These 8 Nature Podcasts Are Perfect for Listening and Hiking
While some hikers enjoy being alone with their thoughts, others like to use this time to listen to music or nature podcasts.
Being outdoors enjoying nature is one of the greatest joys a person can find. Between the fresh air and the activity that comes with a good hike, your mind is in the perfect place.
To help you get ready for your next outdoor adventure, here are eight of the best podcasts to listen to while on your hike or to help you prepare for one:
The Dirtbag Diaries
Dirtbag Diaries, hosted by Fitz Cahall, is one of those nature podcasts that only enhances your own trek through the tales from other outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll hear everything from personal stories about mountain climbing to paragliding. You might find yourself turning a little green with envy, but you’ll ultimately be more encouraged to seek new paths to explore.
Hardcore History
Who says that a hiking podcast has to focus on the outdoors? If you’re going to be out on the trail for a few hours, why not add to your knowledge base? Thanks to political commentator Dan Carlin, you’ll enjoy stories of the past that get tied to the present. The show is created in a long-form fashion, which means each episode is long enough for some of your more intense hikes.
She Explores
Host Gale Straub uses the She Explores podcast to share stories, interviews, listener submissions, and in-field recordings. Episodes cover everything from solo hiking to camping with some themes of diversity, motherhood, feminism, and more. Each episode empowers female explorers to get out into nature and build memories.
Wild Ideas Worth Living
The Wild Ideas Worth Living podcast, hosted by journalist Shelby Stanger, is full of intense interviews with world-class athletes, health experts, scientists, authors, and tons of other kinds of people who love the outdoors. All of these guests have one thing in common: they took a wild idea and turned it into reality. Use your next hike to find the motivation to chase even the wildest of your dreams.
Backpacker Radio
If you’ve ever considered doing long-distance backpacking, the Backpacker Radio podcast is a must. Co-hosts Zach Davis and Juliana Chauncey discuss everything related to the backpacking life. You’ll hear about news, backpacking culture, gear advice, and more. You might even learn about a few hikes to add to your bucket list.
Backpacking and Blisters
Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned expert, the Backpacking and Blisters podcast offers relatable stories appropriate for everyone. The show covers a variety of topics and has well over 100 episodes available. With each one lasting between 45 minutes to an hour, you have plenty of time to dig in and join the conversation.
By Land
The By Land podcast is one of those shows that will get your gears turning while you’re out on the open trail. The show features world-leading experts that work towards teaching listeners useful outdoor skills. What people love about this show is that it breaks down even the most complicated skills into manageable steps to help you become a better hiker, mountaineering, camping, and more.
Training For Trekking
The goal of the Training For Trekkers podcast is to help hikers learn and plan their outdoor treks. It is best suited for those looking for education and encouragement on how to best prepare for various adventures. Each episode is easily digestible at only around 15 minutes in length. The tips provided are highly accessible and straight to the point.
The Options Are Endless
While these are just some of the top nature podcasts for hiking enthusiasts, there really is no limit to what you can do on the trail. There are podcasts available for nearly every subject and theme, which means you can definitely find something appropriate for your taste. You might even find that time on the trail creates a perfect opportunity to learn, explore new ideas, and practice mindfulness. Of course, don’t forget to take in your surroundings from time to time.