I can be a bit of a pedant sometimes and so when someone I know told me they were going for a hike, it opened a bit of a debate as to whether they really were going for a hike or just a ramble.
If you don’t know your rambles from your hikes, or treks from your walks, read on to find out what the difference is.
For those in a hurry, Walking is a short, leisurely journey on foot. Rambling is a short walk in the countryside following well-known routes. Hiking is usually a long journey through challenging terrain. Trekking is a multi-day walking trip covering multiple types of challenging terrain.
What is Walking?
Common use: To describe a short, leisurely journey on foot, which requires little to no specialist equipment.
You’ve probably used this term more than any of the others on the list, and with good reason. Whether talking about a child taking their first steps, heading out to the shops on foot, or discussing something a little more adventurous, walking is the perfect term to work as a “catch-all” for any type of physical activity at a leisurely pace.
The dictionary definition helps to back this idea up. Dictionary.com defined Walking as: “to move about or travel on foot for exercise or pleasure”.
As you can see, this description is fairly generic and can be used to describe short trips around your local neighbourhood, walks on the beach and longer journeys into forests and mountains.
Typically in the “walking” community, the term is used to describe a fairly relaxed trip, which requires little to no specialist equipment. This means no poles, rucksacks or waterbottles will be required on your walk.
“If you are in a bad mood, go for a walk. If you are still in a bad mood, go for another walk.”
Hippocrates
What is Rambling?
Common use: To describe a short walk in the countryside at a leisurely pace. Usually following a well-defined map and not requiring too much effort.
Whilst some people prefer to cover great distances, climb mountains and go on long journeys to “find themselves” in far-flung lands, others like to just get out into the countryside and enjoy the flora and fauna that their country likes to offer. Here in the UK, getting out into the countryside for a 2-3 hour walk at an easy pace is a great way to enjoy an afternoon and this is commonly referred to as Rambling.
Dictionary.com defines Rambling as: “Aimlessly wandering”.
I think this is the perfect way to describe rambling as most of the time you don’t go rambling for any particular purpose other than to catch up with friends, enjoy nature around you and find a nice pub/cafe to have a drink and some food.
Whilst you don’t need any specialist equipment for rambling, people will often choose to wear some hiking boots as you never know what the paths might be like until you get out there.
For me, rambling is an incredibly leisurely activity that almost anyone can enjoy. A great way to experience the great outdoors without having to push yourself too hard physically.
“You, who know that all the bruises and scrapes from scrambling and rambling are the best because they remind you of being alive.”
Madison Perrins
What is Hiking?
Common use: To describe a pleasurable walking trip through rural land. Typically faster paced than a walk of ramble and covering a great distance.
If you’re the sort of person who likes to climb big hills and cover large distances when you head out walking, the chances are you are going for a hike. Whilst you can still cover the distance you are travelling at your own pace, the chances are you will be moving more vigorously than if you were out for a walk and a natter with friends and you’ll feel a lot more like you have been exercising as well.
Whilst I don’t personally “march” when I am out hiking, I am usually moving at a fairly fast pace and getting short of breath at times when climbing hills or navigating rocky terrain.
You are likely to need to take some equipment with you when going for a hike:
- Hiking Shoes/Boots – You will be covering lots of rugged and variable terrain, so some well fitting walking boots are a must
- Map and Compass – Not a necessity, but very useful, particularly on a long hike
- Water – You can take a water bottle or some kind of water filter with you.
- Rucksack – For carrying food and water
- Walking/Trekking Poles (optional) – For those who have knee problems or need extra support when on long walks
Ultimately for me, the best way to tell the difference between a hike and a ramble is how much my muscles ache the next day!
“We don’t stop hiking because we grow old – We grow old because we stop hiking.”
Finis Mitchel
What is Trekking?
Common use: To describe a multi-day walking trip covering rough, difficult to navigate terrain, usually at a slower pace.
If you’re heading out on a journey to conquer some great peak, discover some far off beauty spot off the beaten track, or simply to make a very long journey over several days, this would usually be described as going on a trek or “trekking”.
You typically hear the term used to describe multi-day holidays that people take to far off lands, typically places that are not well served by cars or boats, where you need to walk in order to not spoil the true beauty of the place, you are visiting. Think travelling to the Himalayas or following the Inca Trail. Most people use these types of trips to discover something new about who they are and “find themselves” whilst doing something completely outside of their normal lives.
Trekking by its very nature requires a lot more equipment than other forms of walking:
- Hiking Shoes/Boots – You are likely to be covering great distances and lots of different terrain on a trek. These must be incredibly comfortable and could be the difference between a fantastic and disasterous experience.
- Map and Compass – Ususally you will be trekking with a guide, or at least someone that knows the area, but it is always important to be prepared.
- Water – You will probably need to take a water bottle and water filter with you are you will need to refill your water during your journey
- Rucksack – For carrying food, water and other equipment
- Walking/Trekking Poles (optional) – These are advised even for the fittest people as you will be carrying heavy loads, which will put a lot of pressure on your joints. It only takes one slight stumble with a heavy rucksack to put your back out.
- Tent and Sleeping Equipment – You’ll need somewhere to shelter from the weather (and bugs) when trekking. Also a good sleeping bag and mat will make all the difference.
Trekking is a fantastic way to discover the world and reach those far-flung places that are hard to get to by vehicle.
“Trekking means a traveling experience with a thrilling excitement.”
Amit Kalantri
Summary
So, now you know the difference between walking, rambling, hiking and trekking. In honesty, you’re unlikely to get challenged by most people if you use the wrong term (although the internet can be an unforgiving place sometimes). Different regions might also use the terms differently as well.
If in doubt, just say you’re off for a short/long walk and leave it at that.
Now take a hike (or do I mean walk?)!