Top Tunes for the Trail: A Hiker’s Playlist

Curating the Perfect Playlist for Nature Excursions

Embarking on a hiking journey is not just about physical endurance; it’s also an immersive experience for the senses. While the sights and sounds of nature provide a stellar backdrop, pairing the perfect tunes with the trail can elevate the experience. An adeptly curated playlist can motivate one stride after another, deepen the connection to nature, or simply offer a rhythm that complements the natural cadence of one’s steps. Below are songs and musical selections that form the ultimate hiker’s playlist.

Melodies that Echo the Great Outdoors

Inspirational Anthems

Starting with an invigorating boost, songs like Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine summon the energy needed to ascend those steep climbs. Similarly, Eye of the Tiger by Survivor can push you to conquer challenging terrains. These tracks serve as a reminder that the journey ahead can be tackled with tenacity and spirit. More tracks of this type would be :

“On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons – A vibrant and energetic song that embodies a sense of achievement and joy.
“Budapest” by George Ezra – A light-hearted and catchy tune, perfect for enjoying scenic views.
“Beautiful Day” by U2 – This classic track is both inspiring and invigorating, perfect for a sunny day outdoors.
“Mountain Sound” by Of Monsters and Men – A folk-inspired tune that resonates with the spirit of adventure and nature.
“I Lived” by OneRepublic – An anthem about living life to the fullest, fitting for embracing the great outdoors.
“Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay – A lively and rhythmic song that encourages exploration and enjoyment.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams – A universally feel-good song that adds a spring to your step.
“Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros – A joyful track with a folk vibe, celebrating the journey and experience.
“Best Day of My Life” by American Authors – An optimistic and vibrant song that captures the essence of making the most out of every moment.

Soothing Acoustics

For the tranquil parts of your trail, acoustic tracks such as “Blackbird” by The Beatles or Fast Car by Tracy Chapman can mirror the simplicity and reflective aura of nature. Acoustic music brings a raw, unfiltered connection that resonates with the authentic beauty of the surroundings. Other tracks would include :

“Holocene” by Bon Iver – A beautifully serene song with gentle acoustics, perfect for introspective moments in nature.
“Fire and Rain” by James Taylor – A classic, soothing melody with heartfelt lyrics, ideal for a reflective hike.
“The Girl” by City and Colour – A soft, melodic tune that complements the tranquility of a scenic trail.
“Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson – A laid-back, cheerful song that brings a sense of ease and comfort.
“Better Together” by Jack Johnson – A warm, uplifting song that feels like a gentle companion on your hike.
“Heartbeats” by José González – A delicate and rhythmic acoustic song, perfect for syncing with the pace of your steps.
“Fleet Foxes” by White Winter Hymnal – Harmonious and mellow, this track complements the natural surroundings.
“Northern Wind” by City and Colour – A soft, whispery tune that blends beautifully with the sounds of nature.

Instrumentals and Nature Sounds

Tracks like “Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence” by Ryuichi Sakamoto or Satie: Gymnopédie No. 1 provide a calm, almost meditative atmosphere for your hike. Incorporating instrumental pieces within your playlist can help align your breath with your motion, turning your hike into a form of moving meditation. Other options are :

“River Flows in You” by Yiruma – A gentle, flowing piano piece that mimics the movement of water, ideal for riverside walks.
“Marconi Union – Weightless” – Known for its calming effects, this ambient track is perfect for a stress-free hike.
“Morning Mood” by Edvard Grieg – A light, uplifting orchestral piece that captures the essence of a peaceful morning in nature.
“Nature Sounds – Forest Morning” – Birdsong and gentle forest sounds to bring the essence of the woods to your hike.
“Meditation” from “Thaïs” by Jules Massenet – A serene violin piece that adds a touch of elegance and tranquility to your walk.
**”Ocean Waves” – A soothing track featuring the rhythmic sounds of ocean waves, great for coastal trails.
“Ludovico Einaudi – Nuvole Bianche” – A soft, emotive piano composition that blends beautifully with natural landscapes.
“Rainforest Sounds” – A track that immerses you in the ambiance of a tropical rainforest, perfect for lush trails.
“Debussy – Clair de Lune” – A timeless piano piece that is both calming and enchanting, suitable for evening hikes.
**”Mountain Stream” – Gentle sounds of a flowing stream combined with a soft instrumental background, ideal for mountain hikes.

Empowering Beats to Keep You Going

High-Energy Pop and Rock

When you need that extra push, uplifting selections from genres like pop and rock can do the trick. Imagine reaching a summit with Can’t Stop the Feeling by Justin Timberlake in your ears, or maintaining your pace with the timeless vibe of Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac. These are some of my other jams while hiking :

“Shut Up and Dance” by WALK THE MOON – An irresistible, upbeat track that’s perfect for keeping the pace lively.
“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars – A funky, high-energy song to boost your mood and energy.
“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers – A rock classic with a fast tempo that’s great for uphill climbs.
“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey – An iconic rock anthem that’s perfect for a motivational boost.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams – A catchy tune that’s impossible not to move along to.
“Living on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi – A high-energy rock song that keeps the adrenaline pumping.
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor – The ultimate motivational track for any challenging trail.
“Best Day Of My Life” by American Authors – An uplifting and vibrant song for an enjoyable hike.

