The fresh air, stunning vistas, and physical exercise are just the beginning. With a bit of creativity and the right strategy, you can actually get paid to hike.
In this post, we’ll be turning your love for hiking into a profitable career path.
Whether you dream of exploring national parks or sharing your hiking experience on social media, there are numerous ways to monetise your passion for the trails.
In this post, we’ll explore a terrific opportunity on how you can make money trail hiking. From leveraging social media to starting your own business. Let’s dive into the details!
This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I personally use and believe will add value to my readers.
Ways to Get Paid to Hike:
1. Social Media Influencing
Social media is one of the best creative ways to share your epic adventure. It has opened up a world of opportunities for hikers. This side hustle can take a lot of work but by sharing your outdoor experience, tips, and stunning photos, you can build a following and easily monetise your content. Whether you’re showcasing the beauty of the Pacific Crest Trail or sharing your experience as a wildland firefighter, there’s an audience eager to follow your journey.
How to Start:
- Choose Your Platforms: Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are great for visual content. Share a captivating 60-second video of your hikes and engage with your audience through captivating stories and photos.
- Create Engaging Content: Post regularly, share your hiking adventures, gear reviews, and tips. Use hashtags like #TrailLife and #AdventureAwaits to reach a wider audience.
- Grow Your Following: Engage with your audience, collaborate with other influencers, and participate in hiking challenges and trends. Authenticity and passion are key to building a loyal following.
- Monetise: Partner with outdoor brands, offer sponsored posts, and use affiliate marketing links to earn commissions on products you recommend. With dedication and creativity, you can turn your passion for hiking into a lucrative career.
2. Blogging and Vlogging
If you love storytelling, consider starting a hiking blog or YouTube channel. Share your adventures, trail reviews, and gear recommendations with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re chronicling your thru-hike or sharing tips for tackling the Tahoe Rim Trail, there’s an audience eager to hear your story.
How to Start:
- Set Up Your Blog/Channel: Choose a catchy name and niche for your blog or channel. Set up a self hosted site with Bluehost. Whether you’re focusing on long-distance trails or highlighting specific regions like the Tahoe Trail, make sure your content stands out.
- Content Creation: Write blog posts or create videos about your hiking experiences, gear reviews, and outdoor adventures. Share practical tips and advice for fellow hikers, and don’t forget to include stunning photos and videos to bring your adventures to life.
- SEO and Keywords: Use SEO strategies to attract organic traffic to your blog or channel. Research keywords related to hiking, outdoor activities, and specific trails like the Pacific Crest Trail and the Long Trail to optimise your content for search engines.
- Monetise: Once you’ve built a loyal audience, monetise your blog or channel through ads, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing. You can also offer premium content or courses to your audience for an additional source of income.
For more information on how to do this check out my related posts:
- 6 Ways to Make Money Online While Travelling the Globe (2024)
- The Best Low-Cost Online Side Hustles for Students (2024)
3. Guiding Tours and Offering Hiking Services
Turn your hiking expertise into a business by offering guided tours or personalised hiking services. Whether you’re leading group hikes or offering one-on-one coaching for aspiring thru-hikers, there’s a demand for experienced guides and instructors.
How to Start:
- Get Certified: Consider certifications like Wilderness First Aid and Leave No Trace to enhance your credibility as a hiking guide. The more certifications you have, the more confident your clients will feel in your abilities.
- Create Packages: Develop a range of hiking tours and services to cater to different skill levels and interests. Whether you’re leading day hikes in state parks or organising multi-day treks along the Appalachian Trail, offer packages that appeal to a variety of clients. For a detailed example of how to achieve this, I highly recommend checking out iremtour.
- Market Your Services: Use social media, local advertising, and partnerships with outdoor retailers to promote your hiking tours and services. Target specific demographics, such as college students or outdoor enthusiasts, and highlight the unique experiences you offer. Again, check out @irrremerdem for a fantastic example of creating captivating and inspiring images for their audience.
- Monetise: Charge for your services based on factors like duration, group size, and included amenities. You can also sell related merchandise like branded gear and apparel to supplement your income.
4. Selling Photography and Art
If you have a talent for photography or art, you can sell your creations inspired by the trails you hike. Whether you’re capturing stunning landscapes on the Pacific Crest Trail or painting scenes from your favorite national parks, there’s a market for outdoor-inspired artwork.
How to Start:
- Build a Portfolio: Showcase your best hiking photos or artwork on your website or social media profiles. Highlight your unique style and perspective to attract potential buyers.
- Online Presence: Create an online store on platforms like Etsy, Society6, or your own website to sell your prints and products. Use high-quality images and detailed descriptions to entice customers.
- Market Your Work: Use social media, participate in art fairs, and collaborate with other artists to promote your photography and art. Consider offering limited edition prints or exclusive collections to create a sense of urgency and exclusivity.
- Monetise: Set prices for your prints and products based on factors like size, materials, and exclusivity. You can also offer custom commissions or licensing options for commercial use to generate additional income.
5. Working in National Parks
Many national parks offer seasonal and full-time jobs that allow you to live and work in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Whether you’re serving as a park ranger at Yosemite National Park or working as a trail builder in the Grand Canyon, there are opportunities to get paid to hike while making a difference in conservation efforts.
How to Start:
- Research Opportunities: Explore job listings on national park websites, government job boards, and outdoor industry websites. Look for positions that align with your skills, interests, and career goals.
- Apply: I would also recommend tailoring your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Emphasise your passion for hiking, outdoor recreation, and environmental conservation to stand out as a candidate.
- Types of Jobs: Consider a wide range of roles within the national park system, including park ranger, interpretive guide, trail maintenance worker, and visitor services assistant. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore different opportunities to find the right fit for you.
The Allure of Trail Hiking:
Trail hiking is more than just a pastime; it’s a way of life for many. Here’s why I find it so captivating:
- Connection with Nature: Firstly, hiking allows you to immerse yourself in the real world, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re traversing the Pacific Crest Trail or the Appalachian Trail, each step brings you closer to Mother Nature’s natural wonders.
- Physical and Mental Health Benefits: In the long run, regular hiking can improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and reduce stress. It’s a full-body workout that’s also therapeutic for the mind. Plus, the challenge of long-distance trails like the Tahoe Rim Trail or the Long Trail offers a real challenge for both body and mind.
- Exploration and Adventure: Hiking trails often lead to breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, and a sense of adventure. Each trail offers a unique experience and story, whether you’re hiking through the snow melts of the Continental Divide Trail or enjoying the vibrant autumn foliage along the North Carolina trails.
- Community and Solitude: Hiking can be a social activity, offering a chance to meet like-minded people. Alternatively, it can be a solitary journey, providing time for personal reflection. Whether you’re part of the thru-hiking community or prefer the solitude of wilderness areas, there’s a place for everyone on the trails.
Conclusion
Turning your passion for hiking into a source of income is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding.
Whether you choose to share your experiences on social media, start a hiking-related business, or work in national parks, there are numerous ways to make money trail hiking.
Remember to stay authentic, invest in quality gear, and continuously learn and adapt. The greatest hiking trails are calling, and they might just lead you to a profitable and fulfilling career. So, lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and start exploring the endless possibilities of getting paid to hike. The adventure of a lifetime awaits!
Please note that the information provided in this post is for educational and informational purposes only. Any actions taken based on the content of this post are at the reader’s own discretion and risk.
