Only hikers will understand the magical moment of hitting the trail. We’re talking about a deep feeling of connection with nature that few other experiences can compare to. While it’s wonderful to hike in silence or in the company of others, it can also be incredibly enjoyable to hike with the companionship of a good audiobook.
It doesn’t matter where you’re trekking; the right audiobook can make your hike unforgettable. Here are some diverse audiobooks that blend perfectly with the rhythm of the outdoors.
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1. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
This one might be the most obvious choice to start your hiking adventure, especially if you have ever dreamed of beating a long-distance trail. Cheryl Strayed’s memories are an emotional mix of grief and discovery. While listening, you can understand every emotional twist of her solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. The author really made history, as the book alone sold over 4 million copies worldwide.
Perfect for: Solo hikers in need of an emotional boost.
2. A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson
Go for this option if you want to have a more relaxed day and a few laughs in between. This is the story of Bill Bryson’s attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail. Comedy and chaos are guaranteed for this adventure. This is a refreshing choice if you’re used to hearing more serious audiobooks.
Why we love it: It’s a perfect mix of humor and storytelling.
3. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Feeling stuck or bored with routines is completely normal, especially for families with young children, who usually rely on structure to get through the day. Glennon Doyle offers a thoughtful reflection on identity, motherhood, and freedom. Her story captures the realities of modern life and gives us a much-needed moment to pause and reflect.
Go for this if: You’re a solo hiker or crave peaceful walks for clarity.
4. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
For those drawn to the allure of solitude and adventure, Into the Wild tells the tragic yet inspiring story of Christopher McCandless, who left everything behind to live off the land in Alaska. Krakauer’s exploration of McCandless’s quest is ideal for reflecting on what it means to truly live free.
Hiking vibe: Perfect for long treks where you can lose yourself in thought.
5. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
If you love self-discovery stories, Eat, Pray, Love is an essential listen. You might have heard about this book or even watched the film. It doesn’t really matter, and you should give the audiobook a chance, as it’s a very different experience. Gilbert’s journey through Italy, India, and Indonesia is as much about savoring life as it is about finding inner balance.
Perfect for: Scenic hikes where you can pause and take your time to be grateful.
6. Educated by Tara Westover
This is an unmatched memoir of a woman who grew up in a strict, survivalist family in rural Idaho and went on to earn a PhD from Cambridge. Her story is undoubtedly a comment about resilience and the power of education.
Why it works on the trail: There is such a strength to her story that it will push you to keep going.
7. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
The Night Circus is a lush, dreamlike tale filled with wonder and imagination. The narration by Jim Dale makes every chapter shimmer. This is a nonlinear novel, told from many different points of view that’ll keep you engaged the whole time.
Mood match: Twilight walks, misty mornings, or any hike that feels enchanted.
8. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah’s book about growing up in apartheid South Africa is as funny as it is moving. He has the perfect comedic timing to make his storytelling a standout. The power of combining both comedy and a hard truth is a gift that not everyone has, and you can definitely see that in this story.
Why we love it: It’s engaging and conversational, making it a great choice for when you want company without actually hiking with someone.
9. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
This audiobook is set in the wilds of Alaska and captures the beauty and danger of frontier life. It also explores themes like love, survival, and resilience. This audiobook can immerse you completely in the harsh but breathtaking landscape of Alaska.
Pro tip: Consider listening during the fall break so you can feel the chill of the Alaskan wilderness in every word.
10. Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
This beautifully written and narrated book blends botany, philosophy, and indigenous wisdom. Kimmerer’s voice is calm and poetic, inviting you to reconnect with nature and recognize the gifts it offers.
Best for: Gentle nature walks, meditative hikes, or moments when you want to feel deeply rooted in the world around you.
Bonus Tips
Here are a few smart habits that can make the hiking experience even better:
- Choose the right genre for your mood. What fits another hiker might not be the ideal choice for you. Make sure to pick an audiobook, keeping your personality and mood in mind.
- Keep one ear open. Your safety is always first. Use bone-conduction headphones or leave one earbud out to be able to hear what’s happening in your surroundings.
- Download offline. If you’re going offline for your hike, it’s best to download all of your essentials beforehand. In case you find yourself downloading audiobooks or other data on an insecure network while abroad or in a hotel, it’s best to do it with an encrypted connection to protect your personal information. A quick search for a VPN download on Android or iOS will give you plenty of options to keep your data safe on foreign networks.
- Pack extra power. If you have space, taking a portable charger couldn’t hurt. This way you’ll ensure finishing that chapter, even if you decide to take the long way back.
Making the Most of Your Hike
If your mind is engaged with a powerful story, the miles are likely to pass easily, especially since you’ll be multitasking and keeping your mind busy with multiple tasks like watching the road, keeping your speed, and listening.
Believe it or not, later you’ll find yourself linking moments from your hike to scenes from the book. Many people find hiking to be both restorative and empowering, a rare moment of solitude where they can do something for themselves, think clearly, or simply breathe.
Final Thoughts
The trail is waiting, and you need to get motivated. Choosing a great story can be the perfect motivation to take that first step and help you find your pace. Every hike has a story, and sometimes, the best ones are the ones you hear along the way.
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