Hiking is one of our greatest passions, and we love that it is a hobby for people of all ages and experience levels. There’s nothing better than the feeling of hitting the trailhead of a hike. Well, maybe reaching the peak and looking back at what you just climbed up is better, but hey, it’s all about the journey.

We’re sharing our personal hiking “must-pack” list (+ some of our favorite tried-and-true brands) with you so you’re always prepared and confident on your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re new to hiking or you’ve logged many miles in your hiking boots, we hope this list is a handy reminder of what you need to bring with you. 

You can download a PDF version of our hiking packing list so you can access it offline and never leave home unprepared for your next adventure!

We also create hiking articles to make sure you are prepared for the trail and give you pointers to watch out for. From hot springs to mountain summits, our hope is to provide the best hiking guides available so you can go confidently into nature.

Here are some of our most recommended hiking guides:

Beginner Hiking Tips: Essential Info & Preparedness

What is hiking? How do I prepare for my first hike? This beginner hiking guide touches on everything you should know before hiking the great outdoors, including tips on preparation, basic trail etiquette, and finding the right gear. [...]

What to Wear Hiking

Choosing what to wear hiking can make all the difference when it comes to being prepared for a great time on the trail. We're covering the basics from the best fabrics for hiking, how to layer, what to pack and most importantly, what not to wear on the trail. [...]

25 Best Hiking Snacks: Healthy & Delicious Trekking Food

Maybe because we always have food on the brain, hiking snacks are essential to our packing list. Here's a list of our favorite bites to bring on the trail. [...]

All Hiking Articles

Trail of Ten Falls: Silver Falls State Park Hiking Guide

Oregon’s impressive Trail of Ten Falls is a highlight of Silver Falls State Park, taking hikers past a whopping 10 waterfalls. We put this detailed trail guide together to help you plan the best route and get the most out of your hike! [...]

Hanging Lake Colorado Trail Guide

Colorado has countless incredible hikes, but few top the one-two punch of Hanging Lake. The scenery is spectacular and feels remote, yet it’s easily accessible. Although short, tackling Hanging Lake trail requires some planning, so we put together this detailed trail guide. [...]

A Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking

In this guide we'll go over the basics of backpacking for beginners, including how to get started, what to pack, and of course answering the frequently asked question: What is backpacking? [...]

The Narrows Hike: Trail Guide for Zion National Park

Utah’s Zion National Park has countless jaw-dropping sights and incredible hikes, but there’s nothing quite like The Narrows hike. To help you plan your adventure, we outlined everything you need to know about hiking Zion Narrows. [...]

21 Fun Vancouver Hikes to Get You Outdoors

Often seen as a hiker’s paradise, there are so many hikes near Vancouver, it’s hard to know where to start. With the help of a local hiking enthusiast, we’ve put together a list of the top Vancouver hikes along with all the details to help you hit the trails. [...]

Howe Sound Crest Trail: Vancouver Trail Guide

The epic Howe Sound Crest Trail in Canada offers an authentic backcountry experience while also being easily accessible from Vancouver. This trail guide covers everything you need to know, from planning and preparation to what to expect on the hike. [...]

20 Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

From hikes that cross driftwood-strewn beaches to traversing mossy rainforest trails, we've rounded up the best hikes Olympic National Park for all levels and abilities. Plus we've included some important information you'll want to know before you hit the trails. [...]

10 Smith Rock Hikes for Your Oregon State Park Visit

While best known as a world-class climbing destination, Smith Rock hikes are bucket list-worthy, with jaw-dropping scenery and trails spanning all lengths and difficulty levels. This guide details the best Smith Rock State Park hikes, plus other essential details! [...]

Misery Ridge Trail Guide for Smith Rock State Park

With expansive views across central Oregon and a jaw-dropping look over the Crooked River, Misery Ridge Trail showcases the best of Smith Rock State Park. We put together this detailed trail guide to help plan your hike. [...]

Hurricane Ridge: Hiking and Views in Olympic National Park

With incredible mountain views, gorgeous hiking trails, tons of wildlife, and one of the only official ski areas in a national park, Hurricane Ridge stands out as a highlight of Olympic National Park. This guide covers tips, some of the best hikes, where to stay, and more. [...]

Marymere Falls Trail Guide for Olympic National Park

Near sparkling Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, the Marymere Falls Trail packs a tremendous punch in under two miles. This guide breaks down all the details and explains why Marymere Falls should be on your hiking bucket list! [...]

