Top 21 Things To Do While Hiking (Day & Overnight Hiking)
Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy nature and stay active. It is gratifying on its own and provides an impactful way to experience the great outdoors that surrounds you. For those who enjoy longer daytime hikes and overnight hiking, the path ahead of you can begin to feel monotonous and long. If you’re embarking on a longer hike, it can be worthwhile to have some activities to help pass the time and keep your mind alert (especially if you are hiking with children).
This list is full of fun activities that will not only keep you engaged on your hike but will highlight even more of the natural beauty around you that you may not have noticed on your own. That being said, here are 21 things you can do during day or overnight hiking!
1. I Spy
I Spy makes for an entertaining hiking game to pass the time by that can be played by all ages. What makes this game perfect for hiking is that it requires no materials and utilizes only the scenery around you. Not to mention it is quite easy to learn and is a great way to engage with your surroundings. You may even notice things that you otherwise wouldn’t.
New to I Spy? Here’s how you play!
Pick something in your field of view while on the trail, then give your hiking partners clues to what the object is. To give them clues, you will say something along the lines of “I Spy with my little eye, something that is …” You can say anything to describe the object, such as the colour, shape, naming the first letter it begins with, etc. Your partner will then respond by saying, “is it a ….?” until they eventually guess it correctly.
There are endless things you can choose from on your hike to try and get your hiking partner to guess.
2. Identify Flora and Fauna
Much of the nature you pass by hiking might be new and foreign to you. It is important to be aware of what kinds of plants grow in the area you are hiking in for safety purposes, but it can also make for a fun and educational activity.
There are a few ways you can do this. The first is by trying to identify any flora or fauna around you that seems familiar. Next, do a quick web search. Many plants can be identified simply by a picture. In addition to being a fun guessing game, it will help give you a deeper understanding of life on the trail. We recommend taking photos and making notes along the way. Then, once you have completed your hike, search the web to identify the flora and fauna you spotted and see how many you guessed correctly.
The second option is to take plant guides or books along with you to help identify flora and fauna while also disconnecting from your phone.
3. Pick Up Trash
The world is full of trash, and unfortunately, a lot of it finds its way to the trails we love to hike. Try and pick up any trash that you come across while on the trail. Even if it’s just picking up a can or bottle, every little bit helps. Be sure to bring a trash bag on every hike so you can take away some trash with you.
This will keep your mind occupied while also making a positive impact on the environment. It’s always best to leave the trail in a better way than you found it. This is to be courteous to other hikers and wildlife that may pass through after you leave. Picking up trash is both impactful and rewarding during your hike and can help pass the time.
4. Stargazing
Stargazing is another superb activity to do on a hike towards the end of the day. Depending on where you are, the sky can be filled with various star clusters and constellations to identify. Find a clear spot that is far away from city lights, and you’ll be amazed at what you can see in the night sky. Stargazing is exciting because each person may notice different things in the sky, which can keep you occupied for hours.
The best part is, you do not need to bring a telescope or binoculars to stargaze. There are endless possibilities of what you can see when just stargazing with your eyes. If you are hiking overnight and are lucky enough to set up camp, this is a great way to spend the evenings before your next day of hiking.
5. Have A Scavenger Hunt
Having a scavenger hunt can liven up any short or long hike. You can create a scavenger hunt based on your surroundings. It can be also be customized to fit the length and scenery of the hike.
To plan a scavenger hunt, begin by creating a list of all of the things your hiking group should find along the way. The first person to find all of the items on the list is declared the winner. This is a perfect way to keep everyone on the hike engaged and involved.
6. Identify Animals
Identifying animals in the area is a superb way to learn more about the world around you. Animals are often the hardest to identify as they are constantly on the move and can be difficult to hear on the trail.
Try and identify any wildlife while on the trail, even if it’s just a lizard or squirrel passing by. It is important to note that you should never approach or attempt to feed wildlife for your safety and the animals. If you do wish to get a better view, we suggest using binoculars (link to check the price at Backcountry) from a safe distance away.
