National Hiking Day is the perfect excuse to get outside, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the beauty of nature. From seasoned hikers to beginners, November 17 is all about reconnecting with the outdoors and celebrating the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to fuel your hike with plant-powered snacks, explore the health perks of hiking for those 50 and up, and make the most of every step. Ready to experience the ultimate combo of nature and nutrition? Let’s dive in and make this National Hiking Day unforgettable!
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Kick Off Your Adventure: Embrace National Hiking Day!
National Hiking Day is just around the corner on November 17, a day to lace up those boots, grab your backpack, and dive into the beauty of the great outdoors. There’s something magical about leaving behind the noise of everyday life and stepping onto a quiet trail. Every step is a chance to reconnect, recharge, and breathe in that fresh air we sometimes forget to enjoy.
And here’s where a plant-based lifestyle shines. Hiking pairs perfectly with plant-based eating, offering sustained energy, simple snacks, and a lighter footprint on the planet. Plant-based foods are easy to pack, gentle on the stomach, and full of the nutrients you need to keep moving forward without the heaviness. So, this article is your guide to celebrating National Hiking Day with a purpose: exploring nature while nourishing your body with wholesome, plant-based foods for a fulfilling experience.
Hiking for Health: Feel the Benefits at Every Step
Turning 50 is just the beginning of new adventures, and hiking is a perfect way to keep moving forward, both in body and spirit. Let’s explore why hitting the trails is such a healthful choice, especially for those of us embracing the golden years.
Pump Up Your Heart: Circulation and Heart Health
Hiking keeps the heart pumping and blood flowing, essential as we age. The natural rhythm of walking strengthens our heart muscles, lowers blood pressure, and improves circulation. Every step helps your heart stay healthy and strong, all while surrounded by nature’s beauty. Who knew cardio could feel so peaceful?
Gentle on the Joints: Support for Mobility and Arthritis
Unlike high-impact exercises, hiking is gentle on your joints. The terrain helps build muscle strength around the knees and hips without the jarring impact of running. For those managing arthritis or joint sensitivity, hiking is an ideal choice. With every mile, you’re enhancing mobility without the discomfort.
Boost Your Mood: Nature’s Remedy for Stress
There’s something magical about being out in nature. Hiking not only exercises the body but calms the mind. Studies show that walking outdoors can reduce symptoms of depression, relieve anxiety, and improve mood overall. You can find a new sense of peace and joy out on the trail, with nothing but trees and sky around.
Strengthen Your Defenses: Immunity Support
A robust immune system becomes even more vital as the cooler months roll in. Moderate exercise, like hiking, boosts immune function, and fresh air provides protection. So, when you step out to hike, you’re not just taking in nature; you’re building resilience to stay healthier all season long.
With these incredible benefits, hiking isn’t just an activity; it’s an investment in lifelong health.
Fuel Your Hike with Plant Power: Energize the Natural Way
A hike in the fresh air deserves fuel that’s just as fresh! A plant-based diet is perfect for hiking, providing steady, natural energy without the heaviness of processed snacks. Here’s how plant-based foods can make your hiking experience even better.
Power Up with Lasting Energy: Plant Foods for Endurance
One of the best things about plant-based foods is the steady energy they provide. Unlike processed snacks that lead to energy spikes and crashes, whole fruits, nuts, and grains release energy slowly, helping you stay strong throughout the hike. Think of it as nature’s way of pacing you—no rush, no crash, just steady support.
Essential Nutrients for Every Step: Protein, Fiber, and Fats
Plant-based foods are packed with nutrients that support an active lifestyle. Protein from sources like nuts, seeds, and legumes helps your muscles recover and stay strong. Fiber from fruits and veggies keeps you feeling full and energized, while healthy fats, like those in avocados and nuts, provide long-lasting energy. Together, they give you everything you need for an effortless and fulfilling hike.
Light on the Stomach, Easy on the Trail: Digestive Comfort
The last thing you want during a hike is a heavy stomach slowing you down. Plant-based foods are naturally easier to digest, reducing the chances of discomfort while you’re out enjoying the trail. Whole foods keep your body light and energized, letting you focus on the journey, not on any digestive worries.
With a plant-powered diet, every step feels lighter, every view more enjoyable, and every snack a boost of natural energy.
Hiking Day Essentials: Set Yourself Up for Success
Ready to make the most of National Hiking Day? You can turn your outing into an unforgettable experience with a few simple tips. From choosing the right trail to gearing up and bringing loved ones, these essentials will help you hit the trail confidently.
Pick Your Perfect Path: Find a Trail That Fits You
Not every trail is created equal, and that’s a good thing! Start by picking a trail that matches your fitness level and interests. A local, scenic path can offer just as much charm as a distant destination. Nearby trails are often easier to explore, creating familiar spots you’ll love to revisit.
Gear Up for Comfort and Safety: Don’t Forget the Basics
Nothing makes a hike more enjoyable than the right gear. Start with a pair of comfortable shoes that can handle the terrain and remember layers for those changing weather moments. A refillable water bottle is a must for staying hydrated, and packing light snacks will keep your energy up. Think simple, think smart, and keep yourself prepared for whatever the trail brings.
