Let’s face it: if we were strictly creating a list of songs about the act of hiking, it would be a very short one. Thankfully, hiking is about more than just walking—it’s about adventure, connecting with nature, and embracing the journey. With that in mind, this list stretches the theme to include songs that inspire you to hike, keep you motivated on the trail, or simply make a great playlist for your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re scaling peaks, strolling through forests, or planning your next trek, these 37 songs about hiking are here to set the mood.
Be sure to check out the Songs About Hiking Playlist at the bottom of this page.
Best Songs That Work for Hiking
1. “Canyon Moon” – Harry Styles
Lyric Sample: “Underneath the canyon moon, I’ll be waiting for you.”
This whimsical tune evokes the peaceful solitude of hiking under a glowing moon. Its calming rhythm and picturesque imagery make it an ideal companion for a sunset hike.
2. “Send Me On My Way” – Rusted Root
Lyric Sample: “Send me on my way, on my way.”
With its playful rhythm and uplifting lyrics, this song inspires the joy of starting a new hiking adventure. Its cheerful energy can give you an extra boost on the trail.
3. “Walk Away” – James Gang
Lyric Sample: “Seems to me, you don’t want to talk about it.”
This rock classic’s upbeat groove will keep your pace steady as you move through challenging terrain. It’s perfect for shaking off stress and focusing on the journey ahead.
4. “On Top of the World” – Imagine Dragons
Lyric Sample: “I’m on top of the world, hey!”
This celebratory anthem captures the feeling of conquering a peak, both literally and figuratively, during a hike. It’s a perfect addition to any Songs About Hiking playlist for that victorious summit moment.
5. “Take a Walk” – Passion Pit
Lyric Sample: “Take a walk, take a walk, take a walk.”
This indie hit pairs its infectious beat with lyrics that encourage movement and exploration. Its motivating vibe makes it an excellent choice for powering through long trails.
6. “Footsteps” – Pearl Jam
Lyric Sample: “Footsteps in the hall, it was you.”
This hauntingly reflective track captures the weight of emotional journeys and past struggles. Its somber tone pairs well with quiet, introspective hikes where the surroundings encourage deep thought.
7. “The Long and Winding Road” – The Beatles
Lyric Sample: “The long and winding road that leads to your door.”
This reflective ballad mirrors the contemplative mood of a meandering trail. Its serene tone pairs beautifully with quiet hikes through scenic landscapes.
8. “Lovely Day” – Bill Withers
Lyric Sample: “Then I look at you, and the world’s all right with me.”
This soulful classic celebrates the beauty of life’s simple moments. Its uplifting vibe is perfect for enjoying those tranquil, awe-inspiring views on the trail.
9. “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” – The Sound of Music Soundtrack
Lyric Sample: “Climb every mountain, ford every stream.”
This iconic tune is a timeless call to overcome obstacles and seek adventure. Its inspiring message pairs perfectly with the determination it takes to conquer steep hikes.
10. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” – The Proclaimers
Lyric Sample: “I’m gonna be the man who’s coming home.”
This energetic and upbeat anthem perfectly complements a long hike. Its driving rhythm and lyrics about perseverance make it a great motivational track for pushing through those long miles on the trail.
You can also find “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” on the Funniest Songs for Guys to Sing at Karaoke list!
11. “Rise” – Eddie Vedder
Lyric Sample: “Gonna rise up, find my direction magnetically.”
Vedder’s acoustic gem encourages introspection and finding strength in simplicity. Its soothing melody is perfect for peaceful moments of self-reflection on the trail.
12. “Wide Open Spaces” – Dixie Chicks
Lyric Sample: “She needs wide open spaces, room to make her big mistakes.”
This anthem celebrates freedom and the call of the open outdoors. It’s a natural fit for hikes through expansive landscapes and endless skies.
13. “Mountain Song” – Jane’s Addiction
Lyric Sample: “Comin’ down the mountain.”
This gritty rock anthem channels the energy of a thrilling descent after a rewarding climb. Its dynamic tempo matches the adrenaline rush of heading back down the trail.
14. “Rocky Mountain High” – John Denver
Lyric Sample: “He was born in the summer of his 27th year.”
John Denver’s ode to the Rockies captures the beauty and serenity of the mountains. It’s a must-have for any playlist dedicated to outdoor exploration.
“Rocky Mountain High” can also be found on the Best Songs About Nature list!
15. “Walk On” – U2
Lyric Sample: “Walk on, walk on, what you got, they can’t steal it.”
This powerful anthem encourages perseverance and inner strength. Its motivating lyrics can help you push through those last, tough miles on a challenging hike.
16. “Mountain Jam” – The Allman Brothers Band
Lyric Sample: Instrumental
With its free-flowing improvisation, this track perfectly mirrors the boundless energy of nature. It’s ideal for hikes that call for an open mind and adventurous spirit.
17. “Life Is a Highway” – Tom Cochrane
Lyric Sample: “Life is a highway, I want to ride it all night long.”
While more road-trip than trail, this upbeat tune matches the adventurous spirit of hiking. It’s a fun addition for any playlist celebrating life’s journey.
18. “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves
Lyric Sample: “I’m walking on sunshine, whoa, and don’t it feel good!”
Few songs match the pure joy of this classic track. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up for sunny hikes that leave you smiling with every step.
19. “Old Pine” – Ben Howard
Lyric Sample: “Hot sand on toes, cold sand in sleeping bags.”
Ben Howard’s earthy lyrics and gentle melody transport you to the tranquility of the great outdoors. It’s a perfect companion for serene woodland trails.
20. “One Foot” – Walk the Moon
Lyric Sample: “One foot in front of the other.”
This track’s upbeat energy and motivational lyrics are perfect for keeping your momentum on the trail. It’s a reminder to focus on each step, especially during tough climbs.
