Glossary / Glossary Categories / Hiking

Hiking

195 terms

Browse definitions, examples, and related concepts for 195 hiking terms commonly used in camping and backpacking.

Key Terms at a Glance

Term Definition
access trail A trail that provides access to a specific destination or connects to other...
adaptive hiking Hiking that is adapted to accommodate people with disabilities, often through...
animal trail A path created by the repeated movement of animals through an area.
Appalachian Trail (AT) A long-distance footpath. It ranges from Maine to Georgia and is the world’s...
assisted hiking A hiking experience that is supported or facilitated by professionals or...
AT hiker A person who hikes on the Appalachian Trail, a long-distance hiking trail in...
backpacking trail A trail that is suitable for backpacking, often longer and more challenging...
blue-blazed hiker A hiker who takes shortcuts or alternate paths (often marked by blue blazes)...

access trail

noun

A trail that provides access to a specific destination or connects to other trails.

adaptive hiking

noun

Hiking that is adapted to accommodate people with disabilities, often through the use of specialized equipment or...

animal trail

noun

A path created by the repeated movement of animals through an area.

Appalachian Trail (AT)

noun

A long-distance footpath. It ranges from Maine to Georgia and is the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, extending...

assisted hiking

noun

A hiking experience that is supported or facilitated by professionals or equipment, such as guided hikes or hikes...

AT hiker

noun

A person who hikes on the Appalachian Trail, a long-distance hiking trail in the Eastern United States.

backpacking trail

noun

A trail that is suitable for backpacking, often longer and more challenging than a regular hiking trail.

blue-blazed hiker

noun

A hiker who takes shortcuts or alternate paths (often marked by blue blazes) to shorten their hike or bypass...

break trail

verb

To create a path through deep snow or overgrown terrain by walking or skiing, often done by the first person in a group.

bushwalking

noun

The Australian term for hiking or walking in natural areas, typically in the bush or wilderness.

bushwhacking

verb

Hiking off-trail through the bush, where a cleared path doesn’t exist. Bushwacking might require hikers to force...

circuit hike

noun

A hike that forms a loop or circular path, returning to the starting point without retracing steps.

connector trail

noun

A trail that links two or more other trails or trail systems, allowing hikers to create loops or access different...

Continental Divide Trail (CDT)

noun

A long-distance hiking and equestrian trail that runs from the US-Mexico border to the US-Canada border, following...

continuous hiking

noun

Completing a long-distance trail or route in one continuous effort, without leaving the trail.

cross-country hiking

noun

Hiking that involves traveling over varied terrain, often off established trails or through undeveloped areas.

day hike

noun

A hiking trip that can be completed in a single day, typically without the need for camping equipment.

day hiking

noun

Hiking or walking in natural environments, typically for a single day, without the need for overnight camping gear.

downhill hiking

noun

The activity of hiking down a slope or mountain.

end-to-end hike

noun

A hike that covers the entire length of a trail or route from one end to the other.

established trail

noun

A well-defined and maintained pathway for hiking, often marked and frequently used.

extended section hike

noun

A long-distance hike covering a significant portion of a trail, but not the entire route.

fast hiking

noun

The practice of hiking at a faster pace than usual, often as a form of exercise or challenge.

fell walking

noun

A recreational activity involving walking and hiking on hills, moorlands, or mountainous terrain, often in the...

fifth-wheel trailer

noun

A towable RV that couples with a special hitch mounted over the rear axle of a pickup truck’s bed.

follow a trail

verb

To walk or hike along a designated path or route, often marked by signs or other indicators.

game trail

noun

A path created by the repeated movement of wildlife through an area, which may be used by hikers as a navigational...

groomed trail

noun

A trail that has been prepared and maintained for recreational activities such as skiing or snowboarding.

guided hiking

noun

Hiking with the assistance of a guide, who provides direction, support, and often interpretation of the natural...

hike

noun

A long walk, often in nature on paths—usually for pleasure, exercise, or sightseeing.

hike a trail

verb

To traverse a trail by walking, typically for pleasure or exercise.

