Gifts here are as exciting to research as they are to use. All of these items are gifts that can keep on giving well beyond the holidays. From hikers being carried, to seasoned legs on the trail, these hiking gift ideas will lead you to the right gift.
Time outside away from it all can be fulfilling and full of memories. Over the years we have built up our gear closet with items perfectly tailored to our family hiking fun. One big ticket item per year is usually how we roll. Great gear can make all the difference but keep in mind the balance of just getting out there as is and curating the perfect hiking setup.
Hiking is the first step of many steps that can lead to backpacking, traveling and even snowshoeing or skiing. As with any family hobby there will be different levels of skill and interest. As the parent or facilitator of the activity it can be intimidating and you may think that a hike needs to be a certain length to count. Nope, leave all that behind and get out the door.
For those here who are well seasoned trail explorers looking for the gear to ease and enhance their experience, we’ve got you covered. As kids grow and interests change, the way they experience and interact with the outdoors changes as well. Hiking is the hobby that can stay with you for a lifetime, it is never too early or too late to start.
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Gifts for Beginner Hikers
New to hiking, no problem. These gifts will have you on the trail with confidence to keep in touch, know where you’re going and able to travel far.
Rocky Talkies
Rocky Talkies are a way to keep in touch on the trail even in the most remote of places. Giving more freedom to explore on the trail or during a lunch break Rocky Talkies are going to go the distance.
Trekking Poles
The knee savers of the backcountry. Trekking poles offer you the extra hand or two that you need while on the trail and give you that boost of confidence on off road terrain.
Hiking Trail Maps
Take it old school and grab a topographic map of an area you’ll be hiking. A lovely surprise to unwrap a map a Grand Teton or Glacier and know that dream trip is going to happen.
Coolest Gifts for Hikers
For the hiker looking to step it up these gifts are the ticket. Looking for new trails far from civilization with challenging terrain? These items will get you there.
Garmin Mini InReach
For those that wander far off the beaten path the Garmin InReach keeps in touch with family and emergency services. Your mind can rest easy knowing that where ever you are you would be able to contact help if it was needed.
All Trails+
The All Trails Plus app/subscription with dozens of features, maps and photos you’ll be well prepared for what the trail has in store. Downloading maps for when you’re out of range is another game changing feature.
Kahtoola Microspikes
Kahtoola Microspikes are going to lead to places where only the prepared can go. A lightweight easy decision to toss in your pack to allow you to get to your destination.
Check out all our recommended Ice Cleats for Kids and Adults!
Family Hiking Gifts
Here we have favorite one stop shops for hats, packs and socks. Brands that can outfit the entire family with style and function.
Darn Tough Wool Socks
Made in the USA Darn Tough socks aren’t only durable but the patterns and colors are hard to beat. From kids to adult sizes these will make for happy feet on the trail. The darn tough guarantee backs their socks for life or they’ll send you another pair.
Sunday Afternoon Hats
This brand has everyone covered, year round, with styles for every taste. Sunday Afternoons thoughtful features will have you coming back for every hat. They also have a program for kids out growing their hats and offer deep discounts for those heads that just keep growing. These are a TMM Team Favorite!
Deuter Packs
For frames small and large, Deuter Packs has got your back. Deuter has hip belts to accommodate all sizes, women’s specific, kid carriers, toddler packs and more. A true one stop shop for all your pack needs.
Small Hiking Gifts
Looking to plump up a stocking or a smaller scale gift? These are no less important and extremely handy.
MY Medic Refills
Build your our first aid kit or restock those items you know your hiker goes through. MY Medic is designed with practicality and ease of use in mind.
Scratch Labs Snacks and Refuel
Skip the candy and stuff the stocking with quality snacks to keep the adventure going.
Joshua Tree Sunscreen
One sunscreen for the entire family, clean ingredients and reef safe options are just few products Joshua Tree has to offer.
Black Diamond Cosmo Headlamp
With many color options and a rechargeable battery this headlamp is a winner for every hiker. The Cosmo is also available at REI.
Hiking Gifts for Her
Bringing luxury to the hiking ladies, each one of these items has been thoughtful designed with females in mind.
The Kula Cloth
Peeing in the wild doesn’t need to be uncomfortable. Kula cloth is the original cloth for comfort on the trail.
Branwyn Essential Busty Bra
Branwyn’s wool won’t leave with more laundry and understands the support women need while on the trail.
