Which verb describes walking in an easy, leisurely manner?

The verb that describes walking in an easy, leisurely manner is "saunter." This term evokes a sense of relaxed movement, suggesting a carefree and unhurried approach to walking that allows one to enjoy the surroundings. When someone saunters, they typically do not have a destination in mind or are not in a rush, embodying a tranquil and leisurely pace.

The other words convey different meanings. "Pace" refers to the speed of walking, which can vary greatly and does not inherently imply leisure. "Rush" and "hasten" both indicate a sense of urgency and quickness, completely opposite to a leisurely manner. Thus, "saunter" is the most appropriate term for describing a carefree, easy-going walk.