[amateurpolymath]

I think many people who are physically unable to take a hike (disabled, elderly, ill, etc.) would appreciate a VR system that can closely mimic a real hike.

Also, if a VR system can perform well as a hiking simulator it would be able to realistically simulate things that don't exist, places that are too difficult/expensive for an average person to visit, or experiences that are too dangerous to attempt in reality.

EDIT: For example, I'd love to visit the moon or Mars but it's highly unlikely I'll ever be able to physically go there. A highly immersive VR simulation would be very appealing to me!

[sandworm101]

But if they are disabled, then they in fact want the VR system not to emulate a hike. They cannot walk and so do not want a VR system that makes them walk. The OP was discussing a VR scheme that would mimic body movements akin to the physicality of actually hiking (ie VR on a treadmill).