is Hiking a Good First Date Idea? Our Experience and Ideas Your Date Will Love

Save to Find It Later!

Is hiking a good first date idea? That’s a good question and we’ve got you covered! If you’re thinking of going hiking on a first date, then this post covers everything you should know.

In a previous post, we shared how to plan the best hiking date. In this post, you’ll find all the pros and cons of hiking as a first date specifically. We’ve also included a section on why hiking is good for a first date, ways to make it more romantic and to remain safe on your first hiking date. 

For more personalized first date ideas, check out our unique date ideas quiz here.

Is hiking a good first date: 23 Pros

If you’re here, it’s because you’re wondering whether hiking is one of the top first date ideas. In our experience, hiking as a first date can be a wonderful idea. We’ve hiked in many countries ever since we met so we’ve been able to gather the pros of hiking and whether or not hiking would work for a first date. In this section, Eric and I are sharing the pros of going hiking for a first date.

1. A first date on neutral grounds

One of the answer to “Is hiking a good first date?” is yes because it happens on neutral grounds. First dates are nerve-racking. They are even more stressful if you have to meet your first date in a pubic space, in their own town and risking meeting some people they know. Going on a hike allows both you and your partner to meet on neutral grounds and break the ice in a non-threatening environment. Hiking on neutral grounds makes it easier to connect and share experiences without feeling the pressure of a formal setting. 

2. Hiking can be done anywhere

Eric and I have gone on hiking dates in Dublin, hiking dates in Vancouver , on dates in Utah and even in Greece. You can go on a hiking date pretty much anywhere whether that’d be to date in Santa Barbara or NYC! So whether you already know your date or you’ve just met them on vacation, hiking is an available first date option!

3. Life is good hiking : the power of nature on a first date

We love spending time in nature as we feel it allows us to connect on a deeper level. Hiking provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, which can be a powerful and romantic experience. Being surrounded by nature can create a calming atmosphere that helps to reduce anxiety and improve mood, which are both beneficial when you’re trying to form a connection with another person.

4. A first hiking date is flexible

Hiking as a first date is flexible and can be tailored to suit your preferences. This is one of the aspects of hiking as a date that we both love the most. You can choose a trail based on your skill level, and you can also plan your hiking date for the morning or afternoon, depending on your schedule or the weather. The flexible nature of hiking makes it easy for you and your partner to customize the experience to meet your needs and preferences, allowing you to enjoy the moment and connect on a deeper level.

5. Hiking is a free first date

Look, when you don’t know someone and have no idea where the relationship is going to go, it’s normal not to want to spend much money on them. Hiking is free, making it perfect for a first date! You can enjoy each other’s company, and get to know each other without the pressure of spending too much money, allowing you to focus on getting to know each other. It also avoids any awkward moment of who is picking up the bill!

6. Hiking as a first date creates conversation

From talking about your surroundings to discussing life, hiking provides endless opportunities for conversation. If you’re nervous about awkward silences or a bit shy, hiking is a good first date idea as it will provide you with things to talk about whether that’d be simply talking about the hike itself or the view. Walking side by side also provides a relaxed environment and an opportunity for uninterrupted conversations, which makes it easier to build a deeper connection. Eric and I always have the best conversations while hiking and walking! It allows us to really focus on what we are saying to each other and also creates new topics of conversations!

7. Hiking as a first date can be simple or more romantic

A first date can be difficult to organize. It’s sometimes difficult to gauge whether you should go all in or if you should hold back a bit. For example, if you met on an app, you probably want to keep things chill to not scare your date off. However, if you’ve been friends for a while but this is your first official date, you may want to be a bit more romantic on the hike. Hiking as a first date provides you with a degree of flexibility when it comes to how romantic you should be. You can keep things really simple and just talk while hiking or you can go all in and hold your date’s hands, and prepare small gifts to give them along the way. 

8. Is hiking a good date? It takes away the pressure

Hiking as a first date is low-pressure and allows couples to explore and connect without the stress of a more formal or traditional date. In our experience, hiking as a first date removes the pressure of what to wear, what to say, how to behave. Hiking as a first date allows you to be natural and chill. Hiking also provides a relaxed environment that encourages couples to let their guard down and be themselves.

