🥾 ShepherdTrail Series: Amazing Hiking Facts – Volume 1
Hiking isn’t just a trail activity — it’s a journey through time, nature, culture, and the soul. Every switchback hides a story. Every summit holds a secret.
Welcome to “Amazing Hiking Facts – Volume 1”, the first chapter of our new series where we dig into fascinating insights from the world of hiking — the unexpected, the inspiring, and the plain unbelievable!
🏔️ 1. The Oldest Long-Distance Trail in the World
Did you know?
While many think the Appalachian Trail (USA, 1937) is among the oldest long-distance hiking routes, the Camino de Santiago in Spain is over 1,200 years old, originally walked as a Christian pilgrimage in the 9th century.
Trail Takeaway:
Some hikes lead to breathtaking views. Others take you straight through history.
⛺ 2. Hiking Lowers Anxiety by 20% – Naturally!
According to a study from Stanford University, a 90-minute walk in nature can significantly lower activity in the part of the brain linked to depression and rumination.
Trail Takeaway:
Sometimes the best therapy is a trailhead and a backpack.
🥾 3. The Longest Hiking Trail on Earth?
The Trans Canada Trail stretches over 24,000 km, crossing six time zones. It’s not just the world’s longest hiking route — it’s a connection of communities, climates, and coastlines.
Trail Takeaway:
One trail. A whole continent. Now that’s walking the walk.
🌌 4. Your Body Burns Up to 500 Calories per Hour Hiking
That’s about 2,000 calories in a full-day trek, depending on terrain and weight. So next time someone asks why you hike — just tell them: “I’m cooking… slowly.”
Trail Takeaway:
Fitness, fun, and feasting at the campfire. What’s not to love?
🐾 5. Hiking Was Once a Crime
Back in the 1800s in parts of the UK, “trespassing” on trails was punishable by jail time. The fight for access gave birth to groups like The Ramblers, who pioneered the public right to roam.
Trail Takeaway:
Every step you take on a trail today is thanks to someone who fought for that path yesterday.
🌲 Final Thoughts
We’re just getting started! Stay tuned as we uncover more amazing facts in future editions. Share this with your trek buddies and leave a comment if one of these surprised you. 🌍✨
Because at ShepherdTrail, every trail tells a story.
