Simplicity. When it comes to outdoor sports, the simplest form is often the purest form. And what could be more simple and pure than taking a walk in the woods. Hiking makes The Outdoor Sports List most definitely, and deserves honorable mention for being the only one on the list that was done by Neanderthal man.

The proverbial "walk in the woods" has to be considered the original form of entertainment, way before TV. Yes, believe it or not, before the days of high definition and surround sound, people actually went out of their square structures and let the air, earth, water and fire be their center of amusement.

I have to say, the boob tube is not good enough for me, folks. Watching people climb Mt. Everest or tow surfing at Jaws is great, but to really feel it, I need to be a part of the action, not just a comfortable bystander on the Lazy Boy recliner.

What makes this original mode such an attractive proposition on an ordinary day? You don't need much preparation, or equipment. A day pack, some snacks, a water bottle, proper clothing layers. And the boots! This is where some money can get dropped, but this one time purchase can last you a very, very long time and provide you with memories that are priceless.

By categorizing hikes you can figure out the proper footwear to utilize. Day hikes - depending on the terrain, ordinary cross trainers, running shoes or other athletic shoes can easily pass. But if the chosen day hike is on a rough trail you need to step up with a pair of "Hiker Lites", what a refer to the plastic-based, cheaper models of hiking boot that compete with real leather boots in terms of affordability. Backpacking for several days and longer wilderness treks require a serious pair of boots. The Merrell 3/4 tops http://www.rei.com/shop/Footwear.htm will last for a day, but the reality is that this type of footwear does not suit carrying heavy packs that usually accompany overnight trips.

REI seems to be a decent company considering all the facts. They give cash back to their customers on purchases without an asterisk. And for those of us who are size challenged (ever try to find a pair of 15 hiking boots?) the website even has choices that work. You really have to throw down some jack to get a pair of superb boots that can get you to the truly wild places.

Some of my most incredible hikes have been in foreign lands such as the Inca Trail in Machu Pichu and the trails into the jungle from Palenque. As far as backpacking here in California, I just don't think it's possible to find more selection and opportunity in any other state of the Union. King's Canyon was incredible, one of my few bear sightings. Desolation Wilderness near Lake Tahoe is an alpine lake heaven. Big Sur coastal ranges offer dirt paths that lead to steaming hot springs to heal the aching joints. An excellent way to find places to go is http://www.wilderness.net/index.cfm?fuse=NWPS&sec=map.

Living in Santa Barbara has allowed me to explore many wonders of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Thanks in large part to Raymond Ford's indispensable Santa Barbara Day Hikes published in 2000. I suggest purchasing a guide such as this created by an avid hiker who has experience in your area. You can pick up a copy through giant Amazon or at your local store.

If you are interested in reading an incredible account of the 1964 Coyote fire in Santa Barbara check out this link, I was immersed! Wildfires are like tidal waves - total chaos, completely uncontrollable power!

ER Harris