But during my hike I had plenty of time and inclination to ponder the elusive advantages as well. You are immersed in a wild expanse saturated with birds. Of course you still see fewer birds without your trusty binoculars. But the ones that are close enough for a really good look through binoculars are also close enough for observation and appreciation with the naked eye. Hiking without binoculars is an excellent way to sharpen your song identification skills as well.
Unfamiliar songs become familiar, and songs that usually blend into discord finally become distinct.
With your ears open and attuned, the green trail becomes a symphony of information and insight. On my hike I found myself finally distinguishing between the songs of the Hermit and Swainson's Thrush and tracing the change in thrush species as I changed elevations. Veeries were heard at low and moderate elevations in the presence of surface water. Once I became acquainted with this pattern, it proved a reliable estimator of my elevation for the rest of the trip. Another advantage to backpacking is that no matter how determined you are, you eventually take a much deserved break.