It can be confusing to understand hiking terms, even for experienced hikers. Each style has value based on location, goal, and personal preference. I’ve listed the types in order from easy hikes to those which require skill and training.
Hiking basics:
- Routes can be loop, out-and-back, section, or point-to-point trails.
- Difficulty ratings are based on elevation changes and technical requirements.
- Defined trails have markers, or blazes, to show the way. Learn more about trail blazes.
Universally Accessible Paths
Universally accessible hikes are ones that anyone can traverse, including those with mobility issues or using wheeled transportation such as wheelchairs or strollers.
Routes are even with little to no obstacles or elevation gain. They are typically boardwalks, paved paths, or purposely leveled ground.
Universally accessible paths can be standalone or created to be an easier segment in a system of trails. They can also lead to overlooks for views of the area.
Urban Hiking
Urban hikes explore cities, towns, and villages rather than nature. Hikers discover iconic landmarks, cityscapes, and hidden gems. Urban hiking often exposes the cultural and historical importance of the area. My favorite part of urban hiking is finding murals and sculptures!
Day Hikes
These hikes are, as the name suggests, ones that can be completed within a single day. A day hike can range from under a mile to more than 20 miles depending on the person’s speed and stamina.
The only things you need are survival items and a good pair of hiking boots or trail runners.
Day hikes are what I do most often. It is amazing what can be seen on these shorter trails.
Bushwhacking
Bushwhacking is done through unmarked terrain – hiking with no trail. You make your way using a map, compass, description, or GPS. Without a defined trail, it is easy to get lost if you aren’t paying attention, so keep track of your return route as you go.
Hikers can explore the wilderness and find lesser-known scenic views. While on your trek, make sure not to destroy fragile ecosystems.
Prior to heading out, hikers should research the area as some trail systems prohibit off-trail activity or you may need a permit to do so.
Overnight Hikes
For those who need more time to explore an area, overnight hikes might be the way to go. Overnight hikes are similar to day hikes except the hiker sets up camp and sleeps on the trail. They get up the next day, hike some more, and then head home.
These hikes require more gear than those above. You will need a tent, sleeping gear, food, and extra water. Because it is only two days of hiking, you can carry much less than the longer hike types below.
Overnight hikes are a good first step to prepare for longer backpacking trips.
Base Camping
The next step up from overnights is base camping. A base camp is one spot you revolve around. Each day you hike out and then return to camp at night.
Once you initially reach your base camp, you can leave the heavy gear there during the day and use a lighter daypack for the hikes.
If the terrain is easy enough to navigate, you can use a vehicle as base camp. A car, camper, or RV make for a more comfortable and dry sleeping spot.
Backpacking
Extended overnight hikes (3 or more days) are called backpacking. Each day you head out and camp somewhere new. These multi-day hikes can cover much more ground.
Because you have to carry the items every day, light-weight tents, cooking items, and sleep systems are more important for backpackers.
Thru-Hikes
Thru-hikes are established long-distance trails that can be done within a year. Hikers start at the beginning of the trail and continue until they reach the end.
Popular hikes in the United States are the Appalachian Trail (AT), Continental Divide Trail (CDT), and Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).
These hikes are thousands of miles long. They require tons of physical, mental, and logistical preparation. Every few days, hikers will need to venture into town for supplies, so they don’t have to carry everything from the beginning. Some thru-hikers create resupply packages, strategically sent to themselves along the trail.
Section Hikes
Section hikes are portions of thru-hikes. You could hike a section of the Appalachian Trail, go home for a while, then head back to the trail and start where you left off.
Section hikes are great for those who cannot take off for months or don’t feel up to backpacking continuously for that length of time.
Summit or Mountain Hikes
Summit hikes involve hiking, climbing, and mountaineering. These hikes offer a challenge on the way up and stunning views from the mountaintop.
Peak bagging is hiking a collection of summits from a published list of peaks. You might hear enthusiasts talking about the 14ers they’ve done or the New Hampshire 48 or the Seven Summits. “Fourteeners” are mountains that exceed 14,000 feet of elevation.
Experience and preparation are needed for these hikes. They demand a lot from hikers, including dealing with altitude issues if the peak is high enough.
Hopefully now that you understand the common types of hikes better, you are ready to get out and tackle a trail! Which is your favorite? Comment below!