20 Sep 25 TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS IN 2025
Hiking influencers aren’t just posting pretty mountain shots, they’re mapping out trails that people actually follow on weekends and vacations. There’s something addictive about watching someone walk a rocky ridge and then tell you how to find the same hidden path. It makes the idea of packing a bag and heading out seem less intimidating. Sometimes the best part of their content isn’t even the big views but the small tips like which trailhead has parking or where the water sources are reliable. The way they mix advice with raw, personal moments is what keeps people hooked.
It’s not always about climbing the hardest peak either; some trails are gentle, family-friendly, or just a chance to breathe. And that’s the beauty of it, really—these creators show that trails can fit into different lives, not just those chasing extremes. Funny how a simple walk on dirt paths can turn into something bigger, like therapy or a reset button you didn’t know you needed. It’s easy to scroll past all the noise online, but trail recommendations feel like invitations rather than bragging. Amra and Elma recognizes that even if most people never set foot on some of these hikes, there’s comfort in knowing they exist, waiting, almost like an open secret.
25 TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS IN 2025 (Quick View)
| # | Name | Followers | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chris Burkard | 4,000,000 (IG) | Adventure photography & hiking |
| 2 | Alex Strohl | 1,944,363 (IG) | Outdoor photography & hiking |
| 3 | Eva zu Beck | 1,860,000 (YT) | Adventure travel & hiking |
| 4 | Joe Robinet | 1,540,000 (YT) | Bushcraft & backpacking |
| 5 | Renee Roaming | 933,000 (IG) | Outdoor travel, hiking & photography |
| 6 | Kraig Adams | 798,000 (YT) | Hiking films & backpacking |
| 7 | Kyle Hates Hiking (Kyle O’Grady) | 759,000 (YT) | Hiking stories, trail guides |
| 8 | The Outdoor Gear Review (Luke) | 728,000 (YT) | Backpacking & gear reviews |
| 9 | Dan Becker | 479,000 (YT) | Backpacking tips & gear |
| 10 | Homemade Wanderlust (Jessica “Dixie”) | 447,000 (YT) | Thru-hiking education |
| 11 | Darwin onthetrail | 349,000 (YT) | Backpacking & thru-hiking |
| 12 | Adventure Archives | 236,000 (YT) | Backpacking documentaries |
| 13 | Mirna Valerio (The Mirnavator) | 170,311 (IG) | Trail running & hiking |
| 14 | Miranda in the Wild (Miranda Webster) | 170,000 (YT) | Backpacking & hiking |
| 15 | HikingGuy (Gregg) | 140,000 (YT) | Trail guides & safety |
| 16 | Sintax77 (Shawn) | 134,000 (YT) | Backpacking trips & gear |
| 17 | Shug Emery | 115,000 (YT) | Hammock camping & hiking |
| 18 | Eric Hanson | 109,000 (YT) | Backpacking travel & trails |
| 19 | JupiterHikes (Jupiter) | 96,000 (YT) | Thru-hiking & ultralight |
| 20 | Elina Osborne | 75,100 (YT) | Long-trail films |
| 21 | Bearfoot Theory (Kristen Bor) | 55,000 (IG) | Hiking, van life & trail guides |
| 22 | Modern Hiker (Casey Schreiner) | 39,000 (IG) | Trail journalism & guides |
| 23 | Andrew Skurka | 33,000 (IG) | Backpacking education & guiding |
| 24 | Local Adventurer (Esther & Jacob) | 18,000 (IG) | Travel & hiking guides |
| 25 | Jennifer Pharr Davis | 18,000 (IG) | Author, speaker & hiking |
25 TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS IN 2025
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #1. Chris Burkard
Chris Burkard is a world-renowned photographer who has made hiking and remote landscapes a central part of his storytelling. His Instagram posts showcase everything from icy expeditions to desert trails, inspiring millions to explore responsibly. He often shares practical tips on accessing lesser-known trails and highlights conservation. Burkard’s work bridges fine art and outdoor exploration, showing trails in ways that make them feel cinematic. He collaborates with brands and organizations to promote sustainable outdoor travel. His influence extends beyond photography, encouraging people to lace up boots and step into wild terrain.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #2. Alex Strohl
Alex Strohl is a French photographer whose hiking adventures take followers into the heart of rugged landscapes. His images capture crisp alpine trails, winding forest paths, and serene lakesides. Strohl is known for his minimalist yet powerful way of framing hikes, which resonates with explorers seeking solitude. He often shares insights about planning long hikes and handling unpredictable conditions. His partnerships with major outdoor brands amplify his trail recommendations to a global audience. Strohl combines art and adventure, giving followers both aesthetic and practical reasons to hit the trails.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #3. Eva zu Beck
