Trekking, or mountain walking? It's much more than just a mountain trip! Imagine that you're traversing wild trails, conquering steep slopes, and your home for a few days is a tent set up under the starry sky. Sounds intriguing? That's exactly it. the essence of trekking!
In this article, you will learn how this activity differs from regular hiking. You will learn about the types of trekking – from mountain to polar, its advantages and tips for a good start. Whether you are an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or a beginner mountain hiking enthusiast, you will definitely find something for yourself here.
According to the official definition of the PWN Dictionary of the Polish Language trekking (from English trek – hike) is a "hiking expedition in an exotic, difficult and inaccessible region". But what does this mean in practice?
Trekking is not just a walk in the park! It is a full-scale adventure that combines elements of hiking, climbing and wilderness exploration. This form of activity requires not only physical strength but also mental resilience.
Usually it is a longer or multi-day hike that takes place in demanding terrain and often in difficult climatic conditions. It can be crossing a desert, hiking on a glacier or struggling through a dense jungle. Characteristically for trekking, the routes can be off the beaten path, in desolate places. Trekkers (people who do trekking) often spend the night in tents and carry all their equipment with them, which requires not only the right equipment, but also solid physical preparation.
Although people have been wandering the mountains for thousands of years, trekking as a form of tourism was born relatively recently. Its "father" is considered to be British Colonel Jimmy Roberts, a legendary mountaineer and explorer. Roberts, who in 1953 was the first to climb the six-thousander Mera Peak, founded a trekking agency in 1964 Mountain Travel Nepal. Roberts' agency also organized expeditions for people with no experience in mountain hiking, which opened the world of high mountains to a wider audienceIt is since the 1950s that we can talk about trekking as a popular form of tourist activity.
Today, trekking is not only a way to spend time actively, but also a philosophy of travel. It is a chance for a deep connection with nature, a test of one's own abilities and a unique opportunity to discover the wildest corners of our planet.
How does trekking differ from a regular mountain trip? First of all, in terms of length and intensity. Trekking is usually multi-day expedition, during which one overcomes tens of kilometers in diverse terrain. It requires better physical and mental preparation than a short walk along a mountain trail.
Trekking often involves spending the night on the trail – whether in shelters, tents or under the open sky. What’s more, trekking routes often lead through less frequented, more wild areas. This gives you the chance to meet wildlife and observe rare species of plants and animals.
Trekking is one of the most accessible outdoor activities. It doesn't require expensive equipment to start with - comfortable shoes, a backpack and basic equipment are enough. You can start with short routes near your home, gradually increasing the distance and difficulty.
Trekking engages almost all muscle groups. It is a great way to improve your overall fitness, strengthen your leg, back and abdominal muscles. Regular hiking also helps maintain a healthy weight and improves the efficiency of your circulatory and respiratory systems.
You can do trekking at different paces and levels of difficulty. You can easily adjust the intensity of your training to your current form and goals. It is an ideal activity for both beginners and advanced athletes.
Regular trekking helps reduce stress and improves sleep quality. Physical activity in the fresh air stimulates the production of endorphins, which translates into better well-being and reduced symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Trekking teaches many useful skills, such as map reading, orientation, survival basics, and route planning. These skills can be useful not only during hiking, but also in everyday life.
By choosing trekking as a form of spending your free time, you can save on transport costs and expensive accommodation. Many trekking routes start near the town, and accommodation in year-round summer cottages are campsites much cheaper than hotels?
Remember, however, that each season brings different attractions and challenges on the trail – from spring flowering meadows, through summer mountain hikes, autumn admiration of colours, to winter snowshoe trails.
Dreaming of trekking but don't know where to start? Don't worry, everyone was a beginner! We've prepared a few proven tips for beginners, which will help you start your trekking adventure safely and with pleasure.
To start, choose easy, well-marked trails. In the Śnieżnik Massif, the area around Stronie Śląskie or Międzygórze is a great place to start. Start with short, one-day trips, gradually increasing the distance and difficulty. What is worth remembering at the beginning?
Before you hit the trail, take care of your condition. Regular walks, jogging or cycling will help you prepare for the challenges of trekking. Also remember to stretch – flexible muscles mean less risk of injury. At the same time, focus on proper mental preparation:
Plan your route carefully. Check the weather forecast, walking time, accommodation options (if you are planning a longer trip). Inform your loved ones about your plans - it is important for your safety.
Key planning elements:
Don't forget about the right equipment, adapted to the type of trekking. A list of useful things to take with you for classic trekking in summer can be found in our article: What to take to the mountains in summer? Prepare with us! In addition, remember to stay overnight. If you are going on a multi-day trek, a good base camp will be overnight stay at the foot of the mountain, which you intend to explore. In this case, you must also take care of overnight accommodation during the trek – in a tent or in shelters that will be located on your route.
