Planning snacks is an important part of preparing for a successful hike. Having the best hiking snacks on hand provides the quick energy your muscles need to power you up steep trails and mountainous terrain. Snacks also ward off hunger so you can keep a steady pace without bonking halfway through your trek. The top hiking snacks provide a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs to fuel activity for hours. They need to be non-perishable, portable, and packable so they aren’t crushed at the bottom of your backpack. I’ve evaluated dozens of on-the-go snack options to determine the top 5 high protein snacks for hikers.
- California Pistachios Roasted Pistachios are a trail mix superstar thanks to their combination of plant protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Their shell keeps the nuts protected so they stay fresh and pack neatly. California pistachios are meatier and crunchier than those grown elsewhere. Roast without salt for the most wholesome flavor. Pistachios offer 6g of plant protein per serving to rebuild muscle as well as antioxidants for recovery. Their monounsaturated fats provide steady energy while their fiber keeps you feeling satisfied. Pistachios’ shell slows you down so you don’t inhale the serving mindlessly. Portion into snack bags to grab and go.
- Chocolate Covered Almonds Almonds lead the nut pack when it comes to protein with 6g per ounce. Covering them in antioxidant-rich dark chocolate makes them even more enticing. The bittersweet chocolate coating includes beneficial flavonoids, while the monounsaturated fats in almonds support heart health. Together they make a satisfying treat loaded with energy for the trail. Wrap these hardy snacks in foil to prevent melting in your pack. Almonds offer a staying power few other nuts can match. The tasty duo of almonds and dark chocolate makes a heavenly hiking companion.
- Honey Roasted Almonds
Honey roasted almonds offer the same impressive protein content as chocolate covered almonds with a sweet twist. The honey coating caramelizes the nuts for a satisfying crunch without added sugar. Antioxidant-rich raw honey adds vitamins and inflammation-fighting enzymes not found in sugar. Its antibacterial properties also help preserve freshness. The honey roasting process brings out the natural flavors of the almonds. A handful is the perfect pick-me-up when energy lags mid hike. These golden nuggets of nutty sweetness pack 6g of plant-based protein per ounce. - Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans Coffee lovers can get their caffeine fix on the trail with protein-packed espresso beans. Energizing coffee beans are covered in antioxidant-rich dark chocolate for an invigorating treat. The 70% cacao chocolate provides a strong jolt of caffeine along with the mood-lifting effects of chocolate. A one-ounce serving includes 110 mg of caffeine plus brain-boosting theobromine. This is the perfect substitute for sugary candy bars when you need an afternoon lift. The bitter chocolate coating balances the bitter coffee for perfectly sweet intensity.
- Chocolate Covered Pretzel Bites For salty-sweet fans, chocolate covered pretzel bites combine crunchy energy with a chocolatey boost. Pretzels offer up complex carbohydrates for sustained energy on the trail. Their crunch adds textural interest if the rest of your snacks skew soft. The dark chocolate coating provides blood-flow-enhancing flavonoids to increase oxygen delivery to hard-working muscles. Studies show just smelling dark chocolate can improve focus, reaction time, and emotional state. Every ounce contains 2-4 grams of protein depending on the brand. Easy to grab and eat on-the-go, these sweet and salty morsels motivate you to keep trekking.
While portable protein is a key part of fueling outdoor adventures, don’t forget to pack fresh fruits and veggies too. Produce offers hydration and important antioxidants to support recovery. Supplementary snacks like nut butters, bars, jerky and dried fruit round out the top hiking foods for an array of textures and nutrients.
As the saying goes, “an army marches on its stomach.” Give your body the fuel it needs to march up that mountain by choosing high protein snacks intentionally created for life on the trail. Pack your backpack smartly with a mix of hearty proteins, antioxidant-rich superfoods, unrefined carbohydrates and easy produce. Don’t let hunger cut your hike short. With the top 5 portable protein-packed trail mixes and snacks, you’ll be ready to scale that peak and take in gorgeous views. Then celebrate at the summit by enjoying your trail-worthy treats!
Of course no discussion of hiking fuel would be complete without considering survival snacks for true backcountry adventures. When traveling deep into the wilderness for days, space and weight take priority. Pack durable, calorie-dense foods that provide energy despite temperature changes and backpack friction. Hard cheeses, meat jerkies, nuts, nut butters, and certain canned goods fit the bill. Supplement with light, non-perishable superfoods like quinoa, oats, and freeze dried produce to vary textures and flavors. Don’t forget water filters, high fat emergency rations, fire starters and other essential survival items, too. With the right combination of light but mighty hiking snacks tailored to your activity level and terrain, you’ll stay energized no matter how many miles the wilderness calls you to explore.
