Best Hiking Snacks to Keep You Satisfied
Ready to conquer those trails but bored of your current snacks? You’re not alone! The food is one of the best parts of hiking, haha. Fueling your body effectively is just as crucial as having the right gear, and that’s where the best hiking snacks come into play. Forget those sad, squished granola bars of the past. This guide dives into a delicious and energizing array of trail-ready treats designed to keep you going mile after mile, from quick bursts of energy to sustained power for those longer treks.
Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used in this post, which I do benefit from. It’s a great way to show support, if you want to!
What Makes a Good Hiking Snack?
What truly elevates a hiking snack from mere sustenance to trail-blazing fuel? The best hiking snacks strike a delicate balance. They’re lightweight enough not to weigh you down on steep ascents, yet energy-dense to power your muscles through challenging terrain. Ideally, they offer a good mix of carbohydrates for quick energy, protein for sustained power and muscle recovery, and healthy fats for longer-lasting satiety. Bonus points for being easy to digest, relatively non-perishable, and, let’s be honest, something you actually look forward to eating when you need that extra boost on the trail!
- Lightweight & Portable: Easy to carry and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
- Energy-Dense: Provides a good amount of calories for their weight, and sometimes with a little extra caffeine!
- Nutritious: Offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
- Easy to Digest: Won’t cause stomach upset during physical activity.
- Non-Perishable (mostly): Can withstand varying temperatures and conditions.
- Delicious & Appealing: You’re more likely to eat it when you need it!
Categorizing the Best Hiking Snacks
Okay, let’s go over categories of the best hiking snacks. I’ll be including MY FAVORITES, and I’m also including favorites of my audience (I surveyed them!!)
energy boosters
Energy boosting hiking snacks are one of my favorites, haha. This is great for long hikes, or EARLY hikes. We all love sunrise hikes, but it’s so hard to wake up and just get there. Plus, a little caffeine does enhance athletic performance. The Honey Stinger bites are so good and fruity, love those especially on hot days. I was recently introduced to Get Up Energy Bites that have clean ingredients and are super yummy. Awake Chocolates are a recent favorite as well with 50mg of caffeine in a chocolate- the only caution would be not to bring it on a hike that the chocolate would melt, or even eat it beforehand!
- Personal Favorites: Honey Stinger Energy Bites, Awake Chocolate (code DANIELLE30), Get Up Energy Bites
- Audience Favorites: Honey Stinger Energy Bites, Fit Mama Foods Protein Bites, Cliff Bloks Energy Chews
protein/nutrient dense snacks
When the trail demands endurance and your muscles are working hard, protein-packed best hiking snacks become your steadfast allies. Amino acids aid in muscle repair and help you feel fuller for longer stretches. Think satisfying bites like jerky or biltong, conveniently packaged nut butter pouches, hard-boiled eggs prepped before your trek, or protein bars specifically formulated for sustained energy. Incorporating these protein-rich options into your pack ensures you’re not just fueling the climb, but also supporting your body’s recovery as you conquer those miles.
The Gruns Gummies I mention below are the best. They’re individual packets and actually are multivitamins and greens gummies, and it has a strawberry flavor. They’re really filling too. It’s like healthy fruit snacks. I love a good clear whey or protein lemonade – delicious, fruity, and good for you!
- Personal Favorites: Gruns Multivitamin & Greens Gummies (45% off), SALTT Electrolytes, Protein Lemonade, Uncrustables (or anything with Peanut Butter), Nature Valley Protein Bars
- Audience Favorites: String Cheese, Carrots/Celery, Austin Peanut Butter and Cheese Crackers, Aloha Protein Bars, No Cow Bars
salty & savory hiking snacks
Let’s get into the next category: salty and savory snacks. You lose salt when you’re sweating, and it’s good to replenish this. It always tastes delicious to have a salty snack on the trail. My favorite is PRETZELS. Pretzels all the way.
- Personal Favorites: Pretzels, Salt & Vinegar Chips, Nuts
- Audience Favorites: Goldfish, Nuts, Ramen, Drief Mango
sugary/ fun snacks
Sometimes, amidst the nuts and protein, a little bit of fun and a quick sugar boost is exactly what you need to lift your spirits and provide a rapid burst of energy on the trail. While not the cornerstone of sustained hiking fuel, the best hiking snacks can absolutely include some delightful sugary treats. Think small bags of gummy bears, nerds gummy clusters, or whatever your fav is! These can be morale boosters during a tough climb or a little reward for reaching a scenic viewpoint. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation alongside your more substantial, nutrient-rich options!
- Personal Favorites: Sour Gummy Worms, Sour Patch Kids
- Audience Favorites: Chocolate, Nerds Gummy Clusters, Oreos
Factors to Consider when Choosing Your Hiking Snacks
Choosing the best hiking snacks isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor; several factors come into play to ensure you’re properly fueled for your specific adventure. Consider the length and intensity of your hike: a short, leisurely stroll will have different energy demands than a multi-day backpacking trip. Weather conditions also play a role; scorching heat might necessitate more electrolyte-rich options, while colder temperatures could call for more calorie-dense choices. Don’t forget your personal preferences and dietary needs, whether you have allergies, follow a specific diet, or simply have favorite flavors. Finally, think about weight and pack space – every ounce counts on the trail – and the shelf life and durability of your snacks to ensure they remain palatable and intact throughout your journey.
packing your snacks
Once you’ve curated your selection of the best hiking snacks, thoughtful packing is key to ensuring they’re easily accessible and stay in good condition throughout your hike. Consider portioning your snacks into reusable bags or containers to prevent overeating and make grabbing a quick bite effortless without having to rummage through your entire pack. Stash these snack portions in easily reachable pockets of your backpack – hip belt pockets or the top lid are often ideal – so you can fuel up on the go without breaking your stride. For more delicate items, like fruit or softer bars, consider using a crush-proof container to prevent them from getting squished. And most importantly, always remember to pack out all wrappers and any food scraps, leaving no trace of your delicious trail fuel behind.
- Portioning: Pre-portioning snacks for easier consumption and to avoid overeating.
- Accessibility: Keep snacks in an easily reachable pocket of your backpack.
- Timing: Eat regularly before you feel hungry or depleted.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all wrappers and food scraps.
- Variety is Key: Bring a mix of sweet, savory, and energy-boosting options.
Final Thoughts About The Best Hiking Snacks
Sedona, Arizona, is a hiker’s paradise, boasting a diverse range of trails that showcase its iconic red rock formations and breathtaking landscapes. From the easily accessible Birthing Cave with its panoramic views, to the adventurous Keyhole Cave and its dramatic opening, and the serene solitude of Margs Draw, there’s a hike for every preference and skill level. Whether you’re seeking spiritual connection at Bell Rock, a quick summit with stunning vistas at Doe Mountain, or a hidden gem like Secret Slick Rock, Sedona’s trails offer unforgettable experiences. Each hike provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and mystical charm of this captivating desert destination, making Sedona a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
