Hiking Trekking & Trail Running: A New Conceptual Framework of Trail-based Recreation in the Contemporary Thai Context
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Abstract
Amid the dynamics of contemporary society characterized by accelerating haste and a growing disconnection from nature, many people increasingly seek alternative spaces for the restoration of well-being. Nature-based outdoor recreation on natural trails such as hiking, trekking, and trail running plays a crucial role as an instrument for meaning-making, life transitions, and the expression of new identities. This article aims to analyze the core philosophy, motivations, and distinctive identities of these three recreational activities while introducing the “Thai Nature Recreation Triangle” as a novel theoretical framework for systematically synthesizing values of well-being and motivation. The study employs document synthesis, conceptual analysis, and comparative socio-cultural review. The findings reveal that hiking emphasizes restoration and reconnection with nature; trekking reflects a ritualized journey leading to transformative life transitions; while trail running signifies the challenge of personal competence and the pursuit of meaning through performance. Applying the proposed framework highlights an asymmetry in the Thai recreation landscape, which tends to overemphasize performance while diminishing inner and spiritual experiences. This underscores the necessity for developing diverse and inclusive recreation policies and programs that integrate cultural knowledge, technology, and community participation to genuinely enhance holistic well-being and foster sustainable development in the Thai context.
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