My Favorite Inspirational Walking Quotes

If I wasn’t a hiker, I would never have started this blog, I wouldn’t have walked the Camino, hiked all over the Rockies, and into the bargain, found something that I love and keeps me reasonably fit.

No other form of exercise is as simple as hiking and walking. It’s a kind of activity that almost anyone can engage in and comes with many physical and mental benefits. People are even able to hike for charity. Walking allows people to reconnect with their thoughts, challenge their bodies, and meet and befriend many like-minded people and it can also change their lives.

However, even though most of us know about the benefits of walking, sometimes we may need a little inspiration. Whether you’re planning an afternoon wander along the coast, a strenuous mountain climb, or a long trip through the woods, the following walking quotes will motivate you to take your hiking shoes and get out on the trail.

Best Mountain Walking Quotes From Inspired Storytellers

1. Pain Reminds me I am Alive

Me

I don’t know what this says about me when my favorite hiking quote is my own creation. This was one that I came up with while walking the Camino de Santiago. I started off in the South of France with blisters before taking my first step. The previous day I had walked around a very hot Paris in sandals and developed a few blisters.

For the first week of my Camino, I tightly wrapped my heels before starting each day. It was only sore for a short period, and my mantra kept me going and helped me develop gratitude for just being where I was.

2. The danger of adventure is worth a thousand days of ease and comfort. 

Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho was also a hiker and walked the Camino long before it became so popular again. I am getting on a plane tomorrow and flying to Scotland. I will go hiking and walk up Ben Lomond, a small mountain I have walked at least ten times before. Hiking routes are like music I can walk them again and again.

Alternatively, I could stay at home and stay safe. It is a very short life, grab it and play.

3. Methinks that the moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow.

Henry David Thoreau

Henry David Thoreau was an American writer, poet, and philosopher who is best known for his book “Walden,” which is a reflection on his experiences living in a cabin in the woods near Walden Pond. In that work, Thoreau writes about the simple, natural life he leads and the lessons he learns about himself, society, and the world.

This quote is from his book “Walden” and it suggests that when he is out walking or moving his body, his mind is also active. He gets into a flow state where thoughts and ideas come to him naturally and easily. This idea is not unique to Thoreau and is supported by modern studies on how physical activity can affect cognitive function and creativity.

In other words, Thoreau believed that when he is physically active, his mind also becomes active, generating thoughts and ideas which would not have come to him while sitting and doing nothing.

4. Not all who wander are lost.

J.R.R. Tolkien

Yes, that is a quote from J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of “The Lord of the Rings” and other fantasy novels. The quote, “Not all who wander are lost,” is often used to express the idea that it’s okay to explore and take risks in life, even if it means going off the beaten path or deviating from a set plan.

Tolkien was a master storyteller and used his writing to transport the readers to a different world and explore the characters’ journeys. In this quote, he suggests that wandering, or traveling without a specific destination in mind, can be a valuable and meaningful experience. It can open you up to new perspectives and experiences and can lead to self-discovery and growth.

The quote can be interpreted in different ways, for some, it may be about physical wanderings, for others, it can be about the journey of self-discovery (like the Camino) and not being stuck in a particular direction in life. It also has a feeling of freedom, and that you’re not limited or bound by any specific path or goal.

In any case, the quote is a reminder that taking risks, trying new things, and having a sense of adventure can be rewarding and should not be discouraged.

5. The woods are lovely, dark and deep. But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.

Robert Frost

This quote from Robert Frost, is from his poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.”

The poem describes the speaker’s experience of stopping by a forest on a snowy evening, and their feelings of temptation to stay in the peaceful, serene woods and delay their journey home. However, the speaker realizes they have responsibilities and promises that they must keep, and a journey they must complete before they can rest.

This quote can be interpreted in many ways, but generally, it is understood as a metaphor for the choices and responsibilities in life. The “woods” represent the alluring and easy path, where one can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, but the speaker has obligations to fulfill and miles to go before they can rest. The poem speaks about how one can be tempted by the easier options in life but the responsibilities must be fulfilled.

