Technology Paving the Way for Hikers
The weather right now is perfect – crisp morning air, mid sixties to seventies throughout the day, fall foliage all around. Besides it getting dark at practically 5 p.m. – which we pretty much all can agree we can do away with now (in fact, 32 states have engaged in legislation to establish Daylight Saving Time (DST) as the official time year-round) – this time of year is simply the best. Especially for those outdoor enthusiasts. So it’s no wonder that November 17 is National Hiking Day, or lovingly known as “Take A Hike Day.”
Hiking has seemingly increased in popularity over the years, with many benefits including it being a great form of exercise and a perfect excuse to unplug for a bit and get away from your phone. Interestingly enough though, it’s that same device, and the technology that backs it, that is allowing for hiking to ramp up.
Technology has fundamentally changed the way we hike, much as it has made drastic impacts to other areas of our lives. From helpful information for preparation, to the clothing worn during, to the navigation tools being used throughout, to the empowerment people feel overall (and especially when going solo), it’s clear tech has paved the way for both novice and proficient hikers alike.
However, some would say that technology in this particular field, where the sole (or at least highly-prominent) purpose is arguably to escape the everyday modern-day norms and embrace nature and a world without tech distractions, is counterintuitive.
As one article questions: “Is tech dumbing down what was once an undertaking best left to the skilled, or is it also democratizing these adventures, making them possible for people who might otherwise not have access? Is it blurring the lines between wilderness and civilization and detracting from the experience – or adding to it? It’s a philosophical question, as well as a practical one.”
Regardless of your stance, one thing’s for certain: With countless online articles like the top hiking gadgets for 2020 and helpful apps such as AllTrails, today’s generation of hikers have more access to tips and tricks of the trade than ever before – all due to technological advancements.
Do you think the world of technology “belongs” in an industry that is focused on the outdoors? How has tech helped or hindered you when hiking? Let us know in the comments below.