Coffee vs. tea. Pink vs. red. Disney vs. Pixar. The chicken or the egg. (Just making sure you’re paying attention.) Today, we’re breaking down hiking vs. trekking: the similarities, differences, health benefits, and how to prepare for each activity.

I want you to be ready and pumped (!) for hiking season, which just so happens to be right around the corner. So let’s go back to the basics real quick so you can start your next journey off on the right foot.

Hiking and trekking are two terms people often use interchangeably. After today, you’ll not only be able to clearly distinguish the two. You’ll also be well on your way to conquering the next forest, canyon, or mountain that stands between you and dessert. Let’s go!

in This Guide

Hiking vs. Trekking: The Basic Definitions

Here’s how Oxford Languages defines the two terms:

  • Hiking: The activity of going for long walks, especially in the country or woods
  • Trekking: Going on a long, arduous journey, typically on foot
  • Arduous (*bonus word*): Involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring

In a nutshell, hiking and trekking both take place with feet firmly planted on solid ground. However, that ground can take us to vastly different locations. Think of hiking as a shorter, more manageable, cheerful, inclusive, and less intense experience. A trek can be a much longer and more difficult ordeal. In other words, not everyone can swing it.

  • Hiking: A short, single-day, or multi-day journey on manageable terrain
  • Trekking: A multi-day or even multi-month experience in wilder, more remote, and more grueling environments

You get the idea. Now let’s go a bit deeper to get a more complete picture of how these two words differ. This is where it gets fun.

What is trekking?

“I would never have started this trip if I had known how tough it was, but I couldn’t and wouldn’t quit.”

Grandma Gatewood

Trekking is a type of hiking involving longer distances, more challenging terrain, and multiple days of wilderness exploration. Think of Lewis and Clark, Sacagawea, Leif Erikson, Alison Hargreaves, Benedict Allen, and that one crazy friend you know who’s planning on disappearing for six months to attempt a thru-hike.

I.C.Y.D.K.

Alison Hargreaves was a British mountain climber who scaled Mount Everest solo - without bottled oxygen or fixed ropes - and all the great north faces of the Alps in one season. “To Tom and Kate, my dear children, I am on the highest point of the world, and I love you dearly.”

Benedict Allen is an English explorer, writer, and filmmaker who immerses himself among indigenous people groups, learning survival skills in wild and remote locations around the world. “It’s about letting Nature make its mark on you.”

What is the purpose of trekking?

Trekking is about immersing yourself in nature, pushing your limits, and exploring some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. It’s a chance to really see what you’re made of – and a way to build strength, endurance, and resilience along the way. You can also experience new cultures by getting up close and personal to the local communities and gain a new perspective on the natural world.

A trek often involves carrying a backpack with all the gear and supplies you’ll need to live on for the duration of your trip, like food, water, and camping stuff. You must be physically fit, mentally tough, and ready to adapt to changing weather and trail conditions.

Fun Fact
Grandma Gatewood (real name Emma Rowena Gatewood) was the first female to hike the entire Appalachian Trail alone in one season. Now this fact alone is an incredible feat. But she was also the first human to walk it twice - and thrice! Tack on the fact that this woman was 67 years old the first time, and you have the stuff of legends. “I said I’ll do it, and I’ve done it.”

What is considered trekking?

Trekking can take place in a variety of environments, including:

  • Mountains
  • Forests
  • Deserts
  • Remote regions

It may involve camping overnight in tents or other types of shelter. Trekking may also involve crossing streams, climbing steep slopes, and traversing rugged terrain.

A famous example of trekking is the two-week hike to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, which takes trekkers up to elevations well over 17,000 feet high.

All in all, trekking can be an incredible experience that offers a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature on a deeper level. You’ll challenge yourself, explore new places, and make unforgettable memories.

What are the different types of trekking?