Proxy Falls Oregon Trail Guide

Proxy Falls is arguably one of Oregon’s most unique and impressive waterfalls — and amazingly, it requires less than a 2-mile hike. This guide covers everything you need to know about hiking to Proxy Falls Oregon, plus what exactly makes it so special! [...]

Cascade Canyon Trail Guide for Grand Teton National Park

When it comes to effort-to-reward ratio, few backcountry hikes in Grand Teton National Park top Cascade Canyon Trail. With a ferry ride, glacial valley, a waterfall, and wildlife galore, this hike is truly unforgettable! We put this trail guide together to help you plan your outing. [...]

Thru Hiking: What is It? + Tips for Beginners

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is thru hiking?” you’ll want to keep reading! From covering the basics like water purifying and navigation to highlighting some of the best thru hikes in the US, this guide details everything you need to know before you hit the trail.  Have you ever heard [...]

Multnomah Falls Hike: Guide to Hiking Oregon’s Most Popular Waterfall

The Multnomah Falls hike is one of Oregon's most popular adventures, and for good reason! To help you experience this iconic waterfall for yourself, we put together this detailed guide.  [...]

Backpacking Meals: Guide to Meal Planning on the Trail

All serious hiking enthusiasts know the struggle of finding the best food to bring on the trail. That’s why we created this guide with tips and gear to help prep and pack the best backpacking meals for your next adventure.  [...]

25 Hiking Lunch Ideas to Keep You Fed on the Trail

Stuck on what food to bring hiking, besides old stand-bys like jerky and nuts? We got you covered with this list of simple, unique hiking lunch ideas. Most of which require no cooking and minimal prep! [...]

Cracker Lake Trail Guide for Glacier National Park

An under-visited treasure in Glacier National Park, Cracker Lake’s milky, bright blue glacial waters mesmerize at first sight. Between the epic trail and excellent lakeside campsites, Cracker Lake is worth a full day! This guide details everything you need to know about the hike. [...]

Colchuck Lake Trail Hiking Guide

Central Washington’s Colchuck Lake hike rewards trail blazers with a jaw-dropping turquoise lake nestled under some of the most dramatic peaks in the PNW. A challenging trail, hiking Colchuck Lake takes some advance planning, so we put together this guide with everything you need to know! [...]

25 Best Hikes Near Denver

From red rock canyons and snow-capped summits to sparkling alpine lakes and waterfalls, there are tons of hikes near Denver to explore. In this article we’ve rounded up the best day hikes within a 2-hour drive of the Mile High City. [...]

25 Best Colorado Hiking Trails

With options for all abilities, ages, and seasons, the best Colorado hiking trails show off the state’s stunning diversity. In this article, we compiled the best hikes in Colorado to inspire you to hit the trails. [...]

25 Best Hikes in Utah

Utah is an incredible hiking destination with some of the most unique landscapes in the world. From rugged slot canyons and snow-capped mountain peaks to sparkling lakes and five national parks, the best hikes in Utah have something for everyone. [...]

17 Best Hikes in Glacier National Park, Montana

With over 700 miles of trails, we’ve rounded up the best hikes in Glacier National Park to help you plan your trip, and we’ve added insider tips on things to know before visiting and what to expect from each hike. [...]

Ultimate Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Both Bryce Canyon and Zion are filled with some of the world's most renowned hiking trails, viewpoints, and geology in the American Southwest. In this guide, we highlight all the best stops on an epic Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park itinerary. [...]

Icicle Ridge Trail Guide

Just minutes from Leavenworth, Washington, the Icicle Ridge trail is an exciting half-day adventure offering wonderful views and a serious workout. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make the most of this memorable hike. [...]

Mount Storm King Trail Guide for Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park’s Mount Storm King hike is fairly short but grueling, and certainly memorable. To help you plan and prepare for the challenging trek, we’ve put together this detailed Mount Storm King trail guide.  [...]

Best Microspikes for Hiking

Microspikes are essential for any alpine or winter hikers, but there are so many different options that choosing the right set can be challenging. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the best microspikes for hiking, plus share our favorites. [...]

15 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park is a renowned climbing and astronomy destination, but it’s also home to some fantastic hiking trails. With features including slot canyons, long-abandoned mines, and boulders you can scramble, the best hikes in Joshua Tree are unique and memorable. [...]

15 Best Hikes in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is world renowned for its geysers and abundant wildlife. Enormous in size, there’s a ton to take in at America’s first national park. To help you plan your visit, we’ve rounded up the best hikes in Yellowstone! [...]

