When I think of hiking, the image that comes to mind is that of a young, strong, healthy individual, striding over mountainous rough ground for huge distances. I admire Erling Kagge, who wrote the book "Walking". He has walked to both the North and South Poles, and has climbed Everest. But he also did what he calls "Urban Hiking": exploring a city by walking through it.
Many town and city-dwelling people do a little walking every day, going to and from work, or to the local shop... or walking the dog. They wouldn't consider this to be "Urban Hiking", and they're probably right. It's different.
I think what makes the difference is intention and attitude. The mindset of the person who is walking.
Are you lost in your thoughts about work, or family? A row with a friend? Worry about money?
Or are you aware of your physical feelings, a stiff neck or sore foot... or the pleasure of stretching your legs, breathing deeply, and becoming more energised?
Are you walking the same route so often that you no longer even notice your surroundings, unless there's some major change - like road works, or a new building going up?
Or does every landmark carry a memory, so that as you pass it you can't help but think of something that once happened?
To me, walking is simply getting from one place to another, but hiking is an adventure. You don't have to be young or super strong, or even to go very far from home. What you need is the willingness to observe the world around you, with a fresh mind. Like most people, I far prefer to walk in natural surroundings, rather than in cities or towns... but there are some lovely walks, even in urban areas.
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