This quote can be interpreted as a reminder that life is not always easy, but that it is important to stay true to our commitments and responsibilities, and to keep working towards our goals. It’s also a reminder that it is important to take time to enjoy and appreciate life’s beauty, but also not to get lost in it and forget our responsibilities.

6. My father considered a walk among the mountains as the equivalent of churchgoing.

Aldous Huxley

This is a quote from Aldous Huxley, an English writer, philosopher, and one of the most prominent members of the Huxley family. He is best known for his novels “Brave New World” and “Island.” He wrote many kinds of literature, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry,

The quote is from Huxley’s book “Beyond the Mexique Bay,” a collection of travel essays he wrote. The quote, “My father considered a walk among the mountains as the equivalent of churchgoing.” expresses how Huxley’s father believed that the natural beauty of the mountains could be a powerful spiritual experience and a source of inspiration and contemplation, similar to that of a religious experience in a church.

This quote is a reminder of the power of nature and its ability to inspire and uplift the human spirit. It’s a reminder that nature can be a powerful source of inspiration and rejuvenation and that it can serve as a reminder of something greater than ourselves. The quote suggests that for some people, being in nature can be a spiritual experience and a way to connect to the sacred and something greater than oneself.

Huxley was a deep thinker and writer, he wrote extensively about topics related to the meaning of life, human nature, and spiritual quest. He was fascinated by the relationship between man and nature and believed they mutually benefit each other.

This quote expresses his view that nature can be a powerful source of inspiration and contemplation and it can be a reminder of the sacred and something greater than ourselves.

7. He who limps is still walking.

Stanislaw Lec

The above quote is from Stanislaw Jerzy Lec, a Polish aphorist, poet, and translator. He was also a writer, playwright, and journalist. He is best known for his books of aphorisms and for his satirical poems.

The quote “He who limps is still walking” reminds us that even when we face difficulties, we can still move forward. It suggests that even though we may have limitations or setbacks, we should not let them stop us from moving forward and progressing in life. It’s a reminder that we should not let our obstacles define us or discourage us, but rather see them as a challenge that can be overcome.

Lec’s aphorisms were characterized by wit, satire, and irony. They were simple and direct and often dealt with existential themes. He wrote about the human condition, the meaning of life, and the importance of maintaining a sense of humor in the face of difficulties.

This quote is often interpreted as an encouragement to persevere, even in the face of adversity. It’s a reminder that even when we face difficult times, we should not give up; instead, we should keep moving forward. It is also a reminder not to let obstacles define us but rather to take them as a challenge and to keep moving forward, no matter how hard it is.

8. People don’t take trips, trips take people.

John Steinbeck

This quote is attributed to John Steinbeck, an American author, and journalist, who is known for his works that portray the lives of the working class and migrant workers during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl.

In this quote, Steinbeck suggests that people do not choose to go on a trip, but rather, trips choose them. He implies that there is something about the experience of traveling that is transformative and that trips have a way of shaping the people who go on them. Trips can change people’s perspectives, broaden their horizons, and teach them new things.

The quote reflects Steinbeck’s understanding of the power of travel to change people’s lives. He believed that traveling is not just about the destination but also about the journey and that the experiences and lessons learned while traveling can be more valuable than the destination itself.

Steinbeck was also known for his love of travel, he often took road trips with his friends and wrote about his travels, his experiences, and the people he met. His works, such as “Travels with Charley” and “America and Americans” are a reflection of his passion for travel and the insights he gained from it.

9. I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.

Henry David Thoreau

This quote is attributed to Henry David Thoreau, an American essayist, poet, and philosopher known for his works such as “Walden” and “Civil Disobedience” which reflect his love of nature and his belief in living a simple and self-sufficient life.

