Nicholas Kristof of the New York Times has been writing some good stuff lately of the joys of hiking, including a "how-to guide." My recent trip to the Alps reminded me of the pleasures of this simple, honest pursuit. If done right, you are left humbled, exhausted and inspired.
Here is a teaser from his piece "How to Recharge Your Soul":
"In short: Go take a hike! Backpacking is the cheapest of vacations, and it links you intimately and directly to the world around you. It reminds us that we are just a part of the natural order, not lord of it, and that humble acknowledgment is the first step to improve our stewardship.
Backpacking means you take on your shoulders everything you need to hike and camp. The key is to carry very little, say 10 pounds not including food and water. I frequently see tortured backpackers stumbling along as they lug gargantuan packs that dangle frying pans; in their torment, they gaze enviously at my small pack and mistake me for a day-hiker."
Read the full column.
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