5 Hiking Podcasts To Add To Your Playlist
I love being out on hiking trails. And when I am not out hiking, I often think about it and wish I was outdoors walking through forests with my dog. Hiking podcasts are a way for me to hear about people’s experience hiking various trails, learn tips, and get inspired for my next trip. And just like hiking, these podcasts are free! Below are five of my favourite hiking-related podcasts I think would make great additions to your playlists.
#1. Training for Trekking
Whether you are an experienced hiker or new to the activity, being in good physical shape will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Each episode of Training for Trekking explores different things you can do to prepare yourself for your next hike, prevent injuries, and get back in physically and mentally fit to tackle the trails. Most episodes are under 10 minutes long. Add it to your weekly playlist if you are preparing to go hiking.
#2. The Hiker Podcast | Day Hiking, Backpacking, Thru Hiking
Each week, host Andy Neal sits down with outdoor enthusiasts and experienced hikers to hear their stories. Episodes vary in length ranging between 30 to 60 minutes long. It is a great podcast for those who are starting out on the trails or experienced thru-hikers. I enjoy listening to this podcast and hearing people talk about what inspired them to start hiking and what keeps them going back onto the trails. It’s wonderful to hear real people talking about their hiking journeys and share their passions for the outdoors.
#3. Backpacker Radio
If you are a thru-hiker or into long-distance backpacking, then this is the podcast for you. In each episode, co-hosts Zach Davis and Juliana Chauncey interview guests, share hiking-related news, chat about trail culture, gear, and provide useful advice. Episodes are on the longer end running between 1.5 - 3 hours long. They are very informational, interesting, engaging, and will inspire you to hit the trails. Check it out for yourself.
#4. Hiking Thru
This Hiking Thru podcast launched in 2018 with new episodes dropping weekly. This podcast is jam-packed with great content related to thru-hiking and backpacking. While there hasn’t been a new episode released since May 2021, there is plenty of content for you to consume.
#5. Hike
In each episode host, Lori Prima, and her guest have engaging conversations about their hiking adventures. Explore how to plan better, what it takes to complete long-distance hikes, and learn why people love hiking among other interesting topics. These stories will inspire you to hit the trails - short or long - and explore.
#BONUS - Completely Arbortrary
While this is not a hiking-podcast, it is an excellent show nonetheless. Each week co-hosts Alex Crowson and Casey Clapp take you on a journey to explore a specific species of tree. Together, they discuss the characteristics of the particular tree, where they are found, the history of the tree, and other interesting facts. Completely Arbortrary is like listening to two really good friends share their love for trees. The show is entertaining from beginning to end. You are guaranteed to learn a thing or two about trees and laugh at the co-host’s jokes along the way. I certainly always do.