Hiking is one of the few activities that can actually improve your mental, physical and spiritual health and well being. Not to mention that it can be a welcome departure from your daily routine.

Twice a week, you can find me at a local or state park putting a few trail miles under my feet. Chances are excellent that you have a few good hiking spots in your area. You don't have to plan a vacation to go hiking, but I do on occasion.

Sometimes we get so closely involved with problems at work or issues at home that we need to step back. Hiking can give you the space you need to see these issues with clarity. Maybe you're a walking victim of information overload. Just listening to nature can calm the mind. Hiking gives you time to think or avoid thinking.

The challenges you face in daily life might not seem so daunting once you've completed a section of challenging trail. Hiking can present you with all sorts of terrain and obstacles. As a result, you may feel there's nothing you can't do. Everything else is put into perspective.

Physically, the benefits are staggering. Hiking can decrease your resting blood pressure, increase your stamina, help you lose weight if you're on a diet and prevent heart disease. It's a great cardio workout and the view from the treadmill cannot compare with the view from the trail.

From the earth, to the earth. As we are a part of nature itself, learning about the earth's precious natural resources, we begin to take more responsibility for them and all who share them. That's how a global society makes progress.

I can't think of a more exciting family activity. I've seen hiking mend the rifts between father and son, husband and wife and the outdoor memories created among friends you'll cherish for the rest of your life.

One of the best things about day hiking is that you don't need much gear to get going. Before you head out on the trail, learn the basic Leave No Trace principles that will foster a safe and responsible outdoor experience. What are you waiting for? Go take a hike!