially while hiking Lion's Head ProvincialPark, I’ve learned some valuable things that are at their core simplistic yet profound.
I remember my first hike there and letting my eagerness and excitement cloud my better judgment. I forgot valuable hiking essentials on that first hike and paid for it.
But, I’ve learned my lesson. I’ve also learned while hiking through Lion's Head that it’s imperative to not just push our limits but to also know our limits. Nature is a wise and true teacher if only we stop, breathe it in, and listen.
By Stephanie from The World As I See It
4. “If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal.” – Paulo Coelho
“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal.” – Paulo Coelho
This is one of my favourite hiking quotes. It’s not only funny, but it’s true. I chose this quote as my favourite hiking quote because adventure makes me feel alive and brings so much joy, whereas getting stuck in a routine can feel monotonous.
I can remember thinking of this quote while hiking on one of the most beautiful trails in the world.
I was hiking in the Cinq Terre, Italy, from the town of Monterosso to Vernazza, gazing out to the Mediterranean.
I felt happy, free, independent, and best of all, adventurous. I was in the middle of the trail, and the difficulty was rising (especially in the summer heat), when I thought of this famous quote by Paulo Coelho, “If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal.”
Paulo is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but I had a feeling, he had at one time, had an experience like this, even on this same trail! This is also one of the best quotes about travel.
By Whitney of Designs for Travel
5. “Sometimes it’s so bad it’s good”
“Sometimes it’s so bad it’s good”
Where would be the fun if everything went to plan? Mishaps and lessons learned are my forte.
Scafell Pike was the second mountain in our family quest to scale the UK’s highest peaks. We’d learned from tackling Snowdon at Easter that frozen hair was fun but not optimal, and had selected the relative heat of July for our Lake District ascent.
We also knew to weigh up length versus steepness in path choice, that wearing 3 layers of trouser was excessive, that the map needs to be in a plastic wallet and to wear waterproof socks.
The forecast was on our side and the smallest group member stepped easily over the stones at the first stream crossing.
As we ascended, the fog descended and the path disappeared. We scrambled over shifting scree before posing for our view-free summit photo.
Scurrying like ants in separate directions in search of the path down, we were stopped in our tracks by the sensible compass-holding group member instructing us to freeze before we all tumbled off invisible cliff faces.
Sheets of blindingly horizontal rain turned paths into slippy rivers. Skin was stolen from wet feet. Adults fell heavily on wet cobbles as children clung to each other for balance.
Ever-present was the threat of the rising waters below. We wondered if there would be any reception if we needed to call the emergency services.
Tense is not the word. Approaching the river, it was pretty swollen but parents balanced on just-visible boulders passing children over the torrents.
With the passing of time, we can now laugh. Memories have been made and more lessons learned. Yes, it was bad, but it in a family-mythology building way. And you need a travel fail to make a travel tale.
By Helen from Holidays From Hels
6. “Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb.” - Greg Child
“Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb.” - Greg Child
My dad was a mountain climber and, growing up, I never understood why he would go through so many hardships just to reach a summit.
He always told me that it was impossible to explain, that you have to live through it to grasp it.
But I had no intention to follow his footsteps. I always loved hiking, but being tired, hungry and half-frozen in the middle of a mountain didn’t really appeal to me.
Many years later I went back to a national park that houses the first mountain my dad ever climbed – an active volcano no less!
And, for the first time, the mountain called me. I always dreamt of how great it would have been to climb it, but I never thought I had it in me. That time was different. Villarrica volcano was saying my name. So up I went.
I was tired, hungry and half-frozen in the middle of the mountain, and I understood it all. “Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb”. I’m a storyteller and a travel writer, but I can’t put words to the feeling.
You have to live through it to grasp it, as my wise dad use to say. From that moment on I see mountains in a completely different light. And so will you after your first summit.
By Coni from Experiencing the Globe
7. “The best views come after the hardest climb”
“The best views come after the hardest climb”
I love this quote because I can relate to it on both a literal level and a metaphorical one.
After nearly a year of lockdowns and restrictions, this quote has never felt so appropriate. For many, the past year has been the hardest climb of all. A steep uphill battle against a virus that shook the world. An unprecedented challenge to our collective mental health and upheaval of normality.