hike difficulty

noun

A measure of how challenging a hike is, often based on factors like length, elevation gain, and terrain.

hike-in campsite

noun

A campsite that can only be accessed by hiking, typically located in more remote areas.

hiker

noun

A person who engages in hiking as a recreational activity.

hiker bedtime

noun

The time when hikers typically go to sleep, often shortly after sunset to maximize rest and recovery for the next...

hiker box

noun

A container or designated area at a trailhead, hostel, or resupply point where hikers can leave or take unneeded...

hiker exchange

noun

A pre-arranged meeting point where hikers swap supplies, equipment, or information to support one another during a...

hiker midnight

noun

An informal term for the early bedtime often observed by long-distance hikers, typically around 9 pm or when it gets...

hiker tan

noun

The appearance of a suntan caused by dirt residue characterized by distinct lines or patterns, caused by wearing the...

hiker trash

noun

A lighthearted, self-deprecating term used by some long-distance hikers to describe themselves, often due to their...

hike starting point

noun

The location where a hike begins.

hike your own hike (HYOH)

noun

A phrase encouraging hikers to follow their own path and make their own decisions, rather than comparing themselves...

hiking

noun

Walking more vigorously or over multiple days, with or without a pack and gear. Hiking often involves wide-ranging...

hiking accident

noun

An unexpected event or mishap that occurs while hiking.

hiking achievement

noun

An accomplishment or milestone reached while hiking, such as completing a long trail or reaching a difficult summit.

hiking boots

noun

Footwear designed specifically for hiking, providing support, traction, and protection for the feet and ankles.

hiking culture

noun

The shared values, practices, and social norms of the hiking community.

hiking difficulty

noun

A classification or rating system used to indicate the level of challenge or effort required for a specific hike,...

hiking discomfort

noun

Physical discomfort or pain experienced during hiking, often due to factors such as improper gear, terrain, or lack...

hiking essentials

noun

The basic items that are essential for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

hiking food

noun

Food items that are easily portable, non-perishable, and provide energy and nutrition for hikers during their outdoor...

hiking gear

noun

Equipment and supplies used for hiking, such as clothing, backpacks, and footwear.

hiking group

noun

A group of people who come together to hike and explore trails.

hiking guide

noun

A book or person that provides information on hiking trails, routes, and other relevant information.

hiking injuries

noun

Injuries that occur while hiking, such as sprains, blisters, and cuts.

hiking level

noun

A measure of the difficulty or intensity of a hike, typically based on factors such as elevation gain, terrain, and...

hiking life

noun

The lifestyle that embraces regular hiking and outdoor activities as a significant part of one's routine.

hiking pace

noun

The speed at which one hikes, often measured in miles or kilometers per hour.

hiking partners

noun

People who hike together, providing company and support for each other on the trail.

hiking philosophy

noun

The principles or beliefs that guide one's approach to hiking and outdoor activities.

hiking poles

noun

Poles used by hikers to provide stability, reduce impact on joints, and assist with balance on uneven terrain.

hiking route

noun

A specific path or course taken during hiking.

hiking safety

noun

Practices and measures taken to ensure safety while hiking, such as carrying essential gear and being aware of...

hiking shoes

noun

Footwear specifically designed for hiking, offering support, traction, and protection for the feet while walking on...

hiking trail

noun

A designated route for hiking. These trails can range from short accessible hikes to extended ones that might take...

hiking weather

noun

The meteorological conditions considered ideal or acceptable for hiking.

hill hiking

verb

Hiking on hilly or undulating terrain, involving a combination of ascents and descents.

hill walking

noun

A form of hiking that involves walking in hilly or mountainous terrain, often in a leisurely or recreational manner.

hillwalking

noun

The activity of walking and hiking in hilly or mountainous areas.

hitchhike

verb

To travel by getting free rides in passing vehicles.

