The warm sunshine on your face, the sound of the wind rushing through the trees overhead, and the soft earthy feel of the trail under your shoes. 

Hiking is proven to have many health benefits from physical exercise you get when out on the trail, to emotional or mental relief that comes from being in nature.

Physical Exercise

Hiking is one of the best ways to get exercise. No matter what type of trail you find yourself on, hiking is a great whole-body workout—from head to toe and everything in between.

Check out all of these physical benefits of hiking:

• Building stronger muscles and bones

• Improving your sense of balance

• Improving your heart health 

• Decreasing the risk of certain respiratory problems 

Mental Health

Being in nature can boost your mood and improve mental health. Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety, and can lead to a lower risk of depression, according to a study done by researchers at Stanford University. In addition to having mental health benefits, being outdoors opens up your senses to your surroundings and improves your sensory perception. Taking in the sights, smells, and feelings of nature has so many health benefits it can even be prescribed by a doctor.