There are various types of trekking, and each comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. Here are some of the most common:

  • Wilderness trekking: Explore remote and rugged wilderness areas with little to no access to modern amenities. You’ll need to be self-sufficient, know survival skills, and be willing to adapt to changing weather conditions and terrain.
  • Mountain trekking: Traverse high-altitude areas, often with challenging terrain and steep slopes. Mountain trekking requires a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and acclimatization to high altitudes.
  • Jungle trekking: Hike through dense rainforests and encounter a variety of flora and fauna along the way. The hot and humid climate can prove challenging, as can navigating through lush vegetation.
  • Glacier trekking: Cross icy terrain, over frozen streams and lakes. You’ll need specialized gear and training, including crampons and ice axes.
  • Cultural trekking: Visit remote villages, and explore the cultural traditions and lifestyles of local communities.

What is hiking?

“Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it.”

Andy Rooney

Hiking involves walking on trails and paths in natural environments like forests, mountains, and parks. You can make your hike as short or as long as you like – from less than an hour long to multiple days, weeks, or even months. Hiking can range from easy, well-maintained trails to more challenging routes with steep inclines, rocky terrain, or other obstacles.

While hiking does not always require specialized skills or training, it’s essential to be prepared and take safety precautions, especially if venturing into remote or unfamiliar areas. Hiking is an excellent way to exercise, appreciate nature, and spend time with friends and family.

What is the purpose of hiking?

Hiking is done for recreation, exercise, and to enjoy all the benefits of nature. It often requires minimal equipment beyond comfortable hiking shoes with good traction, weather-appropriate clothing, and a backpack with basic supplies like water and snacks. Hiking trails can range from easy and well-maintained to more challenging routes with steep inclines or rocky terrain.

Hiking can challenge you mentally and physically and give you a strong sense of accomplishment after completing a trail or reaching a summit. It will also allow you to completely disconnect from technology (hello, no service!) and connect with friends and family on a deeper level. Being active outdoors also naturally reduces stress and boosts your mood and mental health.

“Hiking is not escapism; it’s realism. The people who choose to spend time outdoors are not running away from anything; we are returning to where we belong.”

Jennifer Pharr Davis

What are the different types of hiking?

We’ve already covered this question in depth in a previous article called “15 Types of Hiking for Every Type of Hiker.” But here’s a quick rundown of the different types:

  • Day hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Overnight hiking
  • Out and back hiking
  • Section hiking
  • Thru-hiking
  • Long distance hiking
  • Bushwhacking
  • Trail running
  • Naked hiking
  • NoBo and SoBo hiking
  • Backcountry hiking
  • Peak-bagging
  • Summit hiking

The Difference Between Hiking and Trekking

Let’s put hiking and trekking side by side for a full rundown.

Category

Hiking

Trekking
Purpose

Often done for recreation, exercise, or to enjoy nature.

Often undertaken as a more adventurous and challenging activity involving multi-day trips and more remote locations.

 
Terrain and Distance

Walking across maintained and marked trails, often for shorter distances and with less challenging terrain.

Traveling on more remote, rugged, or sometimes untouched, terrain, often for longer distances and with more significant elevation changes.
Equipment

Basic gear needed, including comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a backpack with only essentials (like water, snacks, and an extra layer).

Often requires more specialized equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and other gear needed for overnight camping. Trekkers must be self-sufficient for the duration of the trek and able to navigate and stay safe.
Difficulty Level

Hiking is more accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Trekking requires a higher level of fitness and endurance, as well as survival and navigational skills.
Duration

Usually a few hours, a full day, or an overnight excursion.

Anywhere from two days to multiple months.
Route

Hikers often follow a loop and return to a trailhead or basecamp before nightfall.

Trekkers travel to new locations daily, waking up to new surroundings each morning. Accommodations vary along the route, ranging from a simple bivouac to a lodge or mountain tent.

The Health Benefits of Hiking and Trekking

Hiking and trekking offer many physical and mental health benefits. Here are a few.

Cardiovascular Health

Both activities can really get the heart pumping, which can help improve heart health, increase circulation, and lower blood pressure. The constant movement of walking on uneven terrain and elevation changes also helps to build endurance and stamina – and lots of muscle!