Tom Dick and Harry Mountain: Hiking Trail Guide

Tom Dick and Harry Mountain packs a tremendous punch: astounding views of Mount Hood, a loop around pristine Mirror Lake, and a not-too-challenging trek to get there. This guide goes over everything you need to know about hiking this stunning trail. [...]

The Wonderland Trail: Mount Rainier Hiking Guide

The hike of a lifetime, the 96-mile Wonderland Trail weaves through the best of Mount Rainier’s spectacular scenery. There are tons of logistics to consider before attempting this hike, including wilderness permits, campsites, routes, and supplies. This detailed guide will help you plan it all out! [...]

Top 50 Best Hikes in Washington State

When hiking in Washington State, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, we’ve got the perfect hike listed here just for you. From the most epic views to the most unique hikes, this article is everything you’ll ever need to complete your Washington hikes [...]

Lake Valhalla Hiking Guide

Washington’s Lake Valhalla is a vibrant blue lake nestled underneath Lichtenberg Mountain in the Wenatchee National Forest. In this guide to the glittering alpine lake, we dish out everything you need to know about planning the perfect day hike to Lake Valhalla. [...]

Rattlesnake Ledge Trail Guide

Washington’s Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most beautiful and most accessible day hikes within an hour of Seattle. We put together this detailed guide to Rattlesnake Ledge so you know exactly what to expect when you hit the trail. [...]

15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

The majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife of Colorado’s most famous national park draw millions of visitors each year. We’ve rounded up the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park to help you plan your next adventure! [...]

The 7 principles of Leave No Trace (& why you should care!)

The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace are important rules everyone should follow while out and enjoying Mother Nature. Find out what exactly these principles are, why they’re important, and how to actually implement them! [...]

4 Day Grand Teton to Yellowstone Itinerary

We think the best way to discover the heartland of the national park system is by road trip. In this article, we’ve outlined the perfect 4 day Grand Teton to Yellowstone itinerary that brings you to all the best sites in each park.  [...]

20 Exciting Day Hikes Near Seattle

With quick and easy access to lots of lush, open green spaces, rugged mountain trails, waterfalls, and urban hikes alike, Seattle is the epitome of a hiker’s paradise. We rounded up the best hikes near Seattle to help you narrow down all the choices. [...]

South Sister Hike: A Trail Guide

The tallest of the iconic Three Sisters peaks near Bend, South Sister is one of the most coveted outdoor pursuits in all of Oregon. It’s a challenging, unique trail that requires advanced planning. We put together this South Sister hike guide so you’ll know exactly what to expect. [...]

15 Best Hikes at Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park boasts incredible red rock spires and hoodoos, panoramic vistas, and unforgettable hiking. Although small compared to other parks, it can be difficult deciding which trails to explore, so we’ve narrowed down the best hikes at Bryce Canyon. [...]

15 Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Tackling some of the best hikes in Canyonlands National Park is our top tip for immersing yourself in the otherworldly beauty of this Utah wonder. In this guide, we’re sharing tips on exploring the park’s five districts and epic overlooks to help you plan your visit. [...]

15 Best Hikes in Arches National Park, Utah

Highlighting the many stunning natural arches scattered throughout the park, some of the best hikes in Arches National Park are also among the shortest and easiest! We’re sharing our favorites, with plenty of trails that will satisfy every interest and experience level.  [...]

15 Best Hikes in Zion National Park, Utah

It wouldn’t be a trip to southern Utah if you didn’t check out some of the best hikes in Zion! We put together this list of our top 15 Zion hikes, plus information on how to maximize your trip to this stunning and wildly popular national park.  [...]

17 Best Hikes in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

We believe Capitol Reef National Park is the most underrated park in Utah. Use this guide to the best hikes in Capitol Reef to help you fill your itinerary with the most scenic trails. [...]

Hiking the Enchantments: A Trail Guide

Hiking the Enchantments is one of the most memorable PNW experiences. The challenging 20-mile trail requires advanced planning, so we’ve broken it down in a comprehensive hiking guide. [...]

15 Epic Hikes in Banff National Park, Canada

Hiking in Banff National Park is one of the best ways to experience the park’s stunning scenery and wildlife. With hundreds of trails to choose from, it can be intimidating just trying to decide on one — which is exactly why we put together this list of the best hikes [...]