In this quote, Thoreau suggests that a walk in the woods has the power to make a person feel taller and stronger than the trees. He implies that being in nature has a positive effect on a person’s physical and mental well-being. It has the power to give them a sense of perspective and to make them feel empowered.

The quote reflects Thoreau’s belief that nature has the power to heal and to give people a sense of perspective. He believed that being in nature can help people to reconnect with their inner selves and to find peace and tranquility. He also believed that nature has the power to inspire and empower people.

Thoreau himself was an advocate of the importance of spending time in nature, he spent two years living in a cabin in the woods near Walden Pond, and wrote about his experiences in his book “Walden.” This quote is a reflection of the inspiration and perspective he gained from his experiences in nature.

10. Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist, lecturer, and poet, who lived in the 19th century. He is considered one of the most influential figures in American literature and philosophy.

In this quote, Emerson encourages people to be independent thinkers and to forge their own path in life. He advises people not to simply follow the path that others have laid out for them, but to go where there is no path and to create their own trail. He implies that people should not be afraid to take risks and to chart their own course in life, rather than following the crowd.

This quote reflects Emerson’s belief in individualism and self-reliance, which are central themes in his writing. He believed that every person has the potential to realize their own unique potential, and that society should not impose its own values and beliefs on individuals. He encourages people to think for themselves and to be true to themselves.

The quote is also a call to action, to be a trailblazer, to be a pioneer, to be a leader, to be a person that sets the path for others to follow, who is not afraid to take risks and to chart their own course in life. It’s a reminder to be daring and to strive for greatness, and to be a leader rather than a follower.

11. Walking is the favorite sport of the good and wise.

A. L. Rowse

A. L. Rowse, was an English historian, poet, and author. He was a Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford, and from 1957 to 1970 was Professor of Modern History at the University of Oxford. He was known for his works on Elizabethan England and his poetry.

In this quote, A. L. Rowse suggests that walking is a sport that is favored by people who are good and wise. He implies that walking is a healthy and beneficial activity that is not just for physical fitness, but also for mental and spiritual well-being.

The quote reflects Rowse’s appreciation for the benefits of walking and its ability to improve the overall well-being of an individual. He believed that walking is a simple yet powerful way to improve the health of both the body and the mind, and that it is an activity that is enjoyed by people who are good and wise.

12. Walking takes longer…than any other known form of locomotion except crawling. Thus it stretches time and prolongs life. Life is already too short to waste on speed.

Edward Abbey

Edward Abbey an American author, essayist, and environmentalist. He is best known for his works, such as “Desert Solitaire” and “The Monkey Wrench Gang,” which reflect his love of nature and his beliefs in environmental conservation and individual freedom.

In this quote, Abbey suggests that walking takes longer than any other form of locomotion, except crawling. He implies that the slower pace of walking stretches time and prolongs life. He also suggests that life is already too short to waste on speed, and that people should take the time to slow down and enjoy the journey.

The quote reflects Abbey’s belief in the importance of taking the time to appreciate nature and the beauty of the world around us. He believed that walking is a way to slow down and to connect with nature, and that it allows people to appreciate the world around them in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Abbey himself was known for his love of nature and his appreciation for the slower pace of life. He often wrote about the importance of taking the time to appreciate the natural world, and the need to slow down and to enjoy the journey. This quote reflects his ideas on the importance of slowing down and taking the time to appreciate the beauty of the world around us.

13. Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go.

T.S. Eliot

T.S. Eliot was a playwright, and literary critic, who was one of the leading poets of the 20th century. He is best known for his works such as “The Waste Land” and “Four Quartets,” which are considered among the most important and influential poems of the 20th century.

In this quote, Eliot suggests that in order to discover one’s own limitations and capabilities, one must be willing to take risks and to push beyond their comfort zones. He implies that those who are willing to take risks and to push themselves to their limits are the ones who are most likely to discover their true potential.

The quote reflects Eliot’s belief in the importance of taking risks and pushing oneself to achieve one’s goals. He believed that it is only by taking risks and pushing oneself to the limit that one can truly discover what they are capable of achieving.

