Pondering my expertises, I was surprised to remember how few things I am an expert in, but I can hike (a fairly simple task), so here we go. Hiking is like walking (see: philip's entry) but with a twist- there is more terrain and interesting outdoor obstacles. Before anything else, prepare for your hike extensively. Know your route, have maps, research weather, times, detours, elevations changes, think about wildlife, remember snacks, and make emergency plans. Also tell someone where you are going so your parents can find your when you're taken by backwoods cannibals.
One quote that stuck in my mind regarding hiking and the outdoors is the primary rule of hiking. "Rule #1 of the trail- Always look hot." (If the animals aren't swooning for you, you are a piece of trash). In other words, don't look like an unorganized schmo.
Next step, take the correct steps. Sometimes taking shorter steps at a slower, more controlled pace can make for fewer stops and more sustainable, easy hiking. Also when you hike up hill, remember to extend your knees and essentially lock them- it takes off 30% of the stress on your thighs (disclaimer: may not be 30 but it does work.)
Lastly, have a good time out there folks, breathe that fresh air, congratulate yourself after a tough hill, play weird games while walking for hours, and take short regular breaks. There's such a sense of accomplishment when you complete a hike, and hiking really isn't that hard, so it's a win-win.
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