15 Must-Do Hikes in Twin Falls, Idaho

Nestled in southern Idaho, Twin Falls is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From easy family-friendly options to challenging trails with unique features, here are the must-do hikes in Twin Falls, Idaho. [...]

21 Fun Oregon Coast Hikes for Nature Lovers

While Oregon as a whole has some of the best hiking in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon coast hikes in particular are simply stunning. With dramatic cliffs where the Pacific ocean meets the rocky coastline, old-growth forests, towering rock formations, sand dunes, and so much more, here are our favorite Oregon [...]

Hiking in Idaho: 15 Best Trails for Every Level

A highly underrated corner of the American West, Idaho is filled to the brim with rugged mountain ranges, sparkling alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and unusual geological formations. In this article, we’ve rounded up our top picks of the best trails for hiking in Idaho. [...]

10 Cool Utah Slot Canyons You Can Hike Through

With more than 1,000 hidden throughout the state, there’s no shortage of slot canyons to explore in Utah! From fairly open and easily accessible trails to some so narrow they require rappelling gear, here is our round up of the coolest Utah slot canyons.  [...]

17 Bucket List Worthy Mount Hood Hikes

With vast pine forests, vibrant alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls, hiking in Mount Hood is every nature lover's dream. We’ve rounded up the best Mount Hood hikes to highlight the variety of scenic trails, waterfall hikes, and backpacking trips you can experience in this mountain wilderness. [...]

17 Best Hikes Near Leavenworth, Washington

Classic PNW mountain scenery (arguably some of the best in the country!) with seemingly infinite lakes, peaks, rivers, and trails to explore makes Leavenworth a central Washington hiking hotspot. We’ve done the legwork — literally! — to round up the most incredible hikes near Leavenworth, regardless of your trail experience [...]

20 Hikes at Mt Rainier You Don’t Want to Miss

With several distinct regions, each boasting incredible PNW wilderness and views, it can be difficult deciding which hikes at Mt Rainier to embark on. To help you choose, we’ve rounded up our favorites that you don’t want to miss. Prepare to be mesmerized at every step! [...]

10 Incredible Cannon Beach Hikes for All Levels

When exploring Cannon Beach, there are trails for all hiking levels. We’ve put together this list of the best hikes near Cannon Beach so that you can plan the perfect itinerary and see some of the most beautiful views on the Oregon coast. From popular trails to unique ones, these [...]

How to Visit Tamolitch Blue Pool Oregon

In this article we'll cover everything you need to know about visiting the famous Blue Pool Oregon. From exactly how to get there to trail details and nearby attractions, we've got your covered! [...]

20 Coolest Hiking Gadgets for Outdoorsy People

Whether you’re a casual hiker or a trail fanatic, having a few hiking gadgets in your pack can make every outdoor adventure a bit more enjoyable. From helping you prepare for a true wilderness emergency to repelling pests and even keeping you entertained (and fed!), we’ve rounded up the best, [...]

20 Incredible Oregon Waterfall Hikes

With so many mountain ranges and forests, not to mention all that rain, it’s no surprise there are dozens of spectacular Oregon waterfall hikes. We've rounded up a list showcasing the full variety, from coastal falls to 600-foot drops and secluded swimming holes. Explore them all, and get ready to [...]

Tips for Hiking With Kids + How to Find the Best Kid-Friendly Hikes

Hiking with kids can seem like a daunting task, but it's easier than you might think! Here are our top tips for helping you prep, execute, and enjoy a day hiking as a family. Plus, we share some resources for finding the best hikes for kids. [...]

10 Best Daypacks for Hiking

Choosing a daypack for hiking is important, but it’s not necessarily straightforward. There are several things to consider and compare, including load capacity, material, aesthetics, and personal comfort. Plus, it’s completely subjective based on what type of hiking you enjoy! We researched and tested several of the best daypacks for [...]

17 Awesome Portland Hikes

With towering volcanoes, lush forests, and the Pacific Ocean all within two hours, there’s an outdoor adventure to match every taste. We rounded up the best hikes near Portland to highlight a diversity of trails, from easy urban escapes to full-day treks with overnight camping options. [...]

45 Best Hikes in Oregon

When hiking in Oregon, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, we’ve got the perfect hike listed here just for you. From the most epic views to the most unique hikes, this article has all the best hikes in Oregon to make any outdoor-lover [...]

Highline Trail Glacier National Park Hiking Guide

The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is one of the best hikes in Montana. In this article, we’re going to go over everything you need to plan your hike, from when go, to how to prepare and what to expect on the trail. [...]