The quote is a call to action, it encourages people to be daring and to strive for greatness, and not to be afraid of failure. It’s a reminder that only by taking risks, we can achieve more and find out what we are truly capable of.

14. Thoughts come clearly while one walks.

Thomas Mann

Thomas Mann, a German novelist, short-story writer, social critic, philanthropist, essayist, and the 1929 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate. He was one of the most famous German writers of the 20th century.

In this quote, Mann suggests that walking is an effective way to clear the mind and to think more clearly. He implies that the act of walking can help to organize and clarify one’s thoughts, allowing them to think more clearly and creatively.

The quote reflects Mann’s belief in the power of walking as a form of meditation and as a way to clear the mind and to focus the thoughts. It’s a reminder that walking is not only a physical activity but also a mental one. It can be a way to organize and clarify one’s thoughts, to gain new perspectives, and to make new connections.

Mann himself was known for his love of walking, and he often wrote about the importance of walking in his works. He believed that walking was an important part of his creative process, and that it helped him to organize and clarify his thoughts. This quote reflects his belief in the power of walking to improve mental clarity and focus.

15. A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are built for.

John A. Shedd

John A. Shedd, an American author, educator, and businessman. He was a president of Marshall Field and Company, a Chicago-based department store, and later became a professor of English literature and philosophy at Lake Forest College in Illinois. He is best known for his book “Salt from My Attic,” a collection of essays and poems, which was published in 1928.

In this quote, Shedd uses the metaphor of a ship to suggest that people should not be content to stay in a safe and comfortable place, but should instead be willing to take risks and to venture out into the world. He implies that people should not be afraid to leave their comfort zones and to pursue their dreams, even if it means facing challenges and uncertainties.

The quote reflects Shedd’s belief in the importance of taking risks and pursuing one’s dreams. He believed that people should not be content to stay in a safe and comfortable place, but should instead be willing to take risks and to venture out into the world in order to achieve their goals.

It’s a call to action to be daring, to take risks and to pursue our dreams, it encourages us to not be content with staying in a safe and comfortable place, but to strive for more, to push ourselves and to achieve our goals.
It’s a reminder that ships are built to sail, and that’s what they are meant to do, to voyage and to explore, and the same goes for us, we are meant to push ourselves to achieve our goals and to explore the world around us.

Walking Quotes From Philosophers

1. Walking is a man’s best medicine.

Hippocrates

This quote is often attributed to the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who is considered the father of modern medicine.

This statement highlights the importance of physical activity in maintaining good health. Regular exercise, such as walking, can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, improve cardiovascular health, and improve mental well-being. It can also help with weight management and maintaining a healthy weight. The benefits of walking are many, and it is an easy, low-impact exercise that people of all ages and fitness levels can do.

It’s worth noting that while this quote is often attributed to Hippocrates, it may not be an actual quote that he said. But it is certainly true on many levels, and he did advocate walking as a form of therapy in his book “Airs, Waters, Places” from 400 BC.

It is a reminder that incorporating physical activity into our daily routines is an important aspect of maintaining good health.

2. All truly great thoughts are conceived by walking.

Friedrich Nietzsche

Yes, that is a quote from the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. It often highlights the connection between physical activity, mainly walking, and creativity.

Nietzsche believed walking helped him think and reflect on deep and complex ideas. He wrote in his notebooks, “I cannot help but walk, thus I write.” This quote expresses that physical activity and walking, in particular, can positively affect one’s ability to think, reflect and conceive ideas.

Walking as a form of physical activity is good for the body and appears to be beneficial for the mind and cognitive function. A growing body of research suggests that walking can improve creativity and problem-solving abilities. The act of walking can help clear the mind, allowing for new and different thoughts to come through, and providing an alternative perspective – maybe this is one of the reasons why the Camino de Santiago changes people. It also has a meditative quality that can aid in releasing stress and tension, which can benefit mental well-being, allowing you to think more clearly and creatively.

