I have a pair of trail running shoes, are they ok to use for hiking or should I get real hiking boots? Any information would be helpful. I do plan to wear proper socks (polypropoline under wool) regaurdless of the shoe.

Donna, as a general statement, I would humbly say "No".

It is my opinion that strenuous hiking (is there any other way) puts a lot of strain on the ligaments and that without the ankle support of boots, a beginner who is developing strength runs the risk of sprain/strain.

When buying that first pair of boots, it would be well worth it to get them properly fitted at REI or EMS (no financial interest) by someone who knows what they are doing, you should ask the salesperson how long they have been doing it, and some of these stores send their boot people to classes and all that kind of stuff. Plan on spending lots of time at the store walking around in them--you cannot rush this process.

Hope this helps.