Environmental
awareness and policy

Deepening Nature Connectedness through Mindful Hiking – Towards a Change in Pro-Environmental Attitudes

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Our modern lives have taken us too far from nature. Modern humans have become disconnected from the natural world and, consequently, from themselves. Most people now spend up to 90% of their lives indoors. Climate change and the loss of biodiversity leave many feeling disheartened. While there is a strong desire for change, taking responsibility can seem like an overwhelming challenge.

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Soulhike believes that meaningful change—and greater responsibility for climate action—will not arise from fear or obligation, but from developing a deeper care for the world around us. Studies show that spending time in nature increases our sense of care for it. The growing disconnection from nature in developed countries has contributed to a reduced sense of responsibility for protecting the environment.

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Hiking offers an opportunity to reconnect deeply with the natural world. It is not only one of the most carbon-neutral travel options; the slowness and simplicity of a hiking holiday also foster a deeper connection with ourselves and our surroundings. The long-term effects of expanding our sense of connectedness through hiking should not be underestimated.

A study on the loss of nature connectedness was published last year in The Guardian. Research further indicates that pathways to re-establishing a connection with nature must be grounded in compassionate and engaging approaches. A 2018 study found a direct correlation between participants’ levels of nature connectedness and their pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors. It also showed that a walk in nature alone does not necessarily enhance nature connectedness. Active engagement with nature is required to strengthen this connection.

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Therefore, changes in behavior and attitude arise primarily through transforming how we engage with nature. Soulhike’s environmental policy is deeply aligned with this understanding and with our mission: to engage hikers more deeply with the natural world and, in doing so, foster more sustainable living habits.

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Hiking as Sustainable Travel

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Hiking is a sustainable form of travel because it relies on low-impact, zero-emission human power rather than fossil-fuel-intensive transportation. It promotes environmental conservation, supports local economies through eco-tourism, and encourages a “leave no trace” ethic that protects natural ecosystems while providing a meaningful and educational connection to nature.

Furthermore, Soulhike uses cabins powered by renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Our food supply is carefully selected, with a strong preference for vegetarian or vegan alternatives over unsustainably produced meat. Whenever possible, we also source food locally in order to support the local economy.

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Soulhike has earned the Sustainable Travel Logo from Responsible Travels.