Hiking is a favorite activity of millions since it gives one a chance to get out into nature and take in all it has to offer.
Ironically, the act of hiking often has a negative impact on the same environment.
It is no secret populations of people are on the move.
One need only look at the urban sprawl around most cities.
With the influx of people comes the necessary aggravations of pollution, traffic jams and an all around crowded feeling.
Whereas many communities were built with little thought to outdoor activities in the past, modern communities at least try to carve out a bit of space.
While canyons and other open spaces are classified as having hiking trails, we all know they offer little more than paths between communities.
To really escape the rat race, you have to head out of town.
An entire industry has grown up around the idea of heading out of town to do some hiking.
While hiking may seem like a popular, simple activity, there can be downsides.
Simply put, I am talking about the ecological impact of hiking.
The environment where we all hike is fragile and more people need to realize it.
That beautiful trail will only remain so if you leave no evidence you were on it.
More and more people hike on trails and leave trash and other evidence of their being there.
This both ruins the hike for others and impacts the vary ecology that makes the hike worth taking.
"Leave no trace" is the hiker's lexicon and should be yours as well.
The basic idea is that you everything you introduce to the environment during your hike you remove.
Yes, everything.
Some people forgo the strict version of this philosophy and you may as well.
The key, however, is to make sure you at least hike out all the trash you bring in such as food wrappers, cups, cans and so on.
Hiking is one of the top outdoor activities you can do.
It is cheap and affords you an opportunity to see some amazing things.
Just don't ruin it for others!