You Might Be A Hiker If.......

With apologies to Jeff Foxworthy's famous catchphrase,

you might be a hiker if...

(Photograph courtesy of Patricia McAlpin) 

You might be a hiker if... you know that a bladder is a hydration source rather than a body part.  Here is a great article from Outdoor Gear Lab on selecting the right hydration bladder. 

You might be a hiker if... you know that Gaiters are something to wear rather than a creature which lurks in the swamps of Florida. Here is a great article from Section Hiker. 

You might be a hiker if you hear someone mention boots and immediately think of hiking boots rather than the high-heeled ones worn with blue jeans.  Here is great resource to shop for hiking boots. 

You might be a hiker if you use a bandanna as part of your hiking gear rather than a gang symbol.   Here is a great article on the many uses of a bandanna.  

You might be a hiker if you buy a backpack for something other than books.   Here is great advice from REI on how to choose the right backpack. 

You might be a hiker if you salivate at the thought of trail mix for lunch. Here’s an article on the nutritional value of trail mix. 

You might be a hiker if you get up earlier to go hiking than you do for work.  Here is an article on the wonderful benefits of nature therapy.

You might be a hiker if your vacations are planned around great hiking trails instead of amusement parks or beaches.  Here’s an article from National Geographic on the best U.S. Hiking Cities.  

You might be a hiker if you trade your 4-door highway cruiser for a trail-friendly SUV. Here is an article on the Best Vehicles for the great outdoors. 

And finally, if you know how to pronounce and spell plantar fasciitis, you just might be an enthusiastic hiker.  Here is an article on the affliction suffered by many hikers.  

With apologies to my favorite redneck comedian, Jeff Foxworthy, I hope you've enjoyed today's post and determined whether indeed you are a hiker so you can "Keep On Hiking".