The 10 Best Homemade Snacks to Pack for a Hike

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
updated May 1, 2019
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(Image credit: Emma Christensen)

Whether I’m headed out for a short hike or full-day trek, a little something to munch on is always a must. Not just any snack will cut it, though — when I’m active and on the go, I want something that’s easy to pack and eat, gives me a quick boost of energy, and feels at least a little bit wholesome. Here are 10 recipes that fit the bill for a nourishing pick-me-up when I’m on the trail.

1. Smoked Almond Snack Bars

Snack bars are always a good idea when heading out for a hike, whether it’s a short jaunt or a whole-day affair. This version, inspired by KIND bars, is loaded with nuts and seeds and has an irresistible smoky-sweet flavor.

(Image credit: Emma Christensen)

2. How To Make Crispy Roasted Chickpeas in the Oven

Pack a big baggie of crispy roasted chickpeas and you won’t be sorry — it’s a protein-rich snack that’s crunchy, salty, and a nice alternative to nuts.

(Image credit: Brie Passano)

3. No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Cookies

Biting into these cookies mid-hike will feel nothing short of fabulous. They’re packed with a wholesome blend of peanut butter, banana, quinoa flakes, and chocolate chunks (for good measure).

(Image credit: Emma Christensen)

4. Hazelnut-Cocoa Granola Bars with Dried Figs

Granola bars are a great snack choice for hiking. They’re easy to pack, and this version is particularly sturdy. It boasts a mixture of flavors and textures that keep each bite interesting.

(Image credit: Megan Gordon)

5. Deluxe Tropical Trail Mix

Mixed with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and more, delicious things happen when you go beyond traditional GORP for this quintessential hiking snack.

(Image credit: Maria Siriano)

6. Blackberry-Chile Fruit Leather

Want to really win points with your trail buddies? Pack some homemade fruit leather for a sweet snack that’s guaranteed to give you a jolt of sweet energy.

(Image credit: Coco Morante)

7. Carrot Cake Power Bites

When I have a short hike on the schedule, this is the snack I want with me. This two-bite treat is packed with wholesome ingredients, but tastes like the most delicious slice of carrot cake.

(Image credit: Sara Kate Gillingham)

8. Homemade Jerky in the Oven

When the mid-hike hunger hits, you’re going to be so happy you have some chewy jerky in your pack. It’s a protein-rich snack that delivers sustained energy.

(Image credit: Emma Christensen)

9. Whole-Wheat Peanut Butter & Jelly Pockets

Peanut butter and jelly never gets old — especially when you’re out on the trail all day. These pocket sandwiches are easy to pack, easy to eat without a mess, and can definitely hold their own for the day.

(Image credit: Brie Passano)

10. Paleo Bacon Date Bites

When you’re in need of an instant boost of energy, these bite-sized snacks are proof that good things come in small packages. Stash these in your backpack to feed your cravings on the trail — whether it’s a savory, sweet, or salty snack you’re after, you’ll find all three here.

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