9. You can easily make it a double date

Hiking can be a great double date option, as it allows couples to share their experiences, connect with nature, and have fun in a group. Double dates also ease the pressure of a one-on-one date, allowing everyone to feel more relaxed and comfortable.

10. A first date hiking is easy to prolong

If you’re wondering is hiking a good first date idea, then then answer is yes because you can prolong it. Hiking for a first date can be as long or as short as you and your partner want it to be. You can choose to spend a few hours hiking, or you can make a day of it, depending on how it’s going. If things are going well, you can decide to prolong your first date either by turning it into a date at the pier, or even a date at the spa. Other options include going for lunch or going to natural hot springs to relax after the effort!

11. No distractions

One of the answer to “Is hiking a good first date?” is yes because it has to no distractions. Hiking as a first date is a great way to connect with each other rather than connecting to the internet! Going hiking on a first date is a great way to eliminate distractions and focus on each other. With no phones, computers or other interruptions, you and your partner can fully engage in conversation, enjoy each other’s company and connect on a deeper level. 

We are the first witness of this advantage of going hiking on a first date. We’re always stuck on our phones or computers whether that’d be for work or leisure. So Eric and I sometimes spend 30 minutes without talking to each other and simply looking at our phones. Not super romantic! Instead, when we go hiking, we don’t have any of these or they simply don’t work if there is no cell reception. It allows us to take a break from life and simply enjoy the moment together. It’s a lot easier to connect this way!

12. Is hiking a good first date?: Silences made easy

Hiking provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the peaceful and serene surroundings with your partner. The stunning views and natural beauty of the hiking trail create an environment where silence is easy and comfortable, allowing for intimate moments of connection and reflection and taking the pressure away from always having to talk like you would at dinner.

13. See your date for who they are

Hiking provides a chance for you to see your partner in a more natural state, without the distractions of makeup or fancy clothes. In big cities, people often complain of their dates putting on a show and not being able to see people for who they really are. We’ve heard this comment about people dating in LA, people dating in Boston or even people dating in Dallas.This helps to create a more genuine and authentic connection, allowing you to appreciate your partner’s true beauty and character.

14. See your date’s real character

Hiking can be a challenging and physically demanding activity, which provides an excellent opportunity to see your partner’s character traits such as patience, teamwork, and how they handle challenges. It also allows you to see whether they are willing to help you if you’re struggling with certain sections of the hike or if they will simply get impatient with you. These traits can give you insight into your partner’s personality and help you to connect on a deeper level.

Marie has been on first dates hiking where here date was very impatient and didn’t take any time to appreciate the hike itself. It wasn’t very enjoyable and there was never a second date!

15. Hiking dates are easy to dress for

Choosing an outfit for a hike is a straightforward process, as comfort and functionality are the main priorities. This can be a refreshing change from the pressure of dressing up for a traditional first date, allowing you to focus more on connecting with your partner.

16. Natural affection opportunity

The physical activity and natural surroundings of a hike can create a romantic and affectionate atmosphere. Opportunities for hand-holding, embracing, and other displays of affection arise naturally during a hike, which will help you build a deeper connection with your partner.

17. Hikes as first dates are playful

A hike provides an opportunity to add a fun, playful element to your date. Whether you’re racing, doing scavenger hunts, or playing games like “I spy”, a first date hike can create a fun experience where you can really be who you are and have a pleasant time with your date.

18. Good exercise

Proper hiking is a great form of exercise that can boost mood, increase endorphins, and improve overall health. This creates a positive environment to get to know each other. Sharing this experience with your partner can create a strong physical and emotional connection.

19. Adventure guaranteed

Hiking is an adventure in itself, as you explore nature and its beautiful landscapes. In our experience, many things can happen on a hike and they can create bonding moments but also big laughters! Eric and I have had many funny moments on hikes. One of them is when we both accidentally stepped in big mud puddles and had to clean up our shoes in the river. We laughed a lot and took silly photos. These moments are what makes the adventure fun and what also creates long lasting memories.