After all the loss and hardship of the last year, you can guarantee that our perspectives will shift once the pandemic is over. Once normality is restored, we’ll have the best view ever.
One of the endless possibilities, of appreciation for the small things, and a newfound excitement to explore. Sometimes it takes a struggle for us to get the best out of life – and this quote sums that up beautifully.
On a more literal level, I can relate this quote to climbing Kilimanjaro. It was by the far hardest hike I have ever done.
Day after day of intense hiking while battling altitude sickness and extreme cold. It was a tough test of endurance and resilience. But when I reached the peak, it was all worth it.
I arrived on top of the ‘roof of Africa’ just in time for sunrise. It is, without doubt, the best view I have ever seen.
Witnessing the sunrise over the glaciers on top of Kilimanjaro to reveal the plains of Africa sprawled out below was an incredibly special moment. A moment that never would have been possible without the hard climb to get there.
By Jessie Moore from Pocket Wanderings
8. “A walk in nature walks the soul back home.” - Mary Davis
“A walk in nature walks the soul back home.” - Mary Davis
Like a lot of people, the tumultuous year of 2020 was challenging for me.
As a travel blogger and someone who thrives on new experiences, transitioning from a life of jetsetting across the United States and the world to being mostly homebound and baking lots of banana bread was not exactly a welcome shift.
One of the only things that kept me sane and feeling like myself during this timeframe was getting out in nature and hiking in beautiful places, being surrounded by new sights, smells, and feelings that I’d never encountered before.
Luckily for me, I moved to gorgeous Washington state a few months before the lockdowns began and as such, I’ve had so many beautiful landscapes to explore to give me that awe-struck feeling, from the craggy beaches of Olympic National Park to the lush rainforests in the Cascade Mountains.
Throughout the experience, I’ve not only gotten physically stronger, from struggling to hike three miles to being able to easily hike 15 miles a day, but also have learned new skills, like backcountry camping, and have found solace in the calmness of natural surroundings.
I’m so thankful to be able to escape in my own backyard of the Pacific Northwest, just placing one foot in front of the other, and, even through chaos and uncertainty, find a way back home to myself.
By Jessica Schmit from Uprooted Traveler
9. “Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.” - Gary Snyder
“Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.” - Gary Snyder
I first came upon this quote when researching Gary Snyder, and it immediately impacted me.
As a family that sold all of our belongings and our house to roam the United States in search of our wild, it felt like it was speaking to our own journey to come back to nature.
As a traveling family, our happiest times are when we are all together hiking in nature. The stress melts with every step, and the fresh air soothes our frayed nerves.
This quote reminds me that being out in the tree-lined forests feels so cathartic because it is indeed the “home” we all seek. Free of distractions, electronics, and the noises of city life, nature gets me out of my head and into my body.
By Christina from Live A Wilder Life
10. “Not all those who wander are lost.” J.R.R. Tolkien
“Not all those who wander are lost.” J.R.R. Tolkien
This has always been a special quote to me. Ever since I read The Lord of The Rings for the first time at the age of 10, I’ve had a special draw towards wandering across the mountains for days and months to end.
Every time I go on a multi-day trek, I think of this quote. It’s all about what you seek, the new adventure, the new places. The peace you find in the mountains that you can’t find anywhere else.
The 4 day trek to Macchu Picchu a few years back was truly special, but the last time I felt a true connection to this quote was just a few months ago when I was in Spain’s Sierra Nevada National Park on a Mulhacen hiking trip over a couple of days.
This is the highest mountain in the Iberian Peninsula (3479m) and the fulfilment of just wandering was immense.
I recall telling my friend the last day at sunset on our way back to our car that I wanted nothing but set up the tent again and keep wandering the day after. No matter how tired I was, it just felt great to be in the mountains. I never feel lost when I’m up there – I always feel at home.
By Linn from Andalucia Hiking
11. "Fresh air is the best for kids AND adults!"
"Fresh air is the best for kids AND adults!"
Growing up, my mom taught us the power of fresh air and a good walk each day. My family lived all around the world, but it didn’t matter to my mom if we were going on a hike to a German castle or a walk among the cornfields of Kansas, we got fresh air!