Strengthen Muscles and Bones

Hiking and trekking involve weight-bearing exercise. Not only are you carrying your own bod around the earth. But you’ll also have added weight from your backpack to strengthen your bones and build even more muscle. Hiking and trekking require the use of core muscles for balance and stability, too. BAM – full-body workout.

Boost Mental Health

Spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and boost our mood and overall mental health. Getting out on the trails also forces us to disconnect from our technology and daily worries, immersing us in nature’s beauty, quiet, and calm.

Improved Respiratory Health

Hiking and trekking at higher elevations can strengthen the lungs and improve respiratory health. The thin air at higher altitudes can also increase oxygen uptake (the ability to take in oxygen and deliver it to different parts of our bodies), improving overall physical performance.

Weight Management

These activities burn loads of calories while simultaneously building muscle, which can boost metabolism and help to maintain a healthy weight.

How to Prepare for Hiking vs. Trekking

Preparing for hiking and trekking involves choosing the right equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for preparing your gear and packing your bag!

What to Bring

Footwear

Suitable footwear is essential for both activities. Choose hiking shoes or boots that fit well and provide ample support and traction. For hiking, lightweight hiking shoes or boots with good grip and waterproofing are recommended. For trekking, sturdier boots with more ankle support and rugged tread are needed to withstand more challenging terrain.

Clothing

Dress in layers and bring appropriate clothing for the weather conditions you may experience on your route. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal, especially for hiking in warm weather. For trekking, clothing should be more durable and suitable for colder and wetter weather conditions. A waterproof jacket and pants are essential if you plan to trek in areas with high precipitation.

Backpack

Choose a comfortable and sturdy backpack that’s the appropriate size for the length of your trip. For hiking, a lightweight daypack with enough room for essential items such as water, snacks, and extra clothing may be all you need. A bigger backpack with enough space for camping gear and supplies is required for trekking.

Navigation

Bring a map, compass, or GPS device to ensure you don’t get lost, especially on a trek where you encounter new terrain. Make sure you know how to use your navigation tools before your trip.

Camping Gear

For trekking, camping gear such as a tent, sleeping bag, stove, and cookware are necessary for overnight stays. Choose equipment that’s lightweight and easy to pack.

Other Essentials

Bring plenty of water and snacks for both hiking and trekking. A first aid kit and emergency supplies like a satellite phone or personal locator beacon are highly recommended for trekking.

Safety Tips

Preparing for hiking and trekking involves more than just having the right equipment. You also need to stay safe out there and make it back home alive. Here are some quick tips:

  • Plan your route: Research your route beforehand, and let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. Stick to established trails and avoid off-trail wandering unless you’re an expert bushwhacker with survival and navigation skills.
  • Check the weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out, and always be prepared for changing conditions. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for rain, wind, and cold weather.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water and drink regularly to stay hydrated. For trekking (and sometimes hiking), you should carry a water filtration or purification system.
  • Bring enough snacks: Bring plenty of healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout your journey.
  • Use sun protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Watch your step: Be aware of your surroundings and watch your footing. Avoid loose rocks and slippery terrain. Don’t take unnecessary chances and risk getting injured.
  • Leave no trace: Respect the environment and leave no trace. Carry out all trash and dispose of it properly.
  • Bring a first aid kit: Bring a basic kit with essential supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers for both hikes and treks.
  • Be prepared for emergencies: Bring a whistle, signal mirror, and a fully charged mobile phone or a backup power source.
  • Know your limits: Be honest with yourself about your physical abilities. Choose a hiking or trekking route that’s appropriate for your fitness level.

To Sum Up: Trekking vs. Hiking

“Not all those who wander are lost.” J.R.R. Tolkien

Whether you’re ready to get outside and take on a short, leisurely hike with your best friends or a week-long backpacking trip through the backcountry with the lions, tigers, and bears, I’m rooting for ya.

Stay safe. Have fun. And take lots of pics – especially when your cohorts have highly unfortunate but forever-etched-in-your-memory moments out there.

I’d love to follow your adventures in the weeks and months ahead. If you have Instagram, you can follow me – then I can follow you right back!

To the trails!

Micah

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