Electronic and Dance Music

The repetitive, driving beats found in electronic music, such as Sun & Moon by Above & Beyond or Strobe by Deadmau5, can help establish a consistent pace. The build-up and breakdowns typical in EDM also mimic the ascents and descents in a hike, making for a synergistic experience. These are some more of my faves :

“Wake Me Up” by Avicii – A dance track with a great beat and uplifting melody.
“Titanium” by David Guetta ft. Sia – A powerful and motivating dance anthem.
“Levels” by Avicii – An iconic electronic track with an infectious energy.
“Get Lucky” by Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams and Nile Rodgers – A fun and funky tune with a smooth rhythm.
“Lean On” by Major Lazer & DJ Snake ft. MØ – A catchy and rhythmic song with a great beat for hiking.
“Animals” by Martin Garrix – A high-energy track with a drop that’s perfect for an intense burst of hiking.
“Clarity” by Zedd ft. Foxes – A dance track with emotional highs and an invigorating beat.
“Don’t You Worry Child” by Swedish House Mafia ft. John Martin – An uplifting and melodic song with a powerful chorus.
“Summer” by Calvin Harris – A vibrant and energetic track that captures the essence of a good time outdoors.

Rhythms that Match the Terrain

Cultural Fusion

Embracing a global palette, blending rhythms like the African beats of Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira or the Latin groove of Vivir Mi Vida by Marc Anthony can echo the diversity found in nature and inspire a sense of worldwide connection on your hike. Music that fits the region you say? Here we go :

Bamboleo” by Gipsy Kings – A lively mix of flamenco, salsa, and pop, perfect for adding a Spanish flair to your hike.
“Lean On” by Major Lazer & DJ Snake ft. MØ – A global hit that fuses electronic beats with Indian musical elements.
“Didi” by Khaled – A classic hit in the Raï music genre, combining traditional Algerian folk music with Western pop.
“Jai Ho” from the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” – A vibrant and catchy Bollywood number with a global appeal.
“Spiritchaser” by Dead Can Dance – An ethereal track that blends global music traditions in a unique and haunting way.
“Hoppípolla” by Sigur Rós – An Icelandic post-rock band known for their ethereal sound and use of classical and minimalistic aesthetic elements.
“Soy Yo” by Bomba Estéreo – A Colombian band that fuses electronic music with traditional Latin American rhythms.
“River” by Ibeyi – A beautiful blend of Yoruba, French, and Afro-Cuban influences with modern sounds.
“Come With Me Now” by Kongos – A song by a South African band that combines alternative rock with kwaito, a genre from South Africa.

Folk and Country

Folk music naturally complements the sounds of the wilderness. Artists like John Denver with Take Me Home, Country Roads or The Lumineers with Ophelia delve deep into the heart of rural landscapes, providing a soundtrack that feels like an extension of the trail itself. If county is more your jam, then try out these :

“Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show – A catchy and upbeat folk tune, great for a lively hike.
“The Cave” by Mumford & Sons – A modern folk song with a driving banjo rhythm, perfect for brisk walking.
“Jolene” by Dolly Parton – A country classic with a memorable melody, ideal for a relaxed pace.
“Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton – A smooth, soulful country track that’s great for unwinding on the trail.
“Ho Hey” by The Lumineers – An uplifting and cheerful folk song, great for enjoying nature’s beauty.
“Hotel California” by The Eagles – A country-rock classic with a story that captivates and entertains.
“Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash – A legendary country song with a rhythm that’s great for keeping a steady pace.
“Little Lion Man” by Mumford & Sons – An energetic and passionate folk song, perfect for invigorating hikes.
“Fleet Foxes” by White Winter Hymnal – A harmonious and mellow tune that complements the natural surroundings.

Finishing with a Reflective Cool Down

Classic Ballads

As you approach the end of your hike, winding down with classic ballads could not be more fitting. Landslide by Fleetwood Mac or The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel allow for introspection and gratitude as one reflects on the journey completed. To wind down, maybe a few of these :

“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin – A legendary rock ballad known for its gradual building structure and powerful climax.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen – A monumental and theatrical piece that combines elements of rock, ballad, and opera.
“Purple Rain” by Prince – A deeply emotional song with a blend of rock, R&B, gospel, and orchestral music.
“Hotel California” by The Eagles – A classic with an engaging narrative and a hauntingly beautiful guitar solo.
“Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor – A deeply moving and soulful ballad, originally written by Prince.
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel – A soothing and uplifting song with a message of comfort and hope.
“November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses – A rock ballad known for its epic length, narrative music video, and sweeping orchestral backing.
“Let It Be” by The Beatles – A timeless and comforting ballad with a simple yet profound message.
“Heroes” by David Bowie – A song with an anthemic quality, combining rock and electronic music.
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd – A reflective and existential song with iconic guitar work.

Modern Chill-Out

Modern, down-tempo tunes like Electric Feel by MGMT or Holocene by Bon Iver offer a contemporary cool-down soundtrack. Their ambient, spacious vibes underscore the sense of relaxation and accomplishment that comes with finishing a trek. Or maybe some of these :

“Midnight City” by M83 – A synth-pop song with an atmospheric and dreamy vibe.
“Sunset Lover” by Petit Biscuit – A mellow, electronic tune perfect for a peaceful hike.
“Weightless” by Marconi Union – An ambient track known for its deeply relaxing properties
“Cherry Wine” by Hozier – A soothing acoustic song with soulful lyrics.
“Oceans” by Vallis Alps – A serene and beautifully layered electronic track.
“Talamak” by Toro y Moi – A chillwave song with a laid-back, lo-fi feel.
“Crystals” by Of Monsters and Men – An indie track with a calming yet uplifting vibe.
“You & Me” (Flume Remix) by Disclosure ft. Eliza Doolittle – A smooth and chill remix with a relaxed tempo and immersive beat.

Music has the power to transform your hiking experience. A well-chosen hiker’s playlist acts as your personal soundtrack for the journey, making every step, summit, and scenic overlook feel richer and more meaningful. So next time you lace up your boots, don’t forget your headphones and your specially curated selection of top tunes for the trail. My hope is that you find some of these tunes as good for your playlist as I have mine over the years.