To give you some sense of how "local" 60 miles can be in the US, I live a more urban life style than most people in the US (although likely less than most people on this board), but I frequently drive 60 miles simply to have dinner with friends or family. We never considered that a hike, it's just a quick trip in the car.
Our 2005 Honda CRV is approaching 120,000 miles, and both myself and my fiancée telecommute.