John Muir Trail (JMT)

noun

An acronym for the John Muir Trail, a long-distance hiking trail in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California,...

linear hike

noun

A hike that follows a trail from one point to another without returning to the starting point.

link trail

noun

A trail that connects two or more other trails or destinations.

long ass section hike (LASH)

noun

A term used by hikers to describe a lengthy section hike, often covering a significant portion of a long-distance...

long-distance hike

noun

A hike that covers a considerable distance, typically more than a day's walk.

long-distance hiking

noun

Hiking over an extended distance, often for multiple days or weeks, usually on a continuous trail or network of trails.

long-distance trail

noun

A hiking trail that spans a significant distance, often hundreds or thousands of miles, and may take weeks, months,...

long section hike

noun

A hike that covers a long distance but does not cover the entire trail.

loop hike

noun

A hike that begins and ends at the same point, following a circular or looping trail.

loop trail

noun

A trail that forms a closed loop, allowing hikers to start and finish at the same location.

maintained trail

noun

A trail that is regularly inspected and kept in good condition by a managing organization or volunteers.

main trail

noun

The primary, most commonly used trail in a hiking area, often well-maintained and well-marked.

marked trail

noun

A hiking or walking trail that is clearly identified by signs or markings to guide hikers.

moorland walking

noun

Walking on open, uncultivated land with poor soil and few trees, often covered in heather or grass.

multi-day hike

noun

A hike that spans over multiple days, often requiring camping or other overnight arrangements.

NoBo hikers

noun

Hikers who travel northbound on a trail, often used in reference to long-distance trails such as the Appalachian Trail.

northbound hiker

noun

A hiker traveling in a northward direction, often used in the context of long-distance trails.

official trail

noun

A recognized, maintained, and marked path for hiking or other outdoor activities, often managed by an organization or...

off-trail hiking

noun

Hiking away from established trails, often involving route-finding, bushwhacking, and navigating more challenging...

off-trail navigation

noun

The skill and practice of finding one's way in the wilderness without a marked trail.

one-way hike

noun

A hike that starts at one point and ends at another, without returning to the starting point.

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)

noun

A long-distance hiking and equestrian trail that runs from the U.S.-Mexico border to the U.S.-Canada border, passing...

partial thru-hike

noun

A hike that covers a significant portion, but not the entirety, of a long-distance trail.

partial thru-hiker

noun

A hiker who completes a significant portion, but not the entirety, of a long-distance trail or route.

piecemeal hiking

noun

Completing a long-distance trail or route in multiple separate efforts or segments.

point-to-point hike

noun

A hike that starts at one location and ends at another, requiring transportation back to the starting point or...

rambling

noun

Casually walking in the countryside—typically without urgency, gear, or a set destination. People ramble to get...

return hike

noun

A hike that retraces the same route back to the starting point, as opposed to a loop or point-to-point hike.

ridge trail

noun

A hiking trail that follows a ridge on a mountain or hill(s).

round-trip hike

noun

A hike that begins and ends at the same point, typically following the same route in both directions.

scrambling

verb

The act of climbing or moving over steep terrain using hands and feet, typically without the use of ropes or...

secondary trail

noun

A less prominent or less used trail, often branching off from a main trail.

section hike

noun

A hike that covers a portion of a longer trail or route, usually completed over several days or weeks.

section hiker

noun

A person who hikes specific sections of a long trail or route, often with the goal of eventually completing the...

section hiking

noun

The practice of hiking a long-distance trail in segments or sections over time, rather than in one continuous journey.

segmented hiking

noun

A style of hiking where a long trail or route is divided into smaller, manageable sections, often completed over a...

segment hiker

noun

A hiker who completes a long-distance trail or route in multiple separate segments or pieces.

self-sufficient hiking

noun

Hiking in a way that relies on one's own resources and abilities, without support or assistance.

self-supported hiking

noun

A type of hiking where individuals carry all their own gear, food, and supplies, without relying on external support...

shortcut hiker

noun

A hiker who takes shortcuts or off-trail routes to shorten the distance of a hike.

short hike

noun

A brief and usually easier walk in natural surroundings.

shuttle hike

noun

A hike where transportation is arranged to return hikers to their starting point or pick them up at their ending point.

side trail

noun

A smaller or less-traveled path that branches off from a main trail.