Check out our full review on Branwyn Innerwear!
Shredly Shorts
Designed for every body Shredly’s variety of colors and sizes are sure to be a hit. Their clothing lines are meant for movement and comfort. Their Limitless stretch waistband shorts are so comfy!
Ibex Indie Hoodie
This wool top is a worthwhile investment for adventuring year-round. It’s light and breathes well, but is also surprisingly warm for hiking and camping as the sun goes down.
Hiking Gifts for Him
These are all practical and soon the be can’t live without hiking go to. The items here all the use every hike kind of gift.
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
Outdoor Research Men’s Helium Jacket is pack able and light, perfect for the hiker to toss in their pack.
Icebreaker Anatomica Wool Underwear
Great base layers make a difference, these wool boxers will keep a hiker happy for days.
Stio Hylas Hooded Sunshirt
Sun shirts that can not only offer protection but also enough prints and colors to choose from to let the personality shine through.
Ibex 24 Hour Tee
Available for both men and women, this tee is one that wicks sweat, won’t stink, and feels great on your skin. Pretty much the perfect hiking tee!
Gifts for the Teen Hiker
These gifts are meant to open the outdoors in new ways. Exploring the idea of hiking becoming a lot more than going from A to B.
Outside Inside Backpack Watercolor Kit
Take extra time to disconnect and let the view sink in, this little kit is just the ticket for meaningful outdoor experiences.
NOCS Binoculars
NOCS has binoculars in so many colors and are fantastic to give the same hike a new perspective.
Letterfolk Hikers Diary
A gift to help remember those magic moments on the trail, the sunrises that were seen and the hikes out under the stars.
Kids Hiking Gifts
Practical and playful. For the littles who are watching and learning from your every move. These gifts allow kids to feel and look as an equal member of the hiking group.
Kidamento Camera
Allow the kids to capture moments and captivate themselves. Their pictures will be a refreshing view of the world. This digital camera is easy to use and durable.
Stio Hylas Sunshirt
Less skin can burn when less is showing, keep your kids covered with these long sleeve and hooded sun shirts.
Julbo Rookie 2 Sunglasses
Little lenses for little eyes, these frames fit so well and have a great selection of styles and colors to chose from.
Hiking Essentials Gifts
Some hiker may not know these items exist! Now you know these items are sure to become essentials in any hiking home.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Gaiters
Say goodbye to rocks and hello to clean feet, gaiters can be put over boots or trail running shoes.
NOSO Patches
Spice up the gear you love, NOSO patches extend the life of gear that wants to continue to serve you.
Lifestraw On the Go Filter
Easy, compact and affordable. Never be thirsty or ration water on a hike again. Lifestraw has you covered.
Footwear Hiking Gifts
Happy are the feet with the right boot. And don’t forget the stream crossings! These brands can outfit the entire crew for anything.
Check out all our favorite Hiking Shoes for Kids and Best Hiking Shoes for Women.
Zamberlan Load Carrying Boots
For those carrying children, having boots meant to support your feet while heavily loaded are a game changer.
Keen Targhee Kids Hiking Boots
Waterproof, no laces and durable, these Keen boots are an easy win for toddlers and kids.
NuuSol McCall Shoes
These are lightweight and grippy in the water making these a top option for stream crossings.
Hiking Experience Gifts
When you’re not looking for an item but an experience the possibilities are endless. Give the gift of reservations or a park pass.
Hiking Permits
One of the most exciting gifts is a trip to look forward too, permits are already open for next year.
National Parks Pass
Giving a Park Pass is strong motivation to get out there and do the hike, plan that trip and hike to your hearts desire.
Yurt, Cabin or Tent Reservations
When your hiking destinations take you far from home planning ahead to get the most out of your drive is always a good idea. Find a nice spot nestled in the backcountry to extend the miles you can cover.
What to Give a Hiker?
Gifts big or small, planned trips, bucket list hikes, or socks. This year give gifts that fuel adventure. A hiker that is happy from head to toe can go the distance. There is no limit to where your feet can take you. Dream big and gift smart.
Looking for More Gift Ideas for Outdoor Families?
Related Posts:
- Toddler Hiking: Checklist and Tips
- Hiking With Baby Gear
- Best Hiking Gear for Women
- Gear for Hiking in the Rain
Hiking Gift Ideas for Everyone
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