Sightseeing in a city and hiking might seem like two separate activities, but they can, in fact, be combined to create a memorable city break.

Hiking often evokes thoughts of trekking up mountainous paths, staring out at luscious green vistas, while sightseeing conjures up images of walking down bustling concrete streets. However, there’s a growing trend for those who don’t want to travel miles for a good hike or who want to see a city in all its glory – urban hiking.

Urban hiking turns the sidewalks of a city into exhilarating trails, offering people the chance to experience a city in a new and exciting way – and all while enjoying some exercise, too!

Here are some top tips on how to enjoy urban hiking when you’re sightseeing:

Kit Yourself Out with the Right Gear

Compared to trekking along dirt paths, pounding the pavement can take its toll on your feet, so you’ll need the right shoes and socks. Opt for cushioned and sturdy shoes with robust socks that are designed for running/walking and won’t give you blisters. And if you’re planning on heading out for long periods of time, pack a spare pair of socks to change into. After a while, sweat and dirt can create more friction as you walk which is where you’ll get blisters from.

You’ll also need to make sure you’re protected against all weathers by packing some rain gear.

Pack Your Bag Smartly

Even though it’ll be easier to buy water and snacks as you’re walking around the city, it’s a good idea to take some provisions with you too. You might also want to pack a paper map, even if you’re relying on the GPS feature of your smartphone. This allows for any areas where you might not get any service or if your battery’s gone flat by the end of the day. You don’t need to pack your compass, though, because urban areas are a lot easier to navigate and often feature plenty of signposts to help you get around.

Find Places to Take Cover

Not all urban hikes mean an overnight stay, but if you are planning a long route that spans over a couple of days, it’s important to plan where you’re going to recuperate and rest. Find city hotels like Marriott Princeton Forrestal or jot down the addresses of friends and family where you can stay for the night. Always take some time to consider where you’re stopping off at night so you’re not left stranded miles away at the end of the day.

Don’t Walk the Same Streets Twice

There is a rule when you’re urban hiking – you can’t walk or backtrack along the same street twice. You should be exploring new ground at all times, just like you would if you were out and about in the countryside. This may mean you’re taking roundabout loops but that’s the idea because you’re always seeing something new.

As you can see, urban hiking can be just as exhilarating, if not more so, than heading out into the open countryside. With your route all planned out and new discoveries around every corner, this is the perfect way to explore cities and create memorable adventures.