There is an interesting story and link over at Adventures in the Outdoors on a recent study that showed there could be up to a 50% increase in creative and critical thinking skills after you get outside and take a hike.

I think all of us hikers know that, but it is kind of cool to have that sort of information nailed down in a scientific way.

I for one always enjoy taking a hike when I have been feeling a bit frazzled.  It really clears my mind and lets me get back to whatever I was doing before the hike with a new set of eyes and a clear mind to work from.