What does hillwalking mean?
Hillwalking is the activity of walking through hilly or mountainous countryside, usually for exercise, enjoyment, or sightseeing. It commonly involves following trails and upland footpaths, and it can range from an easy afternoon walk to a strenuous journey over rough terrain. The term is especially common in British English, while hiking is often used more broadly in North American English. Hillwalking is related to walking rather than technical mountaineering, although the routes may require suitable clothing, navigation skills, and reasonable fitness. For many people, it combines the accessibility of a walk with the physical challenge and expansive views associated with hills and mountains, making it both a practical outdoor pursuit and a popular form of travel.
nounThe activity of walking in hills or mountainous country, typically as a recreational or sightseeing activity. It may involve walking along footpaths, trails, and upland terrain.
- The activity of walking in hills or mountainous country, especially for pleasure or exercise.
- A recreational journey or outing involving walking through hilly terrain.
"They spent the weekend hillwalking in the Lake District."
"Hillwalking is a popular way to explore the Scottish Highlands."
"The guide led the group on a strenuous hillwalking expedition."
Hillwalking is where a simple walk becomes an expedition: the scenery is higher, the paths steeper, and the views wider.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hillwalking come from?
Hillwalking is formed by combining hill and walking, both English words with Old English roots. Hill derives from Old English hyll, meaning a mound or elevated landform, while walking comes from Old English wealcan, meaning to move on foot. The compound developed as a name for the activity of walking in hilly country and is now widely used in British English and beyond.
Related word forms
How hillwalking is actually used
Common in British English and also used in North American English, though hiking may be more familiar there. It usually describes a recreational activity rather than technical climbing.
Easily confused with hillwalking
Hillwalking specifically emphasizes walking in hilly or mountainous terrain, whereas hiking is a broader term for walking on trails, in parks, or in the countryside.