My mom also showed me the importance of taking time with my dad apart from the kids.
They hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail and even a multi-day hut hiking in the Swiss Alps. Sadly, a few years later she was diagnosed with a progressive disease that now has her in a wheelchair. She is still as joyful as when she was hiking around the world, but fresh air and a “walk” looks different now.
Seeing firsthand how important it is the “seize the day,” my husband and I have traveled with our kids as much as our frequent flier miles can take us! We’ve been to Switzerland twice with the kids to hike the same mountains my parents did years ago.
I am now raising my kids in her footsteps. Hoping to instill in them the power of being in nature and breathing in the fresh air each day. We love going on nature adventures in our backyard. I have set a reminder on my phone to “get outside before noon, fresh air is the best!”
By Jennifer from Family Trip Guides
12. “Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it.” - Andy Rooney
“Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it.” - Andy Rooney
I used to always find myself dying to get to the top when I was hiking so all the hard work would be over. But then, when I reached the top, I always felt disappointed that it was over, and I got mad with myself that I had wanted the climb to end.
It was only in retrospect that I appreciated how hard I worked; how much self doubt I overcame by simply making the hike; how grateful I felt being immersed in nature; or how lucky I was to see the awe-inspiring views.
Andy Rooney’s quote resonates with me because I just wanted to get to the top. Sometimes, I still do. Usually when I’m hiking with one of my teenage kids and they are taking whining to a whole new level.
However, more recently, I try to live more in the moment as I hike. I listen to my deep breaths and feel the ache in my legs.
I tell myself how strong I am and stop often to enjoy the sights. I try and forget about the small details of my life that seem so important and urgent at home but realize on my hike that they can all wait, and most of the time, should.
That family, being with the people you love, telling them how important they are to you, and being in nature is more important than buying a carton of yoghurt, replying to your emails, or writing that next blog.
By Nicole from Go Far Go Close
13. “We don't stop hiking because we grow old — we grow old because we stop hiking” - Finis Mitchell
“We don't stop hiking because we grow old — we grow old because we stop hiking” - Finis Mitchell
There are few things better that I can think of than being outside, surrounded by nature and going for a hike.
Whether you’re a hardcore hiker with the most expensive gear heading to the summit of K2, or a regular Joe taking a walk in your sneakers up a hill outside the town where you live, hiking can be enjoyed by almost anyone.
Last year, when my in-laws found out that we were planning on hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge (for the second time), they insisted that they wanted to join us.
We had our doubts whether that was such a good idea, considering they’re both in their 70s. But they would not have it any other way, and within a few days they had their tickets to China booked!
Fast forward a month or so, and it’s all smiles as we’re walking along the Tiger Leaping Gorge trail - one of China’s finest hikes.
The scenery truly is out of this world! Being one of the deepest canyons on earth, the Tiger Leaping Gorge is a spectacular hike. The in-laws have no trouble keeping up, and they insist on carrying their own backpacks.
Somewhere along the way I came to realise that hiking is good, but it’s even better when you do it with the people you love. Looking at the old folks enjoying the challenge of the hike, I thought: “I want to be like them when I grow old.”
By De Wet from Museum of Wander
14. “I found far more answers in the woods than I ever did in the city.” - Mary Davis
“I found far more answers in the woods than I ever did in the city.” - Mary Davis
Sometimes nature has all of the answers. Being outdoors away from it all can awaken our senses and provide clarity.
When the pandemic hit, we were inundated with life changes, stress, and continual chaos. I took to the trails to escape it all. Only then did I gain a sense of peace and calmness.
Prior to 2020, I had never really explored my own surroundings. I felt something shift inside me when I went out on a local trail for the first time. I saw my own area with a fresh set of eyes and fell in love with the tranquility I felt while I was out by myself.
Solo hiking has been one of the most grounding experiences. Once you’re out in the woods by yourself, surrounded by nothing but dense forest, creeks, and waterfalls, you can really hear yourself think and feel your heart beating. Life slows down.
This quote reminds me of one of my most memorable moments, just after a big snowfall while I was out deep in the woods with the snow continuing to gently fall. It was so still, and quiet. You couldn’t hear a thing. I felt my mind relax.
