Friday, January 22, 2021

Talk about hiking.

COVID-19 has ruled out overseas traveling for a while. Even when we travel domestically, we try to steer clear of crowded tourist destinations. That's why hiking is growing in popularity as a new trend.

Personally, I have been an avid hiker for over ten years. But I have never seen so many relatively young people in the mountains like these days. In the past, people in their 40s were the youngest hikers. But these days, more than half of all hikers are twenty-somethings. At the mountaintops, there are even long lines of poeple waiting their turns to take a snapshot.

Over 70% of Korea's land consists of mountains. In this country, hiking is one of the best ways to get some exercise. It does not require any specialized equipment or any money at all. These days, local governments also fix up the hiking trails so that even first-timers can easily enjoy the hiking experience.

When you go for a hike these days, aren't you seeing a lot more young people?

That's right. It feels like the average age of hikers have become much lower.

Do you think the coronavirus was a factor?

Sure. People can't travel, so they head over to the mountains.

Hiking is a healthy activity, so I guess it's good thing.

Of course. I think it's a change for the better.