SoBo hikers

noun

Hikers who travel southbound on a trail, often used in reference to long-distance trails such as the Appalachian Trail.

social trail

noun

An unofficial or informal path created by repeated use from hikers, often not maintained or sanctioned by land managers.

southbound hikers

noun

Hikers or backpackers who travel in a southerly direction along a trail.

speed hiking

noun

A fast-paced style of hiking, combining elements of trail running and traditional hiking to cover long distances...

spur trail

noun

A trail that branches off from a main trail, often leading to a specific destination, such as a viewpoint, campsite,...

supported hiking

noun

A style of hiking in which hikers receive external assistance, such as transportation, gear, or food, usually from a...

tent trailer

noun

A trailer that can be converted into a tent for camping, providing a more comfortable and secure shelter.

thru-hike

noun

A long-distance hike completed end-to-end in a single trip, typically covering hundreds or thousands of miles.

thru-hiker

noun

A hiker who partakes in thru-hiking.

thru-hike trail

noun

A trail specifically designed or designated for long-distance, end-to-end hiking, often covering significant...

thru-hiking

noun

Hiking an established trail over a long distance from one end to the other over an extended period. Some famous...

thru-trail

noun

A trail that extends for a considerable distance, traversing various landscapes and providing an opportunity for...

trail

noun

A path or route, typically marked and maintained, used for hiking, walking, or other outdoor activities.

trail angel

noun

A person who provides assistance, support, or unexpected acts of kindness to hikers, often without seeking anything...

trail angel box

noun

A container left by a trail angel containing supplies or treats for hikers to use during their journey.

trail blaze

noun

A mark, such as a painted spot or sign, placed along a trail to guide hikers.

trailblazing

noun

The act of creating or marking a new trail, or pioneering a new approach to hiking or trail-related activities.

trail break

noun

A temporary halt during a hike, often to rest, eat, or enjoy the scenery.

trail building

noun

The process of creating and establishing new hiking trails.

trail bum

noun

A person who spends a significant amount of time hiking and enjoying the outdoors, often prioritizing the trail...

trail care

noun

The maintenance and preservation of hiking trails to ensure they are safe and enjoyable for users.

trail classification

noun

The system used to categorize hiking trails based on their difficulty level and physical requirements.

trail clearing

noun

The act of removing obstacles or debris, such as fallen trees or overgrown vegetation, from a trail to improve...

trail construction

noun

The process of creating or building a new trail or improving existing paths for hikers, often involving landscaping...

trail cooking

noun

The act of preparing and cooking meals while on a hiking or backpacking trip.

trail crew

noun

A group of people responsible for maintaining and repairing hiking trails.

trail crossroads

noun

The point at which two or more trails intersect or cross each other.

trail culture

noun

The shared values, behaviors, and traditions of a community of hikers.

trail cutting

noun

The process of creating a new trail or path through a natural area.

trail development

noun

The process of designing, building, and maintaining hiking trails to meet specific standards and needs.

trail difficulty

noun

A measure of how challenging a hiking trail is, often based on factors like steepness, terrain, and length.

trail enthusiast

noun

A person with a strong passion and interest in hiking and exploring trails.

trail entrance

noun

The point at which a trail begins or starts.

trailer

noun

A vehicle that is towed behind a car or truck, used for transporting goods or as a mobile living space.

trail ethics

noun

The moral principles that guide behavior on hiking trails, including respect for nature and other hikers.

trail etiquette

noun

The customary code of polite behavior on hiking trails.

trail family

noun

A group of hikers who form a close bond and hike together for an extended period, often providing support and...

trail friends

noun

People who you meet and bond with while hiking on trails.

trail guide

noun

A book, map, or person that provides information on hiking trails and routes.

trail hazard

noun

An obstacle or dangerous condition on a trail that poses a risk to hikers.

trailhead

noun

The entry point to a trail, where a trail or multiple trails begins.

trail hiking

noun

The act of walking or trekking along established paths or trails in natural environments, such as forests or mountains.

