There is still time to grab a few last minute gifts for the hikers in your life – or yourself. In an earlier post, I mentioned essentials for hikers. REI has this great list. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html.
A few snack bars, headlamp or a fine pair of socks make great stocking stuffers and are much appreciated by hikers, at least this one. Hiking poles are a fabulous, more expensive gift for that special hiker. I love the collapsible poles because they can be stowed in suitcases for travel and your pack when hiking on more level terrain. My 6′ 4″ husband with bad knees wouldn’t hike without his poles!
A hydration pack is also a great gift. I travel everywhere with mine, using the bag itself as my carry on. I just bought my husband a fabulous Osprey https://www.osprey.com/us/en/category/hydration/?&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=fy18_us_ecomm_srch_brnd_google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_keyword=osprey%20hydration%20pack for his birthday.
A great hiking book, an inspirational story about hikers, or a hiking guide also makes a good gift. I’m partial to The Pursuit of Endurance by Jennifer Pharr Davis. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Jennifer (see earlier post) and she is personable as well as inspirational. https://jenniferpharrdavis.com/
Another great REI resource for gift ideas (and tips) is: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/day-hiking-checklist.htmlhttps://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/day-hiking-checklist.html.
We love REI, but we also value supporting our local shops such as 3 Rivers https://3riversoutdoor.com/. My husband and I have found both places provide expert advice and help in finding items at your price point.
Score some points with your favorite hiker and surprise them with some tools to help them be a happy hiker.