I gained a sense of independence and I’ve learned more this past year about where I live than I have in 30 years - all from hiking.
When we become so wrapped up in our own lives, our daily routine, and the influence of others’ opinions, we forget what nature can offer us. Peace. A clear mind. No distractions - and the ability to escape from it all with a walk through the woods.
By Sarah Camp from In Search of Sarah
15. “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” - Nelson Mandela
This quote is close to my heart, not just pertaining to travel, but for everyday life. Every time I remember this quote, it charges me up, pushes me to strive better in what I do, and drags me out my comfort zone.
And many times, during travelling, we have gone way beyond our comfort and tried new things! It made us feel better, and added so much of value to our experience. Most of all, it made us tell interesting stories - of success and misadventures we encountered!
One of the memorable moment is hiking Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh to catch the first rays of sun - with our 9 months old twin babies!
We have hiked Arthur’s seat many times before, but never to see the sunrise and certainly never with our twins. I am not a morning person per se, and I need a great deal of motivation to wake myself up.
And having to carry twins on the baby carrier and hike the mountain in the wee hours of dawn was the least I wanted to do.
A little push from my husband and remembering these quotes made me say “Challenge accepted”! We got up at 3.30am and prepared the bags - a flask of piping hot tea, nappy changing bags and milk bottles for the babies.
The predicted time of sunrise was 5.55am. The start of the journey began well, but as we got half way through, when the ascent was more steep, I struggled to hike carrying the baby and I had almost given up and sat on the rock!
Then again, we pushed ourself one step at a time, slowly yet steadily we reached the top just in time to see the first ray of sun. It was pure bliss and surreal to catch the sunrise, with our babies!
By Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple
16. “Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in an office or mowing the lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.” – Jack Kerouac
This hiking quote is particularly special to me because it’s exactly what went through my mind (and still does) when I planned and went after this life of full-time travel after college.
Once I became aware that life really could be lived on my own terms, and did not have to resemble that of my peers, was when I truly became free.
There has never been a time where I felt more in tune with this quote than when I found myself hiking in a remote valley in Pakistan.
It was when I was completely surrounded by mountains with barely any cell phone service, no tourist infrastructure, and with hitchhiking my only form of transportation that I knew deep down that I had chosen the path meant for me.
It was there in Yarkhun Valley, looking out at a view I couldn’t have even dreamed of, that I knew this was a moment I would truly remember forever, and a feeling I knew I wanted to continue to chase.
The mountains and hills that I have climbed before and after that moment continue to remind me why I travel, and why I believe nothing could ever bring me as much fulfilment or joy as the high mountain passes of Asia.
I barely remember most days of college or days of work in the field I originally studied, but I could tell you every detail of that week in Yarkhun, every flavour I tasted at all the restaurants in Lahore, or the emotions felt each evening that I spent amongst the stars in Spiti Valley.
Now those are times that will never leave my mind, in settings I hope to see and feel again and again and again.
By Samantha from Intentional Detours
17. "If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere." - Vincent Van Gogh
"If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere." - Vincent Van Gogh
You don't have to go to a National Park to find a beauty spot. It's all about perspective and recognition. Take time to appreciate the details and you may be surprised by what you will find.
This quote reminds me to appreciate the little things in life and seek out hidden gems.
When I am outside in nature, I need to slow down and look around. The colours, the shapes, the light, the sky - it's all thanks to Mother Nature.
While it's wonderful to travel to exotic places, there are plenty of beautiful places to see close to home too.
Lately, I've been spending more time exploring my local area in Norfolk, England and have been impressed. I didn't realize how much there was to see in my home county. It's full of so much natural beauty.
I'm not just talking about the areas popular with tourists like the Norfolk Broads or the North Norfolk Coast. Many would make for a good-looking painting.
There are lovely countryside hikes all over the county. One of my favourite spots to walk is Holkham Park.
The nature trail around the lake does an excellent job of pointing out details that you may otherwise miss. Mother Nature does amazing work, you just need to take the time to acknowledge it.
By Anisa from Norfolk Local Guide
18. “You’re off to great places, today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way.” – Dr Seuss
“You’re off to great places, today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way.” – Dr Seuss
This quote originates from the thoughtful words found in Oh the Places You’ll Go by Dr Seuss.