trail infrastructure

noun

The structures and facilities that support hiking, such as bridges, signs, and shelters.

trail intersection

noun

A point where two or more trails or paths cross each other.

trail junction

noun

The point where two or more trails intersect, often marked with signs or other indicators to aid navigation.

trail life

noun

The lifestyle and experiences associated with spending extended periods hiking and living outdoors, often in...

trail magic

noun

Unexpected acts of kindness or assistance experienced by hikers, often provided by trail angels or fellow hikers.

trail maintenance

noun

The regular upkeep and repair of trails to ensure they remain safe, accessible, and enjoyable for hikers.

trail map

noun

A type of map that’s used by hikers to aid in navigation. The primary information on a trail map will typically show...

trail marker

noun

A sign, blaze, or other indicator used to mark the route of a trail and guide hikers.

trail marking

noun

Signs, symbols, or other visual indicators placed along a trail to help hikers navigate and stay on the correct path.

trail marking tape

noun

Brightly colored tape used to temporarily mark trails or specific points of interest, often for trail maintenance or...

trail mix

noun

A combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and other ingredients, eaten as a high-energy snack during outdoor...

trail name

noun

A nickname or pseudonym adopted by a hiker, often used within the long-distance hiking community.

trail network

noun

A system of interconnected trails, often within a park or natural area.

trail philosophy

noun

A hiker’s personal beliefs, values, and approach to hiking, often encompassing ethics, environmental stewardship, and...

trail restoration

noun

The process of repairing and restoring hiking trails to improve their condition and sustainability.

trail runners

noun

Lightweight, breathable shoes designed for running on trails, also popular among hikers for their comfort and grip.

trail running

verb

The activity of running on trails, often in natural settings, as opposed to roads or tracks.

trail shortcuts

noun

Alternative, shorter routes that bypass sections of a trail, sometimes causing erosion or other negative...

trail sign

noun

A sign placed along a hiking trail to provide information or direction to hikers.

trail support

noun

Assistance or services provided to hikers on a trail, such as water stations or first aid.

trail tan

noun

Uneven tan lines or sunburn that result from extended sun exposure while hiking, often visible on a hiker’s arms,...

trail type

noun

A classification of hiking paths based on their difficulty, length, and terrain.

trail weight

noun

The total weight of a tent, backpack, or other piece of gear, including all components, as it would be carried on the...

trail work

noun

The maintenance and upkeep of hiking trails, including trail cutting, waymarking, and other activities.

tramping

verb

The act of walking or hiking in a leisurely manner, particularly in the wilderness or backcountry.

travel trailer

noun

A motor-less RV that is towed behind a vehicle. A travel trailer typically contains full living quarters, including a...

trek

noun

A long (multi-day) and arduous journey—often taken by foot. Some treks require involved planning and the assistance...

trekker’s tan

noun

A tan acquired by spending extended periods outdoors, particularly during hiking or trekking activities.

trekking

noun

Walking for extended periods (many days) over a wide variety of terrain. The prolonged nature of this travel...

trekking poles

noun

Lightweight poles designed to provide stability, support, and reduce impact on joints during hiking or trekking.

ultralight hiker

noun

A hiker who practices ultralight backpacking, using the lightest and simplest gear possible to enhance enjoyment and...

ultralight hiking

noun

The practice of hiking with extremely lightweight gear and equipment to minimize weight and increase efficiency.

unsupported hiking

noun

Hiking without any external support or resupply, carrying all necessary gear and food.

uphill hiking

noun

The activity of hiking or walking up a slope or incline.

user-created trail

noun

A trail that has been created over time by hikers and visitors, rather than being officially established and...

walk a trail

verb

To traverse a trail by walking.

walking path

noun

A path or trail designed for walking or hiking.

walking poles

noun

Long, lightweight poles used by hikers to provide balance, stability, and support while walking on uneven terrain.

walking stick

noun

A stick or pole used to assist hikers in maintaining balance and stability on uneven terrain.

winter hiking

noun

The activity of hiking during the winter season, often requiring specialized gear and clothing.
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