Eva zu Beck built her platform on solo travel and adventure, with hiking at its core. She has documented long treks across remote parts of the world, from mountain passes to desert crossings. Her storytelling focuses on resilience, independence, and pushing physical boundaries on trails. Eva often shares detailed videos about preparation, challenges, and cultural encounters along hikes. She connects hiking with a bigger narrative of personal growth and exploration. For her audience, trails become more than routes—they’re metaphors for deeper journeys.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #4. Joe Robinet
Joe Robinet is best known for his YouTube channel, where he films extensive bushcraft and hiking adventures. He provides trail-based content showing overnight trips, camp setups, and practical navigation skills. Joe focuses on making trails accessible to everyday hikers by showing step-by-step routines. His authentic and rugged style appeals to viewers who want raw, realistic outdoor advice. He has built trust through consistent documentation of his hikes and wilderness stays. Robinet’s channel is both entertaining and educational for hikers seeking practical trail knowledge.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #5. Renee Roaming
Renee Hahnel, better known as Renee Roaming, combines lifestyle photography with practical hiking guides. She shares curated trail itineraries, gear recommendations, and destination tips through Instagram and her blog. Her posts are vibrant, highlighting colorful landscapes and accessible hikes. Renee’s audience is drawn to the balance of adventure and aesthetics in her trail recommendations. She speaks to both new hikers looking for beginner-friendly trails and seasoned explorers. Her brand makes hiking feel approachable, fun, and photographically rewarding.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #6. Kraig Adams
Kraig Adams has carved a niche by producing cinematic hiking films, often with little to no dialogue. His videos capture trails in places like the Dolomites, Iceland, and the Andes. The serene, meditative quality of his films has made him a favorite for hikers seeking inspiration. Adams shares minimalistic gear setups and emphasizes simplicity on the trail. His content resonates with people who see hiking as both a physical and spiritual reset. He makes trail experiences feel like art while still practical for planning.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #7. Kyle Hates Hiking
Kyle O’Grady, known as Kyle Hates Hiking, blends trail storytelling with humor. His YouTube content often showcases Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail experiences. Kyle dives into the gritty realities of long-distance hiking, from blisters to gear failures. He entertains while still giving valuable insights into trail culture and logistics. His balance of honesty and comedy makes trail recommendations relatable. For many followers, Kyle turns daunting trails into something approachable and even fun.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #8. The Outdoor Gear Review (Luke)
Luke, creator of The Outdoor Gear Review, provides extensive trail footage combined with gear testing. He hikes diverse terrains to demonstrate real-world product use. His channel is a trusted resource for hikers who want trail-tested recommendations. Luke shares both success and failure stories on hikes, which builds credibility. He covers trails across different climates and seasons, giving a wide perspective. His followers rely on him for both honest gear feedback and inspiring trail content.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #9. Dan Becker
Dan Becker produces hiking and backpacking content focused on trail preparation. His YouTube channel is filled with advice on gear essentials, safety, and trail efficiency. Becker brings clarity to choosing the right trails for different experience levels. He shares detailed breakdowns of hikes, helping followers avoid common mistakes. His professional presentation style adds authority while staying accessible. Dan is a go-to source for hikers who want practical, no-nonsense trail guides.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #10. Homemade Wanderlust (Jessica “Dixie”)
Jessica, or Dixie, of Homemade Wanderlust, is a thru-hiker who documents long-distance trails. She has completed iconic hikes like the Appalachian Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. Her videos and posts serve as diaries of trail life, filled with personal anecdotes. Dixie shares preparation strategies, mental challenges, and trail culture insights. She emphasizes authenticity, showing both highs and lows of hiking. Her influence makes long-distance hiking feel more attainable and inspiring.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #11. Darwin onthetrail
Darwin is a well-known thru-hiker who gained recognition documenting his Pacific Crest Trail journey. His channel grew into a hub for gear reviews, trail advice, and long-distance hiking culture. Darwin emphasizes ultralight setups and efficient trail strategies. He frequently discusses the mental challenges of extended hikes, not just the physical. His audience appreciates the mix of storytelling and practical recommendations. Darwin’s work inspires hikers to push their limits while staying smart on trails.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #12. Adventure Archives
