Hiking is a popular activity that many people enjoy, and it’s no surprise that it has inspired many musicians to write songs about it. Whether it’s the feeling of being in nature, the challenge of conquering a mountain, or the camaraderie of hiking with friends, there are many aspects of hiking that make for great songwriting material.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 songs about hiking. These songs come from a variety of genres and time periods, but they all share a common theme: the love of the great outdoors.
Some of the songs on the list are well-known classics, such as John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence.” Others are lesser-known gems that deserve more recognition, such as Dar Williams’ “The Christians and the Pagans” and Amos Lee’s “Colors.”
Each song on the list has something unique to offer, whether it’s a catchy melody, poetic lyrics, or a relatable message. Some songs celebrate the beauty of nature, while others explore the physical and emotional challenges of hiking. Some are upbeat and energetic, while others are reflective and introspective.
No matter what kind of music you enjoy, there’s sure to be a hiking song on this list that will speak to you. So grab your hiking boots, hit the trail, and let these songs inspire you to explore the great outdoors.
1. “Walk Of Life” by Dire Straits
“Walk of Life” by Dire Straits is an upbeat rock song that celebrates the joys of life and encourages listeners to keep moving forward no matter what obstacles they may face.
2. “The Rocky Road to Dublin” by The Dropkick Murphys
“The Rocky Road to Dublin” by The Dropkick Murphys is a fast-paced Irish folk song that tells the story of a traveler’s journey from Dublin to Liverpool.
3. “Old Pine” by Ben Howard
“Old Pine” by Ben Howard is a mellow acoustic song that reflects on the passing of time and the beauty of nature.
4. “Rise” by Eddie Vedder
“Rise” by Eddie Vedder is a powerful and inspirational song that encourages listeners to stand up for what they believe in and fight for their dreams.
5. “I’m Happy When I’m Hiking” by Ian Whitcomb
“I’m Happy When I’m Hiking” by Ian Whitcomb is a playful and lighthearted song that celebrates the simple pleasures of hiking in the great outdoors.
6. “Geronimo” by Sheppard
“Geronimo” by Sheppard is a high-energy pop song that encourages listeners to take risks and pursue their dreams with determination and courage.
7. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
“Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root is an upbeat and catchy song that celebrates the joys of travel and adventure.
8. “Anywhere” by Passenger
“Anywhere” by Passenger is a soulful and introspective song that reflects on the ups and downs of life and the importance of staying positive and hopeful.
9. “Walk this Way” by Run DMC featuring Aerosmith
“Walk this Way” by Run DMC featuring Aerosmith is a classic hip-hop song that fuses rap and rock to create a high-energy and iconic track.
10. “Walkin’ to New Orleans” by Fats Domino
“Walkin’ to New Orleans” by Fats Domino is a classic rock and roll song that celebrates the vibrant and colorful city of New Orleans and the joy of living life to the fullest.
11. “Mountains by Biffy Clyro
“Mountains” by Biffy Clyro is a powerful rock song that speaks to the challenges and rewards of pursuing one’s dreams, using the metaphor of climbing a mountain to represent the struggles and triumphs of life.
12. “Harlem River Blues” by Justin Townes Earle
“Harlem River Blues” by Justin Townes Earle is a soulful and bluesy song that celebrates the vibrancy and energy of New York City while also reflecting on the struggles and hardships that many people face.
13. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers
“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers is an upbeat and catchy pop song that celebrates the power of love and the lengths that people will go to be with the ones they care about.
14. “Oh Louisiana” by Chuck Berry
“Oh Louisiana” by Chuck Berry is a classic rock and roll song that celebrates the beauty and spirit of the state of Louisiana and its unique culture and traditions.
15. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell is a soulful and uplifting song that celebrates the power of love and the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
16. “The Hiking Song” by Kenneth McKellar
“The Hiking Song” by Kenneth McKellar is a charming and folksy song that celebrates the joys of hiking in the great outdoors and the simple pleasures of life.
17. “Going Up The Country” by Canned Heat
“Going Up The Country” by Canned Heat is a classic blues rock song that celebrates the joys of travel and adventure, with lyrics that encourage listeners to leave the city behind and head for the open road.
18. “The Mute” by Radical Face
“The Mute” by Radical Face is a haunting and introspective song that explores themes of isolation and loneliness, with lyrics that speak to the importance of finding connection and community in the world.
19. “Walk On The Wild Side” by Lou Reed
“Walk On The Wild Side” by Lou Reed is a classic rock song that celebrates the vibrant and diverse culture of New York City, with lyrics that pay tribute to the colorful characters who inhabit the city’s streets.
20. “These Boots Were Made For Walkin’” by Nancy Sinatra
“These Boots Were Made For Walkin'” by Nancy Sinatra is a classic pop song with a catchy and playful melody, with lyrics that celebrate the power and independence of women and their ability to take charg