20. Unforgettable memories

The stunning sceneries and natural beauty that a hike offers along with the funny memories and moments of affection can create unforgettable memories that will always be cherished by you and your partner.

21. Romantic sceneries 

Whether you’re hiking to a heart-shaped lake like we did in Ireland or you’re simply hiking along a river or on a suspension bridge like we did in Vancouver, hiking can provide a romantic atmosphere with beautiful natural settings, perfect for creating an intimate and special connection with your partner.

22. Is hiking a good first date idea? Yes, hiking is good for health!

When you decide to be in a relationship with someone, it’s because you want to be with them long term. Making sure staying healthy is important for them is definitely a factor to take into consideration. Hiking has many health benefits, including stress relief, lower blood pressure, and increased cardiovascular health. Sharing this healthy activity with your partner can strengthen your bond and promote a healthier lifestyle.

23. Share your love of nature

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, hiking allows you and your partner to share a love of nature, which can be a beautiful and meaningful way to connect on a deeper level. It can also create an opportunity to discuss important topics such as sustainability and the environment.

Is hiking a good first date: 11 Cons

In our experience, there are many pros to go on a hike for a first date. However, there are also some disadvantages to go on a hike as a first date. We want you to read this section so you can be aware of certain risks and can protect yourself appropriately. In this section, we share some cons of hiking as a first date.

1. Your date is a creep

Going on a hike with someone you never met can be dangerous. You may be putting yourself at risk if your date turns out to be a creep. Safety always comes first, so if you have any concerns, trust your gut and choose a safer first date option. Alternatively, you can choose to have a hike in a very public place.

2. Is hiking a good first date: Risk of injury

Hiking can be physically demanding, and there’s always a chance of injury, especially if you’re not used to the terrain. If you or your date are prone to accidents or have any physical limitations, it may be best to choose a less strenuous activity for your first date.

3. The hike is too hard or too long

If you or your date are not experienced hikers, choosing a challenging or lengthy trail may not be the best idea for a first date. It can quickly become exhausting, leading to fatigue and irritability, which is not ideal for building a romantic connection.

4. Your date has hayfever

Hiking often involves being in nature and being exposed to various allergens. If your date has hayfever, they may not enjoy the hike or may even have a negative reaction, which can ruin the date.

5. Your date has allergies

If your date has other allergies such as an allergy to bee stings or mosquito bites, it might be best to avoid going for a hike on a first date. If they do get sting, they may need to be brought to the hospital which would ruin your first date.

6. Your date doesn’t like hiking

This is an obvious one but worth mentioning! If your date doesn’t like hiking, forcing them to go on a hike as a first date is not a good idea. It can make the date uncomfortable, and they may not be willing to engage in the activity, which can ruin the date’s purpose. It also shows that you don’t care about their preferences which isn’t a great foundation for a relationship.

7. No washrooms

Hiking trails don’t always have washrooms readily available, which can be problematic. Your date probably doesn’t want to have to pee in nature just a few meters away when they don’t know you well. This can lead to anxiety, making it difficult to relax and connect with your date.

8. You can’t leave halfway through

Once you start a hike, it’s not easy to leave halfway through if things aren’t going well. This can create an uncomfortable situation, leading to an unenjoyable and potentially awkward experience.

9. Varying fitness levels

If you and your date have vastly different fitness levels, it can make the hike challenging for one or both of you. This can lead to frustration, causing the date to become unenjoyable.

10. Is hiking a good first date idea? What about sweating?

Hiking is a physical activity, and it’s natural to sweat during the hike. Eric and I have been together for years so sweating just doesn’t bother us. However, some people may find it uncomfortable to sweat on a first date, which can lead to self-consciousness and prevent them from enjoying the experience.

11. You’re hiking to high elevation

Hiking as a first date with someone that you trust doesn’t seem like a problem. However, whether it’s your idea or not, we highly recommend checking with your date whether the elevation of the hike is high or not. For example, Eric and I have spent time on top of mountains and hiking there can be a bit harder. Symptoms of high elevation can manifest through headaches, dizziness and other ways. This is something quite common at Lake Tahoe for example. Though the Tahoe area is one of the most romantic places in the US, