The mist hovers eerily over the narrow cliffside trail as the rising sun peeks through the clouds. You pause for a moment, heart pounding with exhilaration, and scan the breathtaking valley vista unfolding below. Is this a future snapshot from your everyday 9-to-5 office job? Probably not! But for those who make hiking their career, scenes like this represent just another Rad day in the office.
So can hiking be a job? Absolutely! While traditionally viewed as a hobby or pastime, more and more outdoor enthusiasts are now taking their passion for traversing trails and climbing peaks to the professional level. Whether leading groups as a guide, designing new routes as a trailblazer, or inspiring others through adventure journalism, there are more ways than ever before to get paid for putting one foot in front of the other.
Of course, chasing waterfalls and summiting mountains for a living brings unique rewards and challenges. But for the right person with the right expertise and mindset, the answer to “can hiking be a career?” is a definitive yes. The time has come to transform your favorite pastime into your full-time dream job. With the right expertise, experience and grit to grind out grueling inclines, discovering just how far a hiking career can take you may be closer than the next trailhead.
Table of Contents
Can Hiking Be A career? 15 amazing jobs awaiting
Yes, there are a number of potential jobs and careers related to hiking that allow you to get paid for your passion for the outdoors:
Here are 15 job ideas for hikers to consider:
- Hiking Guide – Lead day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips for outdoor companies or as an independent guide.
- Outdoor Educator – Teach outdoor skills, environmental science, and backcountry ethics at schools, camps or parks.
- Park Ranger – Work for national, state or local parks to maintain trail, educate visitors, and search and rescue.
- Adventure Tour Guide – Lead multi-sport trips involving hiking, rafting, climbing, mountain biking etc., for adventure travel companies.
- Outdoor Retail – Leverage your gear expertise at REI, EMS, or local outfitters. Opportunities in sales, marketing, and purchasing.
- Running Outdoor Youth Programs – Inspire youth as a backcountry camp counselor, at-risk youth guide, or wilderness therapy leader.
- Freelance Writing – Publish trail stories, hiking advice columns, and outdoor gear reviews.
- Conservation Work – Help maintain wilderness areas through trail work, habitat restoration, and park beautification projects.
- Outdoor photographer/videographer – Capture stunning nature imagery to stock sites, market destinations, and outdoor brands.
- Motivational Speaker – Inspire others through keynotes and talks on pursuing dreams, resilience, and overcoming adversity.
- Outdoor/adventure therapy – Combine clinical and wilderness skills to lead clients on healing backpacking journeys.
- Guidebook author – Write hiking, backpacking, or outdoor activity guidebooks for major publishers.
- Outdoor services business owner – Start a guiding, outfitting, gear rental, skills school, or other outdoor services company.
- Outdoor product designer – Help design hiking gear and outdoor products drawing from your thru-hiking experiences.
- Environmental advocacy – Campaign, organize events, or lobby for conservation groups and environmental non-profits.
With passion and ingenuity, there are many ways to turn a personal hiking hobby into a viable career path in the outdoors industry. The trails provide both recreation and opportunity.
Get paid to hike on trail ─ Exploring Career Paths
Conservationist: Protecting Our Natural World
As a conservationist, you’ll work to preserve, manage, and protect natural resources and ecosystems. This career often involves hiking to remote locations to monitor and study wildlife, habitats, and environmental conditions. A background in ecology, biology, or environmental science is typically required, along with a passion for nature and a commitment to sustainable practices.Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related field
- Knowledge of conservation principles, practices, and legislation
- Experience in field research, data collection, and analysis
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in relevant software and technology
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $35,000 to $45,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $45,000 to $65,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $65,000 to $85,000+ per year
Resources:
- The Nature Conservancy
- National Ocean Service
- National Geographic Society
- The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Wildland Firefighter: Consider a Career Combating Forest Fires
Wildland firefighters play a crucial role in preventing and combating wildfires, often hiking long distances through rough terrain to reach affected areas. They work in challenging conditions to protect natural resources, property, and human lives. High physical fitness, mental toughness, and specialized training are required to excel in this demanding yet rewarding career.Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Physical fitness and ability to pass a fitness test
- Completion of specialized wildland firefighting training courses
- Ability to work in challenging environments and under extreme conditions
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $25,000 to $35,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $35,000 to $50,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $50,000 to $70,000+ per year
Resources:
- Office of Wildland Fire
- Forest Service, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
- Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
Forest Ranger: Become a park ranger to protect Wilderness
Forest rangers work to protect and manage public lands, including national parks, forests, and other natural areas. They patrol hiking trails, enforce regulations, educate visitors, and perform search and rescue operations when needed. A background in natural resource management or a related field and excellent communication and problem-solving skills are often required.Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management, forestry, environmental science, or a related field
- Law enforcement training and certification (in some cases)
- Knowledge of park regulations, wildlife management, and environmental education
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Valid driver’s license
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $30,000 to $40,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $40,000 to $55,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $55,000 to $75,000+ per year
Resources:
Outdoor Guide: Lead the backpacking trips
As an outdoor guide, you’ll lead groups on hiking and backpacking trips, sharing your knowledge and passion for the outdoors. You’ll teach essential skills, such as navigation and first aid while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of your clients. Strong interpersonal skills, wilderness certifications, and extensive experience are crucial for success in this role.Job Requirements
- Extensive experience in hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor activities
- Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and other relevant certifications
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to teach and demonstrate outdoor skills
- Background in outdoor education, recreation, or a related field (preferred)
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $20,000 to $30,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $30,000 to $45,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $45,000 to $60,000+ per year
Resources:
Photographer: Get Sponsored for Capturing Nature’s Beauty
Outdoor photographers use their creative talents to capture stunning images of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Hiking often plays a significant role in this career, as photographers venture into remote locations to find the perfect shot. A strong portfolio, technical expertise, and a keen eye for detail are essential for success in this competitive field.
Job Requirements
- Strong portfolio showcasing outdoor and nature photography
- Technical expertise in photography equipment and editing software
- Ability to travel and hike to remote locations
- Good communication and networking skills
- Persistence and dedication to build a successful career
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $25,000 to $35,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $35,000 to $55,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $55,000 to $75,000+ per year
Resources:
Trail Worker: Maintaining Our Pathways
Trail workers are responsible for constructing, maintaining, and improving hiking trails. They ensure that trails are safe, sustainable, and enjoyable for all users. This physically demanding job often involves hiking to remote work sites, clearing brush, building structures, and repairing trail damage. A strong work ethic, physical fitness, and a love for the outdoors are essential traits for trail workers.Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Physical fitness and ability to perform manual labor
- Experience with trail construction and maintenance tools and techniques
- Strong work ethic and love for the outdoors
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $20,000 to $30,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $30,000 to $40,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $40,000 to $50,000+ per year
Resources:
Writer: Start a blog and Share Stories of thru-hiking
Outdoor writers use storytelling skills to share their hiking experiences, provide trail recommendations, and review gear. They may contribute articles to magazines, write guidebooks, or maintain their own blogs. A strong command of language, excellent research skills, and a unique perspective on hiking are essential for success in this field.Job Requirements
- Strong command of language and storytelling skills
- Excellent research and fact-checking abilities
- Experience in outdoor activities and hiking
- Ability to write engaging, informative, and shareable content
- Networking skills to build relationships with publications and editors
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $25,000 to 35,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $35,000 to $50,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $50,000 to $70,000+ per year
Resources:
Vlogging and YouTube: Showcasing Your Hiking Passion to the World
In the digital age, vlogging and running a YouTube channel have become increasingly popular ways for hiking enthusiasts to share their passion with a global audience. Creating engaging and informative content can turn your love for hiking into a profitable venture.
Job Requirements
- Experience in video production, editing, and storytelling
- Strong on-camera presence and communication skills
- Expertise in outdoor activities and hiking
- Consistent schedule for content creation and audience engagement
- Familiarity with social media platforms and algorithms
Financial Scope
- Earnings can vary greatly depending on channel size, views, sponsorships, and other factors
- Entry-level earnings: $10,000 to $30,000 per year
- Mid-career earnings: $30,000 to $60,000 per year
- Experienced earnings: $60,000 to $100,000+ per year
Resources:
Adventure Travel Planner: Crafting Unforgettable Journeys
Job Requirements
- Extensive knowledge of hiking destinations and outdoor activities
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Background in travel planning, tourism, or a related field (preferred)
- Ability to create customized itineraries and manage logistics
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $30,000 to $40,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $40,000 to $55,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $55,000 to $75,000+ per year
Resources:
Park Naturalist: Educating and Inspiring
Park naturalists educate visitors about the natural environment, wildlife, and history of parks and protected areas. They often lead guided hikes and interpretive programs, sharing their knowledge and passion for the outdoors with diverse audiences. A background in environmental education, ecology, or a related field is typically required, as well as excellent communication and public speaking skills. Employment opportunities can be found with national, state, and local parks, as well as nature centres and environmental organizations.Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, ecology, or a related field
- Excellent communication and public speaking skills
- Knowledge of local ecosystems, wildlife, and park history
- Experience in developing and leading interpretive programs
- Ability to work with diverse audiences and age groups
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $30,000 to $40,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $40,000 to $50,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $50,000 to $70,000+ per year
Resources:
Outdoor Education Instructor: Teaching Life Skills in Nature’s Classroom
Outdoor education instructors teach outdoor skills, environmental education, and team-building activities at outdoor schools, camps, or retreat centres. They often incorporate hiking and other outdoor pursuits into their programs, providing immersive and hands-on learning experiences for participants of all ages. A background in education, recreation, or a related field is often required, along with wilderness certifications and a passion for teaching in the outdoors. Job opportunities can be found with schools, non-profit organizations, and private outdoor education providers.Job Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in education, recreation, or a related field
- Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and other relevant certifications
- Experience in teaching outdoor skills, environmental education, and team-building activities
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work with diverse age groups and learning styles
Financial Scope
- Entry-level salary: $25,000 to $35,000 per year
- Mid-career salary: $35,000 to $45,000 per year
- Experienced salary: $45,000 to $60,000+ per year
Resources:
Please note that the salary ranges are estimates and can vary greatly depending on location, experience, and employer.5 Lucrative Outdoor Careers for Hiking Enthusiasts
| Job Title | Estimated Income | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain Guide | $50,000-$75,000 | Extensive hiking experience, wilderness first aid training, knowledge of terrain and navigation |
| Hiking Blogger/Influencer | $40,000-$100,000 | Large social media following, photography/videography skills, branding/sponsorship experience |
| Wilderness Therapist | $60,000-$90,000 | Mental health degree, wilderness therapy training, hiking experience |
| National Park Ranger | $40,000-$70,000 | Bachelor’s degree, law enforcement or wilderness training |
| Hiking Tour Operator | $45,000-$80,000 | Business/hospitality experience, knowledge of hiking routes and logistics |
Real-Life Hiking Heroes: Turning Passion into Profit
There’s no shortage of inspiring examples of hikers who have successfully transformed their passion for hiking into a thriving career. Let’s take a look at some real-life hiking heroes who have made their mark in the world of professional hiking:
Jennifer Pharr Davis Record-Breaking Trailblazer
Jennifer Pharr Davis has turned her love for hiking into a successful career as an author, speaker, and founder of the Blue Ridge Hiking Company. She has hiked over 14,000 miles across six continents and set a speed record on the Appalachian Trail in 2011. Jennifer’s accomplishments have earned her recognition as a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, and she continues to inspire others with her passion and expertise.
Andrew Skurka Adventurer, Speaker, and Guide
Andrew Skurka is a renowned adventurer, speaker, and guide who has completed several impressive long-distance hiking and backpacking trips. His achievements include the 6,875-mile Great Western Loop and the 7,775-mile Sea-to-Sea Route. Andrew has written for major publications, authored a guidebook, and offers guided trips and educational programs. His adventurous spirit and expert knowledge have earned him numerous accolades, including National Geographic Adventurer of the Year.
Liz Thomas Long-Distance Hiker, Author, and Speaker
Liz Thomas, also known as “Snorkel,” is a long-distance hiker, author, and speaker who has hiked over 20,000 miles on trails across the United States. She held the women’s unsupported speed record on the Appalachian Trail in 2011 and is the author of “Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-Hike.” In addition to her hiking achievements, Liz advocates for diversity and inclusion in the outdoors and shares her knowledge through workshops and presentations.
Chris Burkard Adventure Photographer and Filmmaker
Chris Burkard is an award-winning adventure photographer and filmmaker known for his stunning images of remote landscapes and extreme sports. Chris’s love for hiking and the outdoors has taken him on countless adventures around the globe. Chris’ works have been exhibited in popular magazines such as National Geographic and The New York Times. He spreads his expertise and enthusiasm by conducting workshops, delivering public speeches, and engaging with his followers on social media
These hikers, who are real-life heroes, have transformed their love for hiking into successful careers, demonstrating that it is feasible to earn a living by pursuing your passion. Their experiences can inspire and motivate those who aspire to become professional hikers and embark on th
Pros and Cons of a Hiking Career
Here are some of the main pros and cons of pursuing a career in hiking:
Pros:
- Time Outdoors – A huge draw is spending your working hours in nature rather than in an office. Being immersed in fresh air and beautiful scenery is a major perk.
- Adventure – Guiding allows you to explore new terrain, constantly see new places, and have unique experiences like climbing peaks. It brings variety and adventure to each day.
- Health Benefits – Hiking regularly provides excellent exercise, improving strength, endurance and overall fitness. Being active outweighs the risks of a sedentary job.
- Sharing Knowledge – Leading trips allows you to share your passion for hiking with others. Teaching trail skills can be very rewarding.
- Flexible Schedule – Hiking guides often make their own schedule rather than 9-5 hours. Freedom and flexibility can provide better work-life balance.
Cons:
- Inconsistent Income – Income fluctuates seasonally and is based on bookings. Slow periods may provide unstable income compared to a salaried desk job.
- Physically Demanding – The challenging terrain, long miles, and heavy pack weights wear the body down over time, leading to injuries. Long-term health issues are a risk factor.
- Lack of Benefits – Most guiding jobs do not include benefits like insurance, retirement savings plans, sick leave etc., offered by many office jobs.
- Outdoors Risks – the wilderness poses risks like getting lost, wild animal encounters, bad weather etc. Safety management is a 24/7 responsibility.
- Solitude – While peaceful sometimes, the isolation and lack of community when guiding multi-day trips can also take a toll and feel isolating.
A hiking career offers unique rewards and experiences for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts. But unstable income, physical challenges, and fewer traditional job benefits are realities to weigh. Finding the right balance can make forging a hiking-focused career deeply fulfilling.
Can Hiking Be a Job? Frequently Asked Questions
How can I turn my passion for hiking into a career?
There are several jobs that involve a lot of hiking time that can allow you to turn your passion into a career. Becoming a hiking guide, outdoor educator, trail maintenance worker, outdoor writer/photographer, guidebook author, or working at an outdoor retailer are options to consider. Finding a job that aligns with your hiking skills and lets you hike regularly is key.
What kind of qualifications are required to pursue a career as an outdoor guide?
To become an outdoor guide, you’ll need extensive hiking experience in different terrains and conditions. Guides need wilderness first aid certification and knowledge of the area’s trails, terrain, flora/fauna. Soft skills like leadership, decision-making, and risk assessment are also valued. Many guides start by working seasonal jobs to gain experience.
Can I make a living as an outdoor photographer or writer?
It is possible but competitive. Build a portfolio of published hiking stories, photos, or books. Pitch to outdoor magazines and publishers. Success requires dedication, consistent work, and exceptional creative skills. Many get started freelancing while having a supplementary job. With persistence, you can find enough steady photography and writing work to make a full-time living.
Are there job opportunities for trail workers and conservationists?
Yes, organizations like the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, state parks, hiking clubs, and conservation corps hire people for building trails, clearing brush, maintaining campsites, and conservation work. These physically demanding seasonal jobs allow you to work outside and hike. With experience, you can progress to leadership and permanent roles.
Can I make money hiking?
There are a few ways to directly make money from hiking: becoming a hiking guide and leading paid trips, writing hiking guidebooks that generate royalties, creating hiking-related products/services, and documenting/selling photos and stories from major thru-hikes. You likely need supplementary income sources, too. But with creativity, you can generate income directly from your hiking adventures.
What do thru-hikers do for a living?
Many thru-hikers take extended leaves from regular jobs to complete long trails. Others work seasonal jobs like guiding, which allows them to hike in summer. Some support their hiking by blogging/vlogging their treks or getting gear sponsorships. But thru-hiking alone doesn’t typically provide full-time income – most rely on other work before, between, and after big hikes.
Can you put hiking on your resume?
Definitely. In skills or hobbies sections, detail hiking accomplishments that showcase relevant hard and soft skills – leadership, endurance, navigational abilities, etc. For outdoor industry jobs, provide additional details on hiking experience. List hobbies to show you have a passion for the outdoors and hiking.
What skills are essential for a hiking and outdoor career?
Key skills include physical fitness/stamina, wilderness first aid training, navigation abilities, leadership qualities, environmental/naturalist expertise, writing/photography talents, business/customer service skills, and flexibility/resilience. A passion for hiking and the outdoors is essential. Develop well-rounded hard and soft skills.
Can I start my own business in the hiking industry?
Yes, you can start a guiding business gear company, write hiking books, offer customized hikes/tours, sell hiking photos, create hiking-related products (apps, gear, etc), or provide other unique services to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Entrepreneurial hikers can definitely tap the growing hiking market.
Are there seasonal or part-time work opportunities in the hiking industry?
Absolutely. Outdoor educators, hiking guides, trail maintenance, and outdoor retail jobs often hire seasonally. Parks, resorts, ranches, and summer camps need seasonal staff. Look for summer, spring break, and holiday gigs that align with peak hiking season. These can supplement income from a regular job or school.
Conclusion
Hiking can indeed be a job, with various career paths available for those passionate about the outdoors. Developing the necessary skills, gaining experience, and networking with professionals can turn your love for hiking into a fulfilling career. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages beforehand to ensure that this path suits you.
References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) – Occupational Outlook Handbook (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/)
- Payscale (https://www.payscale.com/)
- National Park Service (NPS) – Careers (https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/workwithus.htm)
SARAH LEE
Sarah has been hiking for over five years and is passionate about promoting the mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature. She has written several articles on the topic and strongly advocates hiking as a form of therapy. Sarah is also a certified yoga instructor, often incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into her hiking trips. She is dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on trail conditions, difficulty levels, and must-see sights.
SARAH LEE
Sarah has been hiking for over five years and is passionate about promoting the mental and emotional benefits of spending time in nature. She has written several articles on the topic and strongly advocates hiking as a form of therapy. Sarah is also a certified yoga instructor, often incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into her hiking trips. She is dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on trail conditions, difficulty levels, and must-see sights.
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