21. “Going Up the Country” – Canned Heat
Lyric Sample: “I’m going up the country, baby don’t you wanna go?”
This bluesy classic captures the free-spirited vibe of escaping into nature. Its easygoing rhythm fits perfectly with a laid-back hike through rolling hills.
22. “Ends of the Earth” – Lord Huron
Lyric Sample: “To the ends of the earth, would you follow me?”
Dreamy and adventurous, this song inspires wanderlust and the desire to explore uncharted paths. It’s a great pick for hikes that lead you far off the beaten trail.
23. “Walking in Memphis” – Marc Cohn
Lyric Sample: “Walking in Memphis, but do I really feel the way I feel?”
This soulful track blends reflection with a steady rhythm, making it a great choice for thoughtful moments on a long hike. Its contemplative tone pairs well with quiet trails.
24. “Mountain Sound” – Of Monsters and Men
Lyric Sample: “Hold your horses now, we sleep until the sun goes down.”
This indie anthem captures the wonder of mountain landscapes and the adventures they inspire. Its upbeat yet ethereal vibe is perfect for energizing your journey.
25. “Adventure of a Lifetime” – Coldplay
Lyric Sample: “Turn your magic on, to me she’d say.”
This lively track celebrates the joy of discovery and living in the moment. Its infectious energy is great for hikes that feel like a personal adventure.
26. “Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin
Lyric Sample: “There’s a feeling I get when I look to the west.”
This rock classic combines introspection with a sense of journey, perfectly mirroring the experience of a challenging hike. Its iconic buildup feels like climbing to a spectacular summit.
Check out our full “Stairway to Heaven” lyrics breakdown.
27. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
Lyric Sample: “Ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough.”
This uplifting duet is a reminder of perseverance and determination. It’s an excellent addition to any hiking playlist, especially for tackling tough ascents.
28. “Rivers and Roads” – The Head and the Heart
Lyric Sample: “Rivers and roads, rivers and roads, rivers ’til I reach you.”
This heartfelt ballad evokes the longing and beauty of traveling through nature. It’s a reflective choice for peaceful hikes or journeys with a deeper meaning.
29. “Will Ye Go, Lassie, Go?” – The Corries
Lyric Sample: “Will you go, lassie, go? And we’ll all go together.”
This traditional folk tune celebrates the natural beauty of the mountains. Its timeless melody feels right at home on a scenic hiking trail.
30. “Home” – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Lyric Sample: “Home, let me come home, home is wherever I’m with you.”
This folksy anthem is about finding peace and comfort, whether in nature or with loved ones. Its cheerful energy makes it great for a lighthearted hiking day.
31. “The Good Life” – OneRepublic
Lyric Sample: “Oh, this has gotta be the good life.”
This uplifting track celebrates living in the moment and appreciating life’s adventures. It’s a perfect match for the joy of hiking through breathtaking landscapes.
32. “Into the Wild” – LP
Lyric Sample: “Somebody left the gate open, you know we got lost on the way.”
This track captures the essence of adventure and the desire to break free, making it an excellent addition to a hiking playlist. Its energetic tempo and themes of exploration fit perfectly with the spirit of wandering through the wild.
33. “Walk This Way” – Aerosmith
Lyric Sample: “Walk this way, talk this way.”
This classic rock hit brings an upbeat, swaggering energy to your hike. It’s a great pick for energizing moments when you need a boost on the trail.
Check out our full “Walk This Way” lyrics breakdown.
34. “I Walk the Line” – Johnny Cash
Lyric Sample: “I find it very, very easy to be true.”
This introspective song pairs well with the solitude and reflection of a long hike. Its steady rhythm is ideal for setting a calm, contemplative pace.
35. “Wagon Wheel” – Old Crow Medicine Show
Lyric Sample: “Rock me, mama, like a wagon wheel.”
With its laid-back energy, this folk favorite is a great fit for rustic trails. It’s perfect for casual hikes through the countryside.
36. “Walk” – Foo Fighters
Lyric Sample: “I’m learning to walk again.”
This empowering track captures the idea of starting fresh and moving forward. Its driving rhythm is great for powering through a challenging climb.
37. “Mountain Greenery” – Ella Fitzgerald
Lyric Sample: “In a mountain greenery, where God paints the scenery.”
This charming song celebrates the simplicity and serenity of nature, making it a perfect track for hikes in the mountains or countryside. Its joyful, carefree spirit is ideal for enjoying the natural beauty of your surroundings.
The Soundtrack of the Trail: Why Hiking Songs Hit the Right Notes
Hiking is more than a physical activity—it’s a journey of discovery, both outward and inward. Songs about hiking resonate because they capture the spirit of adventure, perseverance, and connection to the natural world that hiking embodies. Whether they focus on climbing mountains, following winding roads, or simply moving forward step by step, they mirror the emotional highs and lows of a long trek.
Music has a way of amplifying moments, and these tracks do just that for hikers. From energizing beats to reflective melodies, they provide a soundtrack for the trail, making each step more meaningful. Whether you’re summiting a peak, strolling through a quiet forest, or pausing to take in the view, the right song can turn an ordinary hike into a transformative experience.
Conclusion
Hiking isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s about savoring the journey. The 37 songs on this list capture the essence of exploration and offer something for every type of hiker. Whether you need motivation to tackle your next summit or simply want a great soundtrack for your trek, these songs have you covered. After all, you need great hiking music just as much as you need great hiking gear—both are essential for making the most of your outdoor adventure.
So grab your boots, hit the trail, and let these songs inspire you along the way. They’ll remind you to appreciate the beauty of nature, the power of perseverance, and the joy of simply moving forward.
Be sure to check out our other “Songs About…” lists, like our page on the Best Songs About Nature.
