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![A woman hikes with her dog through a field of wildflowers in Desolation Wilderness with the Crystal Range in the background near South Lake Tahoe, California A woman hikes with her dog through a field of wildflowers in Desolation Wilderness with the Crystal Range in the background near South Lake Tahoe, California](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/healthy-living/info-2019/hiking-tips/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_body1/container_body_cf/container_image/articlecontentfragment/cfimage.coreimg.50.932.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/healthy-living/2019/10/1140-woman-hiking-with-dog.jpg)
If the idea of mindlessly clicking off miles on a treadmill or elliptical machine at the gym leaves you uninspired, know there is a vastly more fulfilling and exhilarating exercise alternative: hiking. Surrounded by nature's beauty, you can challenge yourself in ways unimaginable in the gym. Studies have shown that being in nature reduces stress and improves your emotional outlook while strengthening muscles and building cardiovascular health. The best part? It doesn't cost anything to take a walk outside. If you get tired, you can turn around. If you get out of breath, take a break. And you can hike with your human or canine best friend.
Hiking and climbing have been my passion for two decades. I started climbing — accidentally — when I was 64 by following my 20-pound Australian terrier, Emme. The tiny dog insisted on going higher. Our hikes became climbs. I learned how to deal with adversity and the physical challenges of age. Together, man and dog, we were unstoppable and climbed the highest (14,000-plus feet) peaks in the Rockies.
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I wrote The Dog Who Took Me Up a Mountain to inspire others to try this breathtakingly beautiful outdoor experience. Here are some tips to help make your hike safe and enjoyable. (Please note: Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.)
![The book cover for 'The Dog Who Took Me Up a Mountain The book cover for 'The Dog Who Took Me Up a Mountain](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/healthy-living/info-2019/hiking-tips/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_body1/container_body_cf/body_one_cf_one/par3/body_one_callout_one/cfimage.coreimg.50.932.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/healthy-living/2019/10/1140-1762-the-dog-who-took-me-up-a-mountain.jpg)
1. Start small
Physical conditioning is achieved by starting with shorter hikes and gradually building up to more challenging hikes. This will help avoid muscle pulls, joint pain and spasms. Be cautious. Hiking is about health, joyfulness and smelling the roses, not competitiveness.
2. Plan your hike
Before you go, familiarize yourself with the trail. Google “local hiking trails” or a specific trail name. Spend time reviewing where it will take you and the level of difficulty.
3. Go with a buddy
Choose a compatible or supportive buddy. You shouldn't feel pressure to go too fast or keep up. Hike with someone who wants to share this adventure with you.
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