From Running High School Cross Country Races to Walking Hiking Trails

An ex-high school cross country runner begins her hiking era.

When I graduated high school in 2020, I left as a student athlete on the cross country/track and field team throughout the four years. Throughout the pandemic, I continued to run 4-8 miles at least once a week around my neighborhood. I took advantage of empty streets and parks, mostly running on sidewalks and at the park. Still, I missed the breath of fresh air from cross country meets outside of the city. In high school, we took the archetypal yellow school bus to our 5k races in beautiful parks: Van Cortlandt Park, Sunken Meadows, Goddard State Park, and many more. I was so grateful for these trips where I explored trails as I ran with my team.

But as it turns out, running is not the only way to enjoy the beauty of nature.

In October, I turned to hiking as a new hobby and challenge to explore the trails New York has to offer. In another post, I've compiled a (short) list of my the trails I've completed in New York. As a bonus, these places are the perfect weekend getaway from the city.

Hiking is an outlet for the stress that comes with being a college student.

"The best views comes after the hardest climb" - Unknown

As a college student, I'm overwhelmed with ubiquitous pressure and stress during the week. There's a sense of dread as I envision my future filled with mind-numbing paperwork, virtual meetings, and superficial relationships. Climbing rocks, navigating forests, and breaking out a sweat is rewarding - just as rewarding as acing a test. There's a sense of peace that arrives when you huff and puff your way to the top of the mountain, covered in perspiration, dirt, and sometimes- leaves.

Whether you take the car or train, the scenery changes slowly as you look out the window; train stops, residential buildings, industrial plants, trees, the mountains, and the Hudson River.

Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the Earth are never alone or weary of life - Rachel Carson

"The NYC Hiking Effect"

Hiking is one of my favorite solo- and social - activities. The social aspect becomes natural: fellow hikers greet you as you pass one another and sometimes even motivate you ("you got this!"). As an introvert from NYC where strangers typically keep to themselves, this was very much a culture shock. However, I quickly learned to embrace and look forward to meeting new people on my favorite trails. A simple exchange of 'hello' or 'good morning' makes a surprising positive impact on the rest of your day.