Share the Joy: Bring Along Friends or Family
Hiking is a wonderful way to connect; sharing the experience with family or friends can make it even more special. Inviting a loved one along adds fun, support, and memories to your day. The shared moments and scenic views make for perfect photo opportunities, capturing National Hiking Day forever.
With these tips, you’re set to enjoy a smooth, successful hike that’s all about connecting with nature, staying safe, and enjoying every step.
Fuel Up with Plant-Based Goodness: Perfect Snacks for the Trail
The right snacks make all the difference when you’re out on the trail. These plant-based options are crafted to keep your energy steady, satisfy your taste buds, and fit right in with your hiking adventure. Let’s dive into two snack ideas that will have you reaching for more.
Nature’s Bounty Trail Mix: Quick Energy in Every Bite
Imagine a trail mix loaded with crunchy nuts, hearty seeds, and chewy dried fruits—Nature’s Bounty Trail Mix is all that and more. This snack is packed with natural sugars for a quick boost, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you going without that mid-hike crash. Lightweight, easy to pack, and deliciously satisfying, this mix is your perfect go-to for energy on the go.
Energizing Nature's Bounty Trail Mix
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ½ cup dried cranberries unsweetened, if possible
- ¼ cup dried apricots chopped
- ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips preferably 70% or higher cacao
- ¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- ¼ cup raisins
- 1 Tbsp chia seeds
- ½ tsp cinnamon optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
- Add in the dried cranberries, apricots, dark chocolate chips, coconut flakes, raisins, and chia seeds.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, if using, and toss everything together until well combined.
- Divide into portions or store the entire batch in an airtight container or resealable bags for easy snacking.
Notes
Nutrition
Smoky Maple Vegan Jerky: Savory Protein for the Journey
For a more savory bite, Smoky Maple Vegan Jerky is a delicious option. Made with high-protein soy curls or hearty mushrooms, this jerky brings a smoky, slightly sweet taste that’s perfect for long hikes. It’s chewy, flavorful, and packed with plant protein to help keep muscles fueled and hunger at bay. Plus, it’s easy to carry, making it an ideal companion for any hike.
Smoky Maple Vegan Jerky
Ingredients
- 2 cups soy curls or you may use thinly sliced portobello mushrooms
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp liquid smoke for extra smokiness
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for a little heat
Instructions
- Rehydrate the soy curls: Place the soy curls in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes, or until they are soft and pliable. Drain them well and press out any excess moisture.
- Marinate: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, liquid smoke, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the drained soy curls (or mushroom slices) to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°F (90°C) or use a dehydrator if you have one.
- Dry the jerky: Spread the marinated soy curls (or mushrooms) evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 2 hours, flipping halfway through, until they’re chewy and slightly crispy. If using a dehydrator, dry for 2–4 hours at 160°F (70°C), checking for your desired texture.
- Cool and store: Let the jerky cool completely before packing it in airtight containers or resealable bags for your hike.
Notes
Nutrition
Savor the Journey: Make Every Moment Count
Hiking isn’t just about reaching the end of the trail; it’s about soaking in each step, each view, and each breath of fresh air. Here are some simple ways to turn your hike into an experience you’ll truly cherish.
Hike with Presence: Embrace Mindful Hiking
Take time to pause along the trail and really take in your surroundings. Listen to the rustle of leaves, feel the ground beneath your feet, and take deep breaths to connect with the moment. Embracing gratitude as you hike makes the journey richer, filling it with calm and appreciation for the beauty around you. It’s more than a walk; it’s a time to refresh your mind and soul.
Create Lasting Memories: Capture Your Journey
Consider bringing along a journal or your phone for photos to capture the day. Snapping pictures of a favorite view or jotting down a few thoughts can make the hike more memorable. These small keepsakes will help you remember the places you saw and how you felt in those moments. They’ll turn a simple hike into a treasured memory.
End with Gratitude: Reflect and Appreciate
As you finish your hike, take a moment to reflect on the experience. Acknowledge the beauty you’ve witnessed and the way you’ve nourished your body along the way. Ending with gratitude can add a special note to the day, filling you with a sense of fulfillment and joy that lasts beyond the trail.
With these simple practices, your National Hiking Day outing will be more than a walk in nature—it will be a rejuvenating experience filled with gratitude and memories to last a lifetime.
Celebrate National Hiking Day: Nature and Nutrition in Perfect Harmony
National Hiking Day is the ideal time to experience the best of both worlds—nourishing your body with plant-based goodness and reconnecting with nature. Hiking offers physical benefits like heart health, joint support, and a boost to mental well-being, while a plant-based diet provides steady energy, essential nutrients, and a lighter impact on our planet. Together, they create a journey that’s as fulfilling for the soul as it is for the body.
So, this November 17, make it a day to remember. Find a new trail, explore a favorite spot, or simply enjoy a plant-powered snack while soaking in the scenery. However you choose to celebrate, National Hiking Day is about embracing health, gratitude, and the joy of the great outdoors. Ready to make this day unforgettable? The trail is calling—let’s answer!
Expect Miracles!
Until next time,
Julene