So, in summary, this quote by Nietzsche is saying that walking can help inspire new and great ideas by allowing the mind to relax and wander, providing an environment for creativity to flourish.

3. It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.

Confucius

It is debated whether this quote is actually from Confucius or not. I still like the thought behind it.

This quote encourages people to keep moving forward, even if progress is slow. It reminds us that success and progress take time, and it is important to be patient and persistent in pursuit of our goals. It emphasizes that we must continue to take action and not give up, even when the progress is slow. Walking the Camino de Santiago can feel slow, and often it is better not to rush, but progress is made with every step.

Whether it is from Confucius or not, this quote is an encouragement to all of us to stay on our path and not to give up, to remind us to focus on the long-term goal and never to give up no matter how long it takes.

4. Above all, do not lose your desire to walk.

Soren Kierkegaard

Although the province of this quote is debated, it is thought that it is from Søren Kierkegaard. Walking is one of the simplest and most natural forms of exercise, it has a way of connecting us with the world around us, and it can be an opportunity to reflect and think. The quote is encouraging people to maintain an interest and desire for walking, as it can be a source of inspiration and rejuvenation.

It could be a reminder to maintain the desire to continue moving forward in life, to keep moving forward and to not lose sight of the things that we care about, whether it’s a personal goal or simply a love for walking and exploring the world around us.

5. I can only meditate when I am walking, when I stop I cease to think; my mind only works with my legs.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

The above quote is from Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a French philosopher, writer, and political theorist. He was a key figure during the French Enlightenment and is best known for his ideas on social contract theory and the concept of the “noble savage.”

The quote is from Rousseau’s Confessions, where he wrote about his practice of walking as a way to meditate and think. The quote, “I can only meditate when I am walking, when I stop, I cease to think; my mind only works with my legs.” expresses his belief that walking was essential for his ability to think and reflect. He found that when he was walking, he was more able to contemplate the issues that concerned him.

This quote highlights the connection between walking and thinking. It suggests that walking can help to clear the mind, allowing new ideas to come through and providing an alternative perspective. A growing body of research suggests that walking can improve creativity and problem-solving abilities. Walking can help clear the mind, allowing for new and different thoughts to come through and providing an alternative perspective. It also has a meditative quality that can aid in releasing stress and tension, which can benefit mental well-being, allowing you to think more clearly and creatively.

This quote is a reminder that walking is not only good for physical health, but it can also positively affect one’s ability to think and reflect. It is a gentle reminder to incorporate walking as part of our daily routines, as it can be a valuable tool for mental well-being, personal growth, and self-discovery.

6. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Lao Tzu

Even though the most popular Camino is only 500 miles, this still rings true. This is likely the most famous journey quote, but it can be about any journey.

This quote is often used as a reminder to not be overwhelmed by the enormity of a task or goal, but to focus instead on taking the first step. It suggests that no matter how daunting or difficult a task may seem, it can be accomplished by breaking it down into smaller steps and taking the first step towards it. This quote encourages people to start something, rather than wait for the perfect moment or the perfect plan.

This quote is a reminder that even the most challenging goals can be achieved by breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps and taking consistent action towards them. It is a reminder to begin with the small steps and not to be discouraged by the distance you have to go, but to stay focus on the first step and to keep moving forward.

7. History begins at ground level, with footsteps.

Michel de Certeau

This quote by Michel de Certeau suggests that history is created and understood through people’s everyday experiences and actions. By emphasizing “ground level” and “footsteps,” the quote implies that history is not just made by powerful individuals or events, but by the collective actions and movements of regular people.

Michel de Certeau (1925-1986) was a French philosopher, cultural theorist and historian. He is best known for his work in the field of cultural studies, particularly for his book “The Practice of Everyday Life” (1980) which has been widely influential in the fields of cultural studies, sociology, anthropology, and urban studies.