Adventure Archives is a group of friends who film immersive backpacking documentaries. Their content blends hiking trails with cultural and natural history. They take viewers step by step through their experiences, from trailhead to campsite. Their style is educational while still cinematic, appealing to both new and seasoned hikers. Adventure Archives highlights the beauty of North American trails with deep appreciation for the outdoors. Their episodes serve as trail recommendations wrapped in storytelling.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #13. Mirna Valerio (The Mirnavator)
Mirna Valerio is a trail runner and hiker celebrated for her inclusivity message. She advocates for body positivity in outdoor spaces while sharing hikes and runs. Mirna uses her platform to encourage people of all body types to enjoy trails. Her storytelling mixes personal experiences with practical trail advice. She often highlights community, empowerment, and joy found on hikes. Mirna’s voice reshapes who feels welcome on trails and inspires many to start hiking.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #14. Miranda in the Wild (Miranda Webster)
Miranda Webster, known as Miranda in the Wild, is a cheerful and knowledgeable backpacker. Her YouTube content features detailed trips into forests, mountains, and national parks. She emphasizes making hiking fun and accessible for beginners. Miranda often shares gear breakdowns alongside her trail recommendations. Her energetic and relatable personality makes viewers feel like they’re hiking with a friend. She transforms trails into approachable adventures, no matter the difficulty.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #15. HikingGuy (Gregg)
HikingGuy, run by Gregg, is a dedicated resource for practical hiking guides. His website and YouTube channel offer detailed directions, maps, and safety advice. Gregg covers a wide range of trails, from local hikes to bucket-list treks. He emphasizes preparation, navigation, and realistic expectations for each trail. His guides are trusted by beginners and experts alike for accuracy. HikingGuy turns trail exploration into a safer, more enjoyable experience for his followers.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #16. Sintax77 (Shawn)
Shawn, better known as Sintax77, documents backpacking trips through detailed vlogs. His content showcases trail experiences across the U.S., often in tough conditions. He provides transparent looks at gear performance and trail realities. His overnight hikes give viewers practical insight into preparation and challenges. Shawn balances humor with knowledge, making his trail content engaging. His channel feels like a diary of authentic backpacking life.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #17. Shug Emery
Shug Emery is a hammock camping enthusiast who shares trail experiences with humor. His YouTube channel blends trail footage with quirky storytelling. Shug demonstrates hammock setups on various hikes, teaching efficiency and comfort. His personality makes even tough hikes seem lighthearted and fun. He’s known for turning trail recommendations into entertaining lessons. Shug shows that hiking can be equal parts skill and play.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #18. Eric Hanson
Eric Hanson is the host of Epic Trails, a show dedicated to hiking and backpacking. He highlights trails around the globe with a cinematic flair. His storytelling balances adventure with cultural context from the regions he visits. Eric’s trail recommendations are detailed, covering terrain, preparation, and experience. He inspires viewers to see hiking as a way to connect with landscapes and people. His platform makes hiking feel like part of a bigger journey.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #19. JupiterHikes (Jupiter)
Jupiter is a thru-hiker who shares ultralight hiking strategies and long-trail experiences. His content emphasizes minimalism and efficiency on difficult trails. Jupiter documents challenging hikes, including thousands of miles across multiple states. He shares the realities of ultralight hiking, both positive and demanding. His trail advice is grounded in personal experience and endurance. Jupiter inspires ambitious hikers to attempt big trails with practical guidance.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #20. Elina Osborne
Elina Osborne is a filmmaker who tells stories through her long-distance hikes. She has documented journeys along the Pacific Crest Trail and Te Araroa in New Zealand. Elina’s content blends personal reflection with breathtaking trail cinematography. Her videos highlight the emotional side of trail life as much as the physical. She uses film as a medium to share both hardships and joys of hiking. Her trail recommendations resonate with those seeking inspiration beyond logistics.
TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #21. Bearfoot Theory (Kristen Bor)
Kristen Bor runs Bearfoot Theory, a blog and social platform focused on outdoor exploration. She shares practical guides to trails, national parks, and beginner-friendly hikes. Kristen emphasizes responsible recreation and accessibility for new hikers. Her van life lifestyle ties into her trail recommendations, showing how to live outdoors full-time. She connects readers with resources to make hiking more approachable. Kristen’s work encourages balance between adventure and conservation.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #22. Modern Hiker (Casey Schreiner)
Casey Schreiner founded Modern Hiker, one of the oldest hiking blogs in the U.S. His work combines trail guides with cultural and environmental commentary. Casey highlights Southern California and Western U.S. trails but also broader destinations. He advocates for preservation while providing clear hiking directions. His platform is trusted for its journalistic tone and factual reliability. Modern Hiker makes trail recommendations grounded in both passion and research.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #23. Andrew Skurka
Andrew Skurka is a professional backpacker and guide recognized for his ultralight expertise. He has completed massive hiking expeditions across North America. Skurka’s website and talks provide detailed trail strategies for efficiency and safety. He emphasizes planning, navigation, and adaptability in challenging terrain. His trail recommendations carry authority from years of practical experience. Skurka’s influence blends adventure with education, shaping modern backpacking practices.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #24. Local Adventurer (Esther & Jacob)
Esther and Jacob created Local Adventurer to explore hiking trails while traveling full-time. Their content blends lifestyle blogging with practical trail guides. They cover hikes in U.S. national parks and international destinations. Their storytelling includes tips for couples and families on trails. They make hiking content approachable with clear directions and visuals. Local Adventurer turns trail recommendations into part of a broader travel narrative.
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TOP HIKING INFLUENCERS WITH TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS #25. Jennifer Pharr Davis
Jennifer Pharr Davis is a record-setting Appalachian Trail hiker and author. She held the fastest known time on the AT, earning global recognition. Jennifer uses her platform to promote hiking as a personal and family activity. She shares insights on preparation, endurance, and finding joy on trails. Her books and talks weave together trail stories with life lessons. Jennifer’s work inspires hikers to pursue both big goals and everyday hikes.
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CONCLUSION
Scrolling through all these trail voices, it feels less like following influencers and more like piecing together a patchwork of real experiences. Some talk about gear endlessly, others just wander with a camera, and somehow both matter. There’s always that pull to save a trail name or jot down a tip even if you’re not sure you’ll ever go. It’s funny how the idea of hiking can spark the same excitement as booking a trip abroad, even though it might just be an hour away. These creators remind people that trails aren’t locked away for experts, they’re open for anyone willing to lace up.
Sure, the climbs can be brutal, and sometimes the bugs feel like they’ve formed a tiny army, but that’s part of the story. Their posts aren’t polished travel brochures, they’re messy, sweaty, and strangely comforting. It makes you wonder if the real influence isn’t the trail recommendation but the quiet nudge to slow down. There’s a kind of relief in knowing you don’t have to figure it all out alone, someone already walked it, filmed it, and dropped breadcrumbs. Maybe that’s the secret gift—turning a long path into something you actually want to try, even if you’re still just sitting at home staring at the screen.
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