Are you lacing up your hiking boots for an adventure in the great outdoors? Whether you’re heading out on an extended trek or simply taking a stroll through the woods, it’s important to pack some high-energy snacks to keep you going. While a good meal before the hike can help fuel your adventure, the right snacks can make all the difference in helping you go the distance. Here are some of our favorite high-energy snacks to bring along on your hike.
Homemade Trail Mix
An age-old standby for hikers, trail mix is a great source of energy and nutrients, and it’s easy to customize the ingredients to fit your taste and nutritional needs. The key to making a healthy trail mix is to stick to natural, unprocessed ingredients, like raw nuts and seeds, dried fruit, and even some dark chocolate.
Trail mix can be a good source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it a perfect snack for a long hike. It’s also easy to carry in a small resealable bag, so you can easily take a handful whenever you need a boost of energy.
Energy Bars
When you’re short on time and need a quick snack, energy bars are a great solution for hikers. These snacks are designed to provide a quick boost of energy, and they often contain a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Look for energy bars that are made with natural ingredients and low in sugar, and avoid those with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Fruit
Fresh fruit is a great snack for hikers, offering a boost of energy and plenty of flavor. Opt for fruits that are easy to eat on the go, like apples, bananas, and grapes. Apples and bananas are excellent sources of natural sugars, and grapes are especially hydrating. Try slicing your fruit and packing it in a small resealable bag for easy snacking while you hike.
Granola or Muesli
Granola and muesli are another great way to get a healthy dose of energy in between your meals. Look for brands that are made with all-natural ingredients and low in sugar, and avoid those with added oils and preservatives. These snacks are a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, and they’re easy to carry in a small resealable bag.
Hard-boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein, and they’re a great snack for hikers. Boil a few eggs the night before your hike, and pack them in a small resealable bag. The protein and healthy fats in the eggs will help keep you full and energized for hours. Add a little salt and pepper for some extra flavor.
Hummus and Veggies
Hummus is a healthy and delicious snack that is packed with energy and nutrients. Serve it with crisp, fresh vegetables, like carrots, celery, and cucumber, for a satisfying and hydrating snack. Look for simple, all-natural hummus brands that are low in added sugars and preservatives.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of protein and probiotics, making it a great snack for hikers. Look for all-natural yogurt brands that are low in sugar and high in protein and healthy fats. Pack your yogurt in a small resealable bag and top it with your favorite healthy toppings, like nuts and seeds, for an extra boost of energy.
Peanut Butter and Whole Grain Crackers
Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal snack for hikers. Serve it with whole grain crackers for a satisfying and energy-boosting snack. Look for all-natural peanut butter brands that are low in added sugars and preservatives.
Conclusion
When heading out on a hike, it’s important to pack some high-energy snacks to keep you going. Homemade trail mix, energy bars, fruit, granola or muesli, hard-boiled eggs, hummus and veggies, yogurt, and peanut butter with whole grain crackers are all great options for hikers. Look for all-natural, unprocessed snacks that are low in sugar and high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Enjoy your hike and don’t forget to pack some of these snacks to help keep your energy levels up!