How to find hiking partners: the 5 best ways
Why is finding a hiking buddy so hard?
Hiking is one of the most accessible outdoor activities out there. But finding a group of people to hit the trails with is often a different story. Schedules clash, fitness levels differ, and most people don't know where to look beyond their immediate social circle. If you've ever set off solo wishing you had company, you're far from alone. The good news is this problem is very solvable. Here are five ways that actually work.
Meeting people on the trails
The trail itself is one of the most natural places to meet fellow hikers - because everyone there is literally already a hiker. This works especially well if you're outgoing, and someone who is in the same area for a longer time. The downside is that it's slow and unpredictable. It's great for building local connections, but less useful if you're someone travelling through an area.
The modern way: Oak, a hiking partner app
Oak is the most efficient way to find hiking partners online. It's one of the biggest hiking partner-finding app in the world, built specifically for people who want to get outside with others. You can browse profiles of fellow hikers, search for partners based on your specific mountain or objective you want to summit, and join hiking communities named in-app as "Groups" - because hiking doesn't have to be a 1:1 experience either. Whether you're planning an after work walk, a weekend day hike, or a multi-day trek, Oak can connect you to likeminded outdoorsy people.
Other apps: Meetup, Facebook Groups, and Bumble BFF
A few general-purpose apps can help, though none are built with hiking in mind. Meetup hosts outdoor and hiking groups in many cities. Search for local walking or hiking groups and you'll often find regular organised outings. Facebook Groups work similarly, and there are active hiking communities for most regions. Some people on Reddit have said they had success with Bumble BFF for finding activity partners, but it's a very generic platform, so it may be time consuming.
Outdoor gear shops and local events
Many outdoor gear retailers: REI in the US, Cotswold Outdoor in the UK, and similar stores elsewhere, host group hikes, skills workshops, and community events. These are a great way to meet people who are already invested in the outdoors. The only problem is, if you aren't living in an outdoorsy area, you may struggle to attend some of these events.
Hiking clubs and mountaineering associations
Joining a hiking or mountaineering club is a time-tested method that still delivers. Clubs organise regular group hikes, weekend trips, and skills workshops - and the shared experience of a long day on the trail is one of the fastest ways to build lasting friendships. In the US, the American Alpine Club and The Mountaineers have local chapters across the country. In the UK, the British Mountaineering Council lists hundreds of affiliated clubs. Most countries have a national body with a club directory. Search for your nearest alpine club, rambling club, or hillwalking group to get started.
Ready to find your next hiking partner?
Download Oak and connect with hikers near you - browse profiles, find partners for your specific trails, and join hiking communities.