How to Hike more Epically in 2025

It’s a new year, which means it’s the perfect time to start looking into some outdoor resolutions for 2025. Cnoc Outdoors is providing some inspiration with four themed bundles perfect for helping you dive into a new outdoor hobby (or getting more out of an old one!) in the new year - all at a discounted price! Check out the Day Hiker bundle on our site now with 15% off each item included. 

If you’ve found your way onto this site, chances are you’ve done some day hiking in your life. It’s a classic and easy way to get moving and spend some quality time in the outdoors all in one. But if you’ve been feeling like you’re in a hiking rut, or want to use your day hikes to train for some bigger adventures this year, here’s some tips and tricks to level up your day hikes in 2025!

Get out of your local trail rut

Your favorite local trail is a great resource to have, but if you’re aiming for more epic hiking, it’s time to take some space. Chances are your local trail became your local trail because it was nearby, accessible, and convenient - often the most epic hikes are none of those things. Even if you do truly have an epic local trail, consider branching out and mixing it up. After all, variety is the spice of life! 

Find a good quality GPS app

Having a default navigation app you’re familiar and comfortable with will make the process of researching a trail feel a lot less high stakes. Yes, you should always carry a paper map and a navigation app is not going to mean you shouldn’t do your homework, but there is something really reassuring about seeing your little icon hike along a trail map when you’re exploring a new area.

Shop for passes strategically 

If you plan to hike a lot, especially in more popular areas, you will undoubtedly run into parking and day use fees. It doesn’t take that many trips before buying a seasonal pass becomes the more economical option, so save your money by having those passes ready before the first trip. Research what passes are useful in your area and if there’s any passes that will meet the requirements of multiple locations. An added perk? Purchasing the pass early will incentivize you to hike enough times to make it worth it. 

Find a hiking buddy or hiking group

Finding a hiking buddy who can split research of new trails can make epic hikes more attainable more regularly. The same is even more true with a hiking group. MeetUp.com is a great resource for finding hiking groups, along with social media groups and hiking forums. It’s also worth checking if any of your local gear stores host meet ups! 

Join a Facebook group or forum 

Online groups sharing trail data and current conditions are arguably one of the best uses of the internet. Not only will they help you find and research new trails, you might also find a buddy or group to hike with as well. Oregon Hikers is a forum we love and use constantly (fun fact, Oregon Hikers was the birthplace of Trailkeepers of Oregon!) and chances are there’s a similar forum closer to you. Check Facebook or Reddit to start. 

Try some peak bagging 

One easy way to significantly up the adventure of any hike is to add some summit goals! Aim your hikes in the direction of the top of your nearby mountains. The extra challenge will get you out training more often and a higher effort makes for a higher reward in the end. 

Plan ahead

Some of the most epic trails require special permits. Decide which hikes you’d like to hit this year early and then do your research for any required permits and when those permits may be open. Some hikes and locations may involve lotteries you may end up having to enter a few times before getting your shot.

Happy on your local trail? Not the resolution for you? Check out our other blogs and bundles!