Here are listed top sites about Hiking: What is Hiking? Hiking is a form of walking, undertaken with the specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. It usually takes place on trails in areas of relatively unspoiled wilderness, or in rural areas. Off-trail hiking is often called 'bushwalking', 'bushwhacking', 'bush-bashing' or 'cross country hiking'. Overnight hiking is more specifically called 'backpacking'. The word 'hiking' is understood in all English-speaking countries, but regional terms also exist. In the United Kingdom, the activity is often simply called 'walking'. Australians use the term bushwalking for both on- and off-trail hiking. New Zealanders commonly employ the word tramping, particularly for overnight trips. Hiking in the mountainous regions of Nepal and India is sometimes called 'trekking'. Hiking a long-distance trail from end to end is often referred to as thru-hiking.