Author
Home > Travel > What is the Difference Between Hiking and Walking?

Guilherme Mazui

•4 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Hiking and Walking?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between hiking and walking lies in the terrain, distance, and purpose of the activity. Here are the key differences:

  1. Terrain: Hiking typically involves walking on natural terrain, such as grass, dirt, and rocks, often in mountainous or rural areas, and usually on trails. In contrast, walking can take place on a variety of surfaces, including indoors on a treadmill or gym track, or outdoors on sidewalks, roads, or other synthetic terrains.
  2. Distance: Hiking generally involves covering longer distances, especially through rural areas or along trails, while walking is often shorter and can be done in urban or suburban settings.
  3. Elevation changes: Hiking usually involves encountering elevation changes, such as ascending or descending hills or mountains, while walking may not necessarily involve such changes.
  4. Purpose: Hiking is a form of recreation, often done for enjoyment, exercise, or military training, and may involve specific goals or destinations. Walking, on the other hand, can be done for various purposes, such as locomotion, weight loss, or mental health benefits.
  5. Gear: Hiking typically requires more specialized gear, such as hiking boots, backpacks, and other equipment, due to the ruggedness of the terrain. Walking generally requires less specialized gear, and regular walking shoes or sneakers are often sufficient.

Both hiking and walking are low-impact cardiovascular exercises that can help manage blood pressure and improve heart health. The choice between hiking and walking depends on your fitness goals, personal preferences, and the environment in which you choose to exercise.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Hiking and Walking?
  • Comparative Table: Hiking vs Walking

    • Comparative Table: Hiking vs Walking

    The main difference between hiking and walking lies in the terrain, environment, and purpose of the activity. Here is a table comparing the two:

    Feature Walking Hiking
    Definition Walking is a casual, leisurely activity typically performed in urban environments or on paved trails. Hiking is a more strenuous activity that involves walking on uneven terrain, often in natural environments like mountains and reserved parks.
    Terrain Walks are usually conducted on flat, even surfaces. Hikes often involve walking on uneven, hilly, or mountainous paths.
    Distance Walks are typically short and last for a few minutes to a couple of miles. Hikes can span days and cover much greater distances.
    Purpose Walking is often done for leisure, exercise, or transportation. Hiking is usually done for recreation, exploration, or adventure.
    Gear Regular footwear is sufficient for walking. Specialized gear like hiking shoes or boots, and sometimes a backpack with supplies, is needed for hiking.
    Fitness Level Walking can be done by people of all fitness levels. Hiking requires a higher level of fitness and endurance, especially for steeper trails.
    Pace Walking is usually done at a consistent, relaxed pace. Hiking pace varies depending on the elevation and terrain.

    Both walking and hiking offer numerous health benefits, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases and aiding in weight management. However, hiking typically burns more calories due to factors like trail terrain, grade, and the weight of a daypack.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.