The Benefits of Hiking (Top 10)

Why walk? The simple step-taking activity that we do on a daily basis can prove to be highly beneficial for your mental and physical health! Yes, I'm sure this is common knowledge to us, however many people take for granted how effective walking can be for your health. I compiled a top 10 list of the benefits of hiking based on Doctor Oz, Doctor Roizen and HikeOntario.com

John Muir - the founder of the Sierra Club says, "Walking yields a greater closeness to the earth, an independence. The solid thud of boots on the path means freedom to stop and admire a flower, to move at one's own speed, to rejoice in crossing a stream on risky stepping-stones to explore the off the trail, to get a close-up of the du jeweling the grass."

Top 10 Benefits of Walking 
1. Improve fitness
2. Refresh the mind
3. Reduce fatigue
4. Increase energy and happiness
5. Natural movement that is virtually injury free (good for any age and physical capability)
6. Provides an enjoyable time for socializing with friends and family
7. It's cheap (if not free!)
8. Reduces blood pressure and improves digestion
9. A closeness and appreciation to nature
10. It's fun!

A healthy lifestyle is a happy lifestyle, check out these blogs to further your quality of life!
http://befithealthyhappy.blogspot.ca/ - Fitness Blog
http://alanatoner.blogspot.ca/ - Yoga Blog

Urban Hiking

For most people the concept of hiking consists of remote areas, dirt paths and forests.  However, modern forms of hiking are also available for those who live in suburban or metropolitan areas. Most city centres have areas designated for walkers, runners, hikers and bikers.

One of the more common urban walking trails in Southern Ontario is the Waterfront Trail. This runs 620 km along Lake Ontario and will now be extending to Lake Erie. Some popular areas of the trail are in Oshawa, Toronto, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, St. Catharines and Niagara-on-the-lake. The trail is generally paved and easy to walk with many scenic parks and views along to enjoy throughout.


An urban hike does more than offer physical benefits, it gives us the chance to explore the terrain we live in and interact the space we call  home. Get out and explore your neighbourhood!


See your city website for walking areas and options. For example: http://www.toronto.ca/parks/trails/discover.htm

Decew Falls (Thorold)

I have recently come to appreciate how nature can transform among seasons in Southern Ontario. And although many people would never consider hiking in -15 degree weather, many of the trails are worth exploring in the winter.

Decew falls is a 22m waterfall with an old mill and heritage site at the top. It consists of small trails around it, which are an easy level of hiking. For those adventure seekers, I highly recommend to take the steep trek down the gorge. Here you can explore an "off the beaten path" experience with a more challenging walk to an even more beautiful destination. This shouldn't take you more than 30 minutes to walk but you will find yourself spending more time taking pictures and enjoying the scenery!

Summer: At the bottom of the falls you may swim in the small poolof water.

 

 Behind the falls

Winter: Enjoy the beauty of the falls being frozen over like one big icicle. Walk behind the falls which will appear like an ice cave.

WARNING: Be careful! The gorge is extremely steep and often slippery. Great caution must be taken to avoid any injuries. Make sure you find the safest pathway down and whenever going off the path always go with someone. - sorry for the typical disclaimer.. but it's true!