I went on a day hike yesterday in North Carolina
Fun!  I have always wanted to take up hiking, but don't know much about it/
It's called hiking in the US and Canada, meaning a longer, vigorous walk, mostly on trails and footpaths.
Do you need special shoes to participate in hiking?
I prefer to wear hiking shoes, but everyone is different.  My favorite trails are on the Appalachian Trail.  Most people call it the A.T.
That sounds difficult.  How long does a typical hike last and what happens if you get lost?
The Appalachian Trail is 2,200 miles, so my hikes there are in and back hikes.  It's best to carry water, snacks, and a map with you even on a short hike
That is smart advice.  Are there varying levels of difficulty ratings for trails?