While hiking, you should always respect the trails and the animals that inhabit the area.
7. Fishing
Fishing is a relaxing activity that can be done in a variety of ways. It’s particularly enjoyable when camping with your friends or alone. If you are lucky enough to hike in an area with open water, fishing is an excellent way to pass the time on breaks.
Be aware of any fishing rules and regulations in your area and only go fishing if permitted. Not every hike is an open water hike. Nonetheless, if you have the chance to fish, be sure to take it as an opportunity to relax and decompress.
8. Foraging
Depending on your hiking location, there may be various edible plants and berries in the area. Foraging for food is a way to add another level of excitement to your hike and provide some snacks for your trek.
Be sure to pay attention to what plants and berries are safe to eat in your area. Not all plants are meant to be eaten, so it’s crucial to do your research if you choose to partake in foraging on your hike. Before eating anything you have found in the wild, make sure you’re confident in what it is. If you are unsure, do not eat it.
9. Photography
Photography is an awe-inspiring hobby that you can enjoy on any hike. Hiking allows you to get creative and become intimate with the nature around you. Photographs are the perfect way to remember your hike and keep those memories alive forever.
For many people, hiking is an escape from the world and the perfect time to snap some pictures. Take your time while hiking, enjoy all the details that surround you and take countless photos.
Framing your photos or making a calendar out of them makes for a unique way to showcase your hiking accomplishments and highlight your passion for the outdoors. Not to mention they make for creative gifts for your loved ones!
10. Quiet Time
Even if you are on a popular hiking trail, try taking some time to find a place away from crowds to sit and enjoy nature. It’s important to sit down and relax after a long day of hiking. This helps you reconnect with nature, leave behind any stress and prepare yourself for the rest of your hiking adventures.
Making time to be still and quiet on a hike is greatly rewarding and allows you to tune in to the world around you. Take time to listen to all of the surrounding wildlife. You may even want to make a list of all the things you hear during your quiet time.
11. Draw What You See
A way to get in touch with your artistic side is to try drawing what you see while hiking. Drawing is a novel way to take in everything you have observed and immortalize it. This can be done either in a group or alone and does not require much energy, just some creativity.
If you are in a group, have everyone take turns drawing what they see on the paper. Then, share your artwork along with your peers. Everyone sees the world differently, so this a fun way to share your perspective (and art skills). The drawings can then be taken back home and hung as memories from an incredible hike.
12. Meditate
Trying to find time to meditate can be difficult if you are hiking on popular trails. However, if you can find a spot to be alone or away from the crowd, you should try mediation. It is a great way to clear your mind and focus your energy on the world around you. This will help ground you and keep your concentration on your goal of reaching the end of the hike.
Try taking some time each day of your hike to sit down in silence and clear your mind. Meditating in nature helps you reach a new level of connection with the environment around you and shows appreciation for the place you are hiking.
13. Play Rock To Rock
Rock to rock is a simple game to keep your mind active while on a long hike. Instead of your regular walk along the trail, pretend that the ground is hot lava, and the safe zones are the rocks and roots along the trail. Try jumping from rock to rock for as long as you can without falling in the lava.
This game is particularly enjoyable for children. However, it should be done with caution as it can be easy to slip, fall or twist your ankle if you are not careful. Be sure to play this game safely and do not jump further than you can handle.
14. Climb A Tree
Climbing a tree is another way to break up a hike and enjoy some rest time with a view. Find a tree that will provide an open view of the area and spend some time above the rest of the world. The tree itself can be an added physical challenge.
Tree climbing will keep you active on your hike while also providing you with a new perspective of the trail. Before you begin climbing, make sure the tree has sturdy branches that can hold your weight and that you can safely climb the tree.
15. Listen To An Audiobook
If you are hiking alone, consider listening to an audiobook. Rather than listening to music on your hike, take a story or two with you and keep your mind active on the trail. This will facilitate deep thought and allow your mind to expand on your journey.
There are many free audiobooks that you can download ahead of time. Consider picking a book that has nature as its theme. Listening to stories that pair well with the scenery around you can add to your hiking experience.
