Nature sports in general and hiking in particular have become, in our urban and
post-industrial societies, a growing phenomenon practiced by millions of citizens.
The motivations and interests of this large group are varied, but they have a common
element: to disconnect from stressful modern life and reconnect with nature.
National parks and other protected areas are the preferred destinations, but they
present an challenging contrast for land management: conservation versus tourist use. While
once considered a romantic practice of escape and discovery, hiking is now a consumer
product and a tourist experience. It promises experiences of disconnection, quiet and
health; yet, natural spaces are increasingly scarce and more often than not they are
crowded by other recreationalists.
This book presents a multidisciplinary perspective on the latest trends and developments
in hiking. In particular, the authors work from a European perspective with
various outdoor recreation models represented and different conservation initiatives
explored in the contexts of Spain, Norway, Poland, Germany and Lebanon. Collectively,
the authors attend to hiking as a social phenomenon and economic opportunity,
which has the potential to sustainably revitalize rural destinations, if managed
properly.
Pablo Vidal-González, Universidad Católica de Valencia, Spain
