The Surprising Joy of a Crowded Hiking Trail

Summary

Bloomberg News writer Felix Salmon discusses the joy of hiking crowded trails. He shares his experience on the Tongariro Crossing in New Zealand and argues that popularity can enhance a hike. He dismisses the idea that fewer people make for a better hiking experience.

• Felix Salmon describes his positive experience hiking the Tongariro Crossing with hundreds of other hikers.
• He compares the crowded trail to a shared communal experience rather than a solitary one.
• He cites Breakneck Ridge as another example of a popular hike that attracts happy visitors.
• Salmon argues that artificially limiting hiker numbers would reduce joy.
• The piece challenges the common outdoor preference for solitude.
• No financial or investment-related content is discussed.