It should be mentioned that hiking with headphones can limit your ability to hear your surroundings, especially potential wildlife, which is important to listen for when hiking in the wild. For this reason, it is suggested to listen aloud from your device or consider trying out AfterShokz Aeropex bone conduction headphones (link to check the price on Amazon). These are bone conduction headphones that do not sit directly in the ears, making it so you can still hear the environment around you at the same time.
The AfterShokz Aeropex is featured in our article Top 10 Best Headphones/Earphones For Hiking.
16. Make Art With Natural Supplies
There are many ways to create art with natural elements. Enjoy creating natural art supplies like paints and clays with items you find along your hike. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll be surprised to see what you can make.
A benefit to using natural art supplies is that you do not have to lug around traditional art supplies adding unnecessary weight to your pack. In addition, some paints and supplies may be harmful to the environment, so opting for a natural method can reduce negative impacts to the wild.
A few ways of making natural art supplies are by using mud as face paint and crushing up different kinds of leaves to make pastes. You can also use tree bark, seashells, rocks, and twigs for making art in the wilderness. Making your own supplies will encourage you to be creative and think outside the box while hiking.
17. Practice Yoga
Undoubtedly, yoga is an activity that everyone can practice and aids in the recovery of your hiking adventures. It is excellent for stretching out your body after a day on the trail and helps keep you agile for the next day. While yoga can be physically challenging, it has an incredible impact on your mental and physical state, making it a great way to reset and/or start a day.
Yoga outdoors is low impact and can be done almost anywhere, making it a highly encouraged hiking activity. While using a yoga mat is encouraged, it does not require any equipment. You can even use trees to help keep your balance as you stretch out your body. Yoga can be done while on the trail or after a long day once you have set up camp.
18. Go Swimming
If you are hiking along a trail near a body of water, consider breaking up a hike with a quick dip. For those who love to swim or enjoy dipping their toes in the water, this is an exceptional time to enjoy a snack break or cool off.
Swimming is great for your muscles and will allow you to sleep easy at night after a long day of hiking. It is also one of the only ways you can shower while on a trail, so take advantage if you have the chance. If you are lucky enough to have some flowing water on your hike, take advantage!
19. Geocaching
Geocaching is growing in popularity and can provide hours of entertainment while on your hike. It is excellent for hiking because you do not need any other special equipment other than a GPS device (link to check the price at REI), and you can do it just about anywhere.
This is somewhat similar to a game of hide and seek, except instead of finding people, you are searching for hidden treasures along the trails. The premise is simple, hide an item and mark the location with GPS coordinates. Next, using clues and coordinates, let the rest of your group find it. There are endless things you can geocache on a hike. You can even consider going to the Geocaching website to find games already created in your area.
20. Bring Your Dog
Bringing your pup on a hike can add to your hiking experience. Not only does it make the hike more enjoyable, but it makes your pet happy and gives them exercise. This is a great way to bond with your pup while enjoying some sunshine on a beautiful hike.
While it is exciting to take your dog exploring with you, be sure to research if the trails are dog-friendly. Many National parks do not allow pets or require them to be on a leash at all times. In addition, ensure your pup is prepared for the distance of your hike and has food, water, and a good spot to rest at night. Your dog can be a wonderful trail companion to keep you company during a long hiking trip.
21. Plan Your Next Hike
Planning your next hiking trip while the joys of hiking are still fresh in your mind is the best way to stay motivated. You will be inspired to take on new challenges and explore more places. Along with that, you will have a better understanding of what you want out of your next hike while you are still on the trails.
If you run into other hikers, ask them if they have any recommended trails for you to explore next. This is a superb way to discover new hikes and potentially meet new hiking pals.
Final Thoughts
Hiking is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This list of top 21 things to do while hiking is great for anyone looking to spruce up their next trip or can be used to help persuade your friends and family members to get outdoors with you. If you are on a long trek or an overnight hike, staying active and engaged throughout your time on the trail is recommended. These are just a few great ways to keep busy while you’re enjoying nature and the world around you.
