Yes, just choose trails appropriately, make sure you have a phone with you at all times (and don't go on trails with no service) and hike with a friend if you are nervous. Tons of very easy, level trails around here that are well maintained.

Anonymous wrote:What is the difference between hiking and walking? Is it the distance or is it that hiking is more in the woods?

I take frequent long walks which encompass sidewalks and trails in a nearby wooded area. The county has recently “improved” the wooded area, adding tennis courts at one end and paving some of the trails that until recently were just dirt paths.

I like to walk these areas quite a bit- am I just walking or am I hiking? And if not, when does a walk become a hike?

Imo, hiking takes place in the woods on varied terrain and elevations, definitely dirt path, maybe some creek crossings. I don't hike for more than 2 hours and usually only an hour at a time. If it's paved, that's a walk.

Boots that go over the ankles, because of snakes.

I'd think about how far I want to be from search and rescue services if say, you have a heart attack.

Always take water and wear good shoes.

I'm a past dumb hiker who should probably be dead, but I somehow am not.

Make sure you know the terrain--if you'll be near a cliff you can't see easily due to overgrowth, for instance.
Have bright clothing in case you need to be spotted by a helicopter
Have a whistle.
Water
Always bring something to keep you warm! Yes, even in summer.
Bear spray, if applicable

Look at that REI list for what else to carry.

If you are deep in the woods, the cell phone may not be usable. Think through what else you'd need to survive rain, cold, bears, etc.

What is the difference between hiking and walking? Is it the distance or is it that hiking is more in the woods?

I take frequent long walks which encompass sidewalks and trails in a nearby wooded area. The county has recently “improved” the wooded area, adding tennis courts at one end and paving some of the trails that until recently were just dirt paths.

I like to walk these areas quite a bit- am I just walking or am I hiking? And if not, when does a walk become a hike?

Thank you all.

In addition to what has been said before:

Always have the Ten Essentials with you!

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html

Take appropriate precautions. Get a hiking stick, supportive footwear with good traction, hike with a buddy, and always bring some water and food. Check out info about trails beforehand and build up the difficulty gradually.

+1 for All Trails

I admit, I am a huge fan of solo hikes, though I understand there is a risk.

As others have said: start with easy trails, use hiking poles, go with a partner, and bring a phone. A shoe sturdier that a sneaker is good, but if you do get into it, get hiking boots. If you're going on a longer hike, bring water and a snack.

The dangerous parts are wet, leaf-covered trails, mud, puddles, and trails with a lot of roots or rocks.

Google hiking or walking clubs in your area and join to get started. A lot of hiking is learned by going with experienced hikers.

I'm 67 with a bit of arthritis and do easy hikes now, but still love it.

Hiking stick and don't go by yourself!

I’m 58 with several knee surgeries. I hike weekly. I do not go on new trails by myself, but hike solo often on known trails. Start off on “easy” hikes. There is an app called All Trails which will tell you a lot about trails around you. Make sure you have a phone and maybe a hiking stick. Get fitted for good hiking boots. Hiking brings me a great deal of joy.

If you are touching 60 and have arthritis or osteoporosis issues, is it a good idea to take up hiking on trails? Any safety tips or warnings?