8. Walking has something in it which animates and heightens my ideas: I can scarcely think when I stay in one place.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

This quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a French philosopher, writer and political theorist of the 18th century. He is best known for his works such as “The Social Contract” and “Emile” which reflect his ideas on the social contract, individual freedom and the education of children.

In this quote, Rousseau suggests that walking has a positive effect on his ability to think and to generate ideas. He implies that walking animates and heightens his ideas, and that he is able to think more clearly and creatively when he is walking. He also implies that staying in one place can be detrimental to his ability to think.

The quote reflects Rousseau’s belief in the power of nature and of walking, to stimulate the mind and to promote creativity. He believed that by being in nature and moving, it allowed him to clear his mind and to think more deeply about the things that he was contemplating.

Rousseau himself was known for his love of nature and for taking long walks, he often wrote about the inspiration he found in nature and the positive effects it had on his mind and creativity. His works reflect his ideas on the importance of nature in the life of human being and the need to connect with it.

9. If you are in a bad mood go for a walk. If you are still in a bad mood go for another walk.

Hippocrates

This quote is attributed to Hippocrates, a Greek physician of the 5th century BCE, who is considered the father of Western medicine. He is best known for the Hippocratic Oath, which is still taken by doctors today, and for his book “The Hippocratic Corpus,” a collection of medical texts.

In this quote, Hippocrates suggests that going for a walk can help to improve one’s mood and that doing it twice can be more effective. He implies that walking can be an effective way to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and that it can be a natural way to improve mental well-being.

The quote reflects Hippocrates’ belief in the power of nature to heal and to promote good health. He believed that nature has the power to heal the body and the mind, and that walking is a simple yet powerful way to improve physical and mental health.

It’s a reminder that walking is an easy and effective way to improve our mood and mental well-being. It suggests that if you’re in a bad mood, you should go for a walk, and if you’re still in a bad mood after that, you should go for another walk. This is a simple and natural way to improve mental well-being.

Walking Quotes from Well-known Hikers

1. Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.

John Muir

Yes, that is a quote from John Muir, a naturalist, and conservationist best known for preserving the natural beauty of the United States, particularly the Sierra Nevada mountains in California.

Muir is encouraging people to take time to explore and experience nature and to walk on the earth’s natural paths. This quote emphasizes the importance of spending time in the natural world and connecting with the natural environment. He believed that spending time in nature was vital for the mind and body and could be a source of inspiration and rejuvenation.

Nature has a way of calming the mind, and it can be very therapeutic. Being in nature allows one to disconnect from the distractions of modern technology and the busyness of everyday life, it offers a sense of peace, tranquility, and tranquility. For Muir, walking on dirt paths in nature was a way to reconnect with the natural world and find meaning in life.

This quote by John Muir is a reminder to take the time to explore nature and to make sure to include it in your life. It’s a way to reconnect with the earth and find balance in life.

And another quote from John Muir.

2. In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

John Muir

The quote, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks,” highlights the idea that nature has a way of providing unexpected benefits, it can give back much more than we expect. This can take many forms, such as gaining a sense of perspective, feeling more energized, or simply feeling at peace. By taking a walk in nature, one may not know what they will gain, but it is almost guaranteed that they will come back with something valuable.

3. Walking is the natural recreation for a person who desires not absolutely to suppress his intellect but to turn it out to play for a season.

Leslie Stephen

Leslie Stephen, an English author, critic, and mountaineer. He was one of the leading figures of the Victorian literary and intellectual elite, and a founding editor of the Dictionary of National Biography. He is best known for his work as a literary critic, and his book “Hours in a Library” which is a collection of his essays.

In this quote, Stephen suggests that walking is an effective way to take a break from one’s intellectual pursuits and to relax and recharge the mind. He implies that walking allows people to enjoy the natural world, to clear their minds, and to let their intellect play for a while.

The quote reflects Stephen’s belief in the importance of taking breaks and stepping away from one’s intellectual pursuits in order to recharge the mind. He believed that walking is an effective way to take a break from one’s intellectual pursuits and to relax and recharge the mind.

