BANGOR DAILY NEWS • April 25, 2023
“Soft hiking” has recently become all the rage on TikTok, and the funny thing is it’s nothing new. You’ve probably been soft hiking plenty of times yourself. Soft hiking, as Hird and Thornton define it, is hiking with the goal of simply enjoying yourself, with an emphasis on slowing down, exploring, taking breaks and being present in the moment. Soft hiking is about being happy outdoors. It involves a bit of meandering. And while you might reach the top of a mountain in the process, it’s OK if you don’t. It’s low-pressure, low-stakes adventuring. And packing a good snack seems to be crucial. TikTok trends come and go. But I hope this fad, and the friendly term “soft hiking,” sticks around. It’s nice to be able to put a name to my more leisurely treks.