As we stumble into 2026, bleary-eyed and clutching our obligatory green smoothies, it’s time once again for that annual ritual: setting resolutions we’ll abandon by February. But this year, I’m suggesting something different for our readers—something that involves less kale and more trail mix. It’s time to ‘Take a Hike.’

Now, before you get offended, hear me out. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is celebrating its 100th anniversary by doing something radical: they’re trying to save the phrase “Take a Hike” from its reputation as the polite person’s version of “get lost.” With help from comedian and hiking enthusiast Kevin Nealon—yes, that Kevin Nealon from Saturday Night Live—they’ve launched a campaign to reclaim these three words as something positive. Revolutionary, right?

The ATC has even started a petition asking dictionary giants like Merriam-Webster and the Oxford English Dictionary to add a modern definition: “A friendly invitation to reset, recharge, and reconnect with the outdoors.” Because apparently, we need official permission from dictionary editors before we can stop using hiking as an insult. But honestly, if it gets more people on the trails, I’m all for it.

Here’s why I think our Lake Norman readers should seriously consider taking a hike this year—the good kind, not the “please leave my property” kind.

Reason One: We’re Practically Neighbors with the Trail

For those of us in the Lake Norman area, the Appalachian Trail isn’t some distant fantasy requiring a cross-country road trip. We’re within driving distance of one of the most iconic hiking trails in the world. The AT stretches over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, and portions of it are closer than your in-laws’ house—though considerably more enjoyable to visit. By supporting our national and state parks and the Appalachian Trail, we’re preserving something spectacular for future generations. Everyone wins!

Reason Two: Nature Isn’t Just for Instagram

Yes, we all know that person who hikes solely for the summit selfie. But connecting with nature offers benefits that transcend social media likes. Studies show that spending time outdoors reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental wellness. It turns out that staring at trees is significantly better for your mental health than staring at spreadsheets. Who knew? Nature has this annoying habit of putting our problems in perspective—it’s hard to stress about your email inbox when you’re watching a hawk soar overhead or listening to a creek babble away like it has nowhere to be and nothing to prove.

Reason Three: Reset, Recharge, Reality Check

Let’s face it: modern life is exhausting. We’re constantly plugged in, tuned on, and burned out. A hike offers something increasingly rare—a legitimate excuse to disconnect. There’s something deeply satisfying about telling people, “Sorry, can’t make that Zoom call, I’ll be on a mountain with questionable cell service.” Hiking forces us to slow down, breathe deeply, and remember that we’re mammals who evolved to walk on dirt, not scroll through TikTok at 2 AM.

So, this year, when someone suggests you “take a hike,” smile and say, “Don’t mind if I do!” Who knows? You might just start a trend. And unlike that gym membership gathering dust, the trails will still be there in March, judgment-free and always open.

Hope to see you on the trails!