Hiking in Winter: Essential Guide + Tips

Don't let the cold weather keep you from getting outdoors and hitting the trails. Refer to this guide for hiking in winter for everything you need to know to stay safe and be prepared! [...]

Crater Lake Hikes: 10 Best Trails in the National Park

There are some seriously incredible hikes in Crater Lake National Park. Our advice is to figure out which hikes you really want to do, and plan itinerary around them. We put together a detailed list the best Crater Lake hikes to help you plan your trip to this spectacular national [...]

Beginner Hiking Tips: Essential Info & Preparedness

What is hiking? How do I prepare for my first hike? This beginner hiking guide touches on everything you should know before hiking the great outdoors, including tips on preparation, basic trail etiquette, and finding the right gear. [...]

How to Get Outdoor & Camping Gear for Cheap

Collecting outdoor gear does not have to break the bank. Here are our top tips for finding cheap camping gear and discounts to get you outfitted for your next outdoor adventure. [...]

Enchanted Valley Trail Guide: One of the best hikes in the Olympic Peninsula

The Enchanted Valley Trail is one of the best hikes in Olympic National Park Washington. In this article, we’re going to address the most commonly asked questions about this hike and go over all the information you need to know to prepare for your Enchanted Valley hike. [...]

15 Best Hikes Near Bend, Oregon

After living in this Central Oregon town for nearly 2 years, we’ve had plenty of time to discover the best hikes near Bend, Oregon. We put together some of our favorites suitable for all levels, including easy walks and longer full-day treks. [...]

14 Grand Teton Hikes You Don’t Want to Miss

There is no shortage of incredible hikes in this national park. Our advice is to figure out which hikes you really want to do, and create your Grand Teton itinerary around them. We put together a detailed list the most epic Grand Teton hikes to help you plan your route. [...]

Silver Falls State Park: What to Expect + Best Hikes

Just a short drive from Portland, Silver Falls State Park is an amazing escape into nature. Hiking routes like the Trail of Ten Falls take you past stunning vistas of some of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls. We’ve put together a quick guide on how you can make sure you [...]

41 Gifts for Hikers that are Practical & Fun!

We've curated a list of unique gifts for hikers! If you’re an avid hiker yourself, this list is a good place to gather wish list ideas. From super practical hiking gear to budget-friendly stocking stuffers, this guide is packed full of gifts for hikers that’ll actually get used and loved. [...]

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Painted Hills Oregon

Characterized by brightly colored layers of earth, the Hills preserve an impeccable record of evolution and the changing climate over the past 40 million years. Find out everything you need to know before visiting the Painted Hills Oregon, including the history of these remarkably colorful hills and tips for visiting [...]

Broken Top Hike: How to Get There & What to Expect

Beloved by trail runners, backcountry enthusiasts and day hikers, this 15-mile round trip Broken Top Hike is not to be missed! We're going over everything you need to know to prepare for the hike, including a shortcut that'll shave miles off your trip! [...]

Tumalo Falls Hike: How to Get There & What to Expect

Just 12 miles west of downtown Bend, Oregon lies Tumalo Falls, a beautiful 97-foot waterfall in the Deschutes National Forest. Here is everything you need to know before your visit to the falls, including when to go, how to get there and how to do the Tumalo Falls Loop Hike. [...]

100 Best Adventure Quotes (+ Graphics) to Inspire You to Explore!

Check out our curated list of the 100 best adventure quotes to reignite your passion and inspire your next adventure. We've even included quote graphics to save for later [...]

What to Wear Hiking

Choosing what to wear hiking can make all the difference when it comes to being prepared for a great time on the trail. We're covering the basics from the best fabrics for hiking, how to layer, what to pack and most importantly, what not to wear on the trail. [...]

Best Outdoor Apps for Camping, Hiking & Road Trips

With this list of the best outdoor apps for camping, hiking and road trips, you'll have all the resources you need for an epic outdoor adventure at your fingertips. The apps on this list have been user tested and approved so you know you're getting the best value before you [...]

25 Best Hiking Snacks: Healthy & Delicious Trekking Food

Maybe because we always have food on the brain, hiking snacks are essential to our packing list. Here's a list of our favorite bites to bring on the trail. [...]

McCredie Hot Springs – How to Get There & What to Expect

When it comes to hot springs, Oregon has plenty to choose from, and McCredie Hot Springs is a longtime favorite of locals. We'll show you exactly how to get to McCredie Hot Springs and what to watch out for. [...]