This meaningful quote reminds us to take action to achieve all our wildest dreams. Sometimes this means “climbing mountains” to reach the once-of-a-lifetime views on your adventurous hike to reach those “great places”.
I have travelled around the world my entire life. However, I have typically stuck to popular tourist destinations in the past. Only after getting off-the-beaten-path and enduring challenging hikes and treks have I truly felt rewarded.
This quote encapsulates my hike up to and on the massive Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska during my Alaskan cruise.
While a simple walk would not have been terrible, I was hiking with my mother, who needed me to help carry her backpack for her. After trekking with 50 pounds of gear in my winter coat and boots, I was about ready to quit as we reached the breathtaking glacier.
However, once reaching the end of this extremely difficult hike, I realized how every single moment of pain and obstacle was 100% worth it.
Dr. Seuss’s wise words illustrate how you may need to challenge yourself to your physical, mental, and emotional limits to truly accomplish great things and travel remarkable places.
By Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips
19. "It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." - Confucius
"It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." - Confucius
As a constantly curious traveller, I always knew that my success what connected to a specific place.
After traveling around Latin America with just my backpack and minimal gear, at some point, I realized that I must slow my travels down.
At first, it was about visiting as many places as I could in a short space of time. As I travelled more I realized I need to stop and take a step back to look at all I have achieved along the way.
Everything from learning a new language, discovering new food, connecting with locals, and learning about myself was so much to take in.
At one point along my journey, I was suffering from the typical culture shock symptoms and needed to take time to recover.
After some well-needed self-reflection, I realized that there is no rush to travel. As long as I keep on traveling no matter how slow I will be content. I'm not in a rush anymore.
Everything I had planned is still going to happen but just in my own time. This quote by Confucius helps me to confirm that life is not a race and but rather like a marathon, as long as I don’t stop perusing my dreams then how fast I go is totally irrelevant.
By Daniel from Layer Culture
20. “The foot that is restless will tread on a turd.”
“The foot that is restless will tread on a turd.”
One of my favorite hiking quotes is the Ethiopian proverb (no author known), 'The foot that is restless will tread on a turd.' I cannot imagine a better quote for restless hikers!
When hiking in the mountains, you'll mostly be following centuries-old paths, dusty paths, or muddy paths. In my opinion, these paths are the best hiking paths because they usually lead to the most beautiful, unspoiled spots.
I remember my last weekend getaway to Marseille to hike in the Parc National des Calanques Marseille-Cassis.
This natural area located between the communes of Marseille, Cassis, and La Ciotat is a wonder, the only national park in Europe that is simultaneously periurban, terrestrial, and marine, with beautiful secluded creeks perfect for a dip during the hike.
The night before the hike, it was raining a lot, and the paths were muddy, but this did not stop us from starting to walk; we were willing to hike through this beautiful park so much!
The sun in Southern France is strong, and after a while, the areas out of the forest were already dry, and the rest of the hike was definitely more enjoyable.
Back to our hotel, our boots were full of mud, but we also came back with many beautiful memories from the hike.
by Elisa from France Bucket List
21. "Walking is a (wo)man's best medicine" - Hippocrates
"Walking is a (wo)man's best medicine" - Hippocrates
Science has proven that exercise is important for not just our physical health but our mental health as well.
After this past year with everything that has been going on in the world, I am so thankful that I live in a place where I can easily get outside for some fresh air.
Hiking has been my stress reliever and a way for me to work through big life decisions.
Whenever I feel overwhelmed, upset or burnt out, spending some time walking outside or exploring a hiking trail rejuvenates me almost instantly. I swear it's like magic!
Hiking has given me self-confidence as I tackled new trails, some extremely gruelling like Ontario's famous Top of the Giant Trail, one of the unmissable things to do in Thunder Bay.
It was six hours of sweat and almost a few tears but nothing beats the feeling of reaching the top - especially when you're treated to views like this!
While it may seem a little weird to some, hiking has helped me become the person I am today. I honestly can't imagine where I'd be or what I would be doing if I hadn't started hitting the trails six years ago!