This quote is also a call to action, reminding us that we should not suppress our intellect but to turn it out to play for a season. It’s a reminder that we should take breaks and engage in activities that allow our mind to relax, recharge and to enjoy the natural world. It suggests that walking is a natural way to do this, allowing us to clear our minds, and to let our intellect play for a while.

Walking Quotes by Famous People

1. I could never resist the call of the trail.

Buffalo Bill

This quote is attributed to William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody, an American scout, bison hunter, and showman. He was one of the most colorful figures of the American Old West and was famous for the traveling Wild West shows he organized, which featured cowboy themes, Indian themes, and reenactments of famous battles. The quote suggests that Buffalo Bill was drawn to explore and travel through the wilderness and that the call of the trail was too strong for him to resist.

2. I can remember walking as a child. It was not customary to say you were fatigued. It was customary to complete the goal of the expedition.

Katharine Hepburn

This quote is attributed to Katharine Hepburn, an American actress who had a career spanning over 60 years and is considered one of the greatest actresses in the history of American cinema. She was known for her independent spirit and strong will. The quote suggests that she grew up in a time and place where people were expected to be resilient and determined to achieve their goals, regardless of difficulties or fatigue, and that she was taught to complete her goals as a child.

3. Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far.

Thomas Jefferson

This quote is attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and one of the United States’ Founding Fathers. He was a polymath who was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and later served as the nation’s second vice president and third president. The quote suggests that Thomas Jefferson believed that walking is an excellent form of exercise and encourages people to make a habit of walking long distances.

It also reflects his belief in the benefits of physical activity and the importance of regular exercise for overall health and well-being.

4. I believe in evolution. But I also believe, when I hike the Grand Canyon and see it at sunset, that the hand of God is there also.

John McCain

In this quote, John McCain expresses his belief in evolution, which is a scientific explanation for the development of life on Earth. Evolutionary theory states that all life on Earth is related and has descended from a common ancestor, with natural selection being the driving force behind the gradual changes in species over time. This is a widely accepted scientific explanation for the diversity of life on Earth.

But, he also believes that there is a spiritual or divine aspect to the world, and its natural wonders, such as the Grand Canyon, that the hand of God is there also. This quote reflects McCain’s belief that science and religion can coexist and complement each other. He appreciates the beauty and majesty of nature, and understands that it could be the creation of a higher power. He sees no conflict between his faith and his understanding of the natural world through science.

It’s worth noting that McCain had a deep connection to nature and the outdoors, he loved hiking, and he had a strong sense of wonder and awe when he was in nature. This quote shows that McCain was able to reconcile his religious beliefs with his understanding of scientific facts, and that he found inspiration and spiritual fulfillment in the natural world.

5. Take only memories, leave nothing but footprints.

Chief Seattle

This quote is attributed to Chief Seattle, a leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes, who lived in the Pacific Northwest region of North America in the mid-19th century. He is known for his wisdom and his speeches that urged for respect for the land and its inhabitants.

In this quote, Chief Seattle emphasizes the importance of being a responsible and respectful visitor to the natural world. He advises people to take only memories, and to leave nothing but footprints, when they visit a natural area. This means that people should not take anything from the natural world, such as plants, rocks, or other natural resources, but instead, they should take only photographs, videos, and memories, as a way to remember their visit.

This quote also encourages people to minimize their impact on the environment by leaving no trace of their visit. This means that people should not leave any garbage, damage any natural features, or disturb the wildlife. By following these principles, people can help to preserve the natural world for future generations to enjoy.

The quote reflects Chief Seattle’s understanding of the importance of balance and preservation in nature, and his belief that people should be stewards of the land, rather than exploiting it for their own benefit. The quote is also now a popular phrase and commonly used in the context of environmentalism and nature conservation.

Those are my favorite best hiking quotes. As expected most of the quotes are from writers. If you have any to add to the list just let me know in the comments below and I will do some research and add a summary of them here.