Summary of the Key Points
Hiking was originally a way for city dwellers to escape stress and get closer to nature, but now it has become a new form of social competition—ranging from equipment and routes to photography and guides, creating an invisible hierarchy of disdain. People talk about “returning to nature,” yet their actions effectively rank others based on various standards. Behind this are the forces of consumerism, social media platforms, and vanity, which overshadow the fundamental values of safety and self-awareness in the outdoors.
Detailed Analysis
1. The Hierarchy of Equipment Disdain: Luxury Gear as a Status Symbol
Modern hiking gear is no longer just a tool; it has become a symbol of social status. Brands like Salomon have seen significant revenue growth, with their profits increasing by 30% in 2025, particularly in the Greater China region (46%). People who own expensive gear act like loyal brand followers, treasuring their costly jackets that they wear infrequently and getting upset at any criticism. However, the dangers of the mountains don’t depend on the price of the gear; heavy rain, rocky slopes, and hypothermia won’t be more forgiving just because you have top-tier equipment. While good gear can make your experience more comfortable, it doesn’t replace practical outdoor skills. Don’t mistake luxury for expertise.
2. The Hierarchy of Routes: Is More Painier Better? A Cult of Suffering
There’s a strange standard in the hiking community: urban park trails aren’t considered proper hiking, suburban light hikes are seen as for beginners, and popular routes are deemed less meaningful if they don’t look good for photos. Only high-altitude, long-distance treks with no access to clean water or communication are considered “true” hiking. This is a form of “cult of suffering,” equating hardship with prestige. Beginners are pressured to upgrade quickly—wanting to venture onto famous mountain ridges shortly after their first park hike or to high altitudes right after a short trail. Social media platforms exacerbate this by only showcasing stunning views, ignoring the dangers of rough terrain and harsh conditions, leading people to forget that hiking is meant for relaxation, not for suffering.
3. Photography vs. Hiking: The Quest for Perfect Photos Comes at a Cost
Photographers are often criticized not for taking photos themselves, but for occupying public spaces or risking their lives for a good shot. In 2024, a Chinese hiker died while trying to capture a view of Mount Ijen in Indonesia; in 2025, another hiker in Sichuan fell off a mountain while taking photos on Mount Namcha Barwa. Studies show that between 2008 and 2021, 379 people worldwide died from selfie-related accidents. While it’s understandable to want impressive photos, putting yourself at risk for a good shot is not about bravery but about treating danger as a form of aesthetics. However, hardcore hikers who disdain photographers often ignore weather warnings and rush into dangerous routes, using their passion to cover up poor judgment.
4. The Idolization of Guides: From Expertise to Image
In the past, guides were chosen based on their skills (which routes they had covered, how well they managed the group, etc.). Now, the focus is more on their appearance and ability to create visually appealing content (e.g., taking great photos of the mountains). The price of guided hikes can soar—a basic mountain hike that used to cost 2000 yuan now costs 20,000 yuan. A good guide’s value lies in their ability to make safe decisions, such as canceling a climb if the weather is unfavorable or providing first aid when needed. These professional skills are often overlooked due to the focus on visuals, turning hiking into a celebrity-styled experience where safety takes a backseat.
5. The Essence of the Hierarchy: Escaping from Conformity, Yet Creating New Hierarchies
Hiking was meant to escape the hierarchical structures of offices (positions, income, ranks), but now it has created new ones based on gear, routes, and guides. People with expensive gear view those with simpler equipment as inferior; those who choose less challenging routes think others are weak; photographers criticize those whose photos aren’t impressive enough. This is fueled by consumerism (brands selling status), social media platforms (promoting extreme content), and vanity (the desire to appear more advanced). The original purpose of hiking was to connect with nature and understand one’s own limits. Urban parks and high altitudes are not sources of shame; they should not be used as tools for creating new social hierarchies.
In conclusion, the mountains won’t treat you better just because you have expensive gear or take stunning photos. The true meaning of hiking is to connect with nature in a meaningful way. Let’s avoid competition and prevent the spirit of “hiking culture” from turning into a competitive atmosphere that erodes the essence of the activity itself.