By Lindsay Davies from I've Been Bit! Travel Blog
22. “Carry as little as possible, but choose that little with care” -Earl Schaffer
“Carry as little as possible, but choose that little with care” -Earl Schaffer
Whether you’re a thru-hiker or just someone that’s done a weekend trip into the backcountry, you know how unpleasant it is to carry a heavy pack.
Every ounce is a soul-crushing weight and you start to anticipate how much lighter it’ll feel following each meal.
Many ultralight devotees cut the handle off their toothbrush and throw away maps or pages in their guidebook once they’re no longer necessary.
The pernicious obsession with lightness can backfire though, as there are some items too valuable to leave at home. There are the obvious necessities: food, shelter, and warmth, but on a gruelling thru-hike, momentos of home and loved ones, which will motivate you on those last miles, are just as critical.
I’ve yet to complete a thru-hike, despite pondering the possibility of one nearly every winter.
Maybe it’s the time commitment or it could be that I’m scared that I won’t finish. Instead, I make a few shorter trips, section hiking the Continental Divide Trail in my home state of Montana.
The pieces that run through Big Sky Country are some of the CDT’s most spectacular including Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
For now, these segments sustain me, and maybe these stepping stones will give me the confidence to take that big leap and conquer the 3,000+ mile trail through the heart of the Rockies.
Until then, I’ll keep fussing over the gear in my pack, and whether shaving off an ounce or two more will make those thousands of miles any more attainable.
By Ryan from Montana Discovered
23. “A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step” - Lao Tzu
“A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step” - Lao Tzu
When I decided to climb Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho Route, I had no idea what I was letting myself in for.
All I knew is that it was big, other people had done it, and I had seen quite a lot of photos of guys posing by the sign on their dating app profiles!
For some reason, it called to me. I thought about it a lot. I talked about doing it ‘one day’ a LOT! And eventually I realised that I needed to either put up or shut up. So I roped in a friend, and we booked.
Then it got real. Suddenly I had to actually climb this thing, and I was terrified. I had no idea if I was capable of it. Would I make it to the top? Would I get altitude sickness? Would I die?! I had no idea.
The only thing you can do is put faith in what the proverb says. Take it one step at a time, one task at a time.
So I began planning. I read blog posts and articles. I shopped for gear. I walked across London and up and down hills. And then, when I got there, I took the same approach.
I remember freaking out on the first day about how far we had to go, and the guide said to me, "Don’t think about tomorrow, or even this afternoon. Just think, can you get to the next camp, or the next rest stop, or even the next tree?”
Of course you can. On Kilimanjaro, the guides’ favourite catchphrase is ‘Pole pole’, which means ‘Slowly slowly’. Take it slow, just think about the next step, and eventually you’ll get there. And I did!
By Bella from Passport & Pixels
24. "For those who climb, the answer is both obvious and impossible to explain — the everyday concerns of livelihood, of social standing, overdue bills, and futureless romance all fall away before the vast and overwhelming absolute of the mountain." - Paul Watkins
I used to analyse every single detail when I started hiking to ensure I had everything perfectly aligned – everything had to be far from practical, but near perfection and provide the utmost comfort (which would mean I had to be superbly fit before undertaking mountains).
By the time I started trekking in the Himalayas to Central Asia, and reached the foot of the majestic mountain range, all that didn’t matter anymore. I just kept going and with time, I stopped fussing over fitness but more about how much I am learning by just being outside!
I realised the simplicity of life and hiking in nature and how so much of what we think of vs. what we need in life is vanished and often fallen away under the vast and overwhelming shadow of the mountains. Watkin’s quote is a reminder of celebrating the little things and to not sweat the small stuff.
This is pretty much how hiking in the wilderness is — as long as you stay true to yourself, seek simplicity and best of all do not conform to societal expectations, what you receive will be far greater than anything you had or anything you lost.
After a year lost, there’s more reason why hiking has become embedded in my core.
I seek random trails and woods around me and even noticed new plant species, animals, birds, all the little details when I have forgotten about. The quote is a reminder to follow your pursuits and not be pressured to explore things in fast mode!
by Pashmina from The Gone Goat
25. “You Can’t Climb Up A Mountain With Downhill Thoughts.”
“You Can’t Climb Up A Mountain With Downhill Thoughts.”
This is definitely one of my favourite quotes about hiking, and for 2 reasons.
First, I take the quote quite literally, and relate it to hiking. Climbing a mountain is no regular stroll, and it comes with its challenges. All along the climb, you’re faced with difficulties to overcome: it’s long, it’s tiring, it requires constant attention, you might get thirsty, hungry, …
With so many challenges, it’s easy to get discouraged. If you have downhill thoughts, (aka bad mental), you’ll give up at the first difficulty.
Not even 1 hour into the hike: “oh my feet are hurting, let’s go back home”. When you have such a mentality, you’re always looking for reasons to give up.
And this is the second reason why I like this quote: it also relates to life in general, and not just hiking.
Climbing a mountain can be an analogy for accomplishing a goal. This is the motto for my life, having a positive mentality is the first step to accomplishing anything.
It resonates with me on a deep level on this analogy, as having a good mindset can lead to success and help you concentrate on the right things, rather than allowing yourself to be distracted and discouraged with all the negative things happening.
By Kevin Mercier from Kevmrc.com.
26. "Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity." - John Muir
Known as the "Father of the National Parks," Scottish-American author John Muir was a pioneering environmental philosopher, botanist, zoologist, glaciologist, and more.
Born in 1838, he was one of the earliest advocates for the preservation of wilderness in the USA, co-founding the Sierra Club and helping to establish both Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks in California.
Muir wrote countless influential books and essays about his love of the wilderness, including My First Summer in the Sierra, A Thousand-Mile Walk to the Gulf, and Our National Parks. But what we love most about the quote above is that it is quite possibly even more relevant to our society today than it was before his death in 1914.
The "progress" brought about by the industrial revolution have doubtlessly brought amazing technological advances and modern conveniences that have improved both the length and quality of the average person's lives.
But even at the dawn of modernity, Muir recognized the negative impacts "civilization" was having– how the hustle and bustle of modern life could wear a person down, day by day.
Muir understood better than most the extraordinary healing power of nature, and scientific research has since proven what he knew to be true nearly 200 years ago. Mankind needs mountains, rivers, and forests just as much as we do food, water, and oxygen.
Mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually, time spent in the wilderness rejuvenates our mind, body and soul. And that replenishing has never been more essential than it is now, as we enter our second year confronting the worst global pandemic in more than a century.
Our recent road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina really reminded us just how vital exploring the great outdoors is to our well-being.
We wore masks and social distanced during the mid-week trip, soaking in some of the most beautiful sights in the Eastern US.
From the heights of Mount Mitchell and the breadth of the Linville Gorge to countless waterfalls and stunning Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks, the trip was just what we needed to fight off the anxiety and depression long-term isolation was having on us.
To borrow a phrase from Muir, exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains felt like going home. So perhaps it's no surprise we're hoping to relocate to the area permanently in the next few years.
By Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide
27. “We must get beyond textbooks, go out into bypaths and untrodden depths of the wilderness of truth and explore and tell the world of our glorious journey” - John Hope
One of my favourite family travel quotes, this particularly reminds me of the importance of hiking and the great outdoors.
It also speaks to one of my favourite benefits of family travel: that travel provides real-world educational experiences.
As a mother, it is crucial to balance textbook and classroom learning with life lessons and family and worldly values.
While subject learning is an integral part of my children's education, travel, adventure, and spending time hiking and exploring the great outdoors is equally as important.
By spending time in nature, my children are building self-confidence and self-awareness, as well as exposure to the elements. It also gives us time to “unplug” as a family.
Plus, time playing and hiking outside is proven to be beneficial for their mental health, physical health, and to combat common childhood medical problems such as obesity and ADHD.
I hope that the more they travel and are exposed to different landscapes, people, and cultures, as well, the more accepting and worldly they will become.
While they can of course learn about culture and nature through books, nothing trumps the real-life experience of hitting the trails with your boots as a family.
By Tori from Tori-Leigh.com
For inspirational quotes, read my other posts:
Is there a particular quote on hiking that resonates with you? If yes, do share with me in the comments below. I love to hear your hiking experiences and the quote that really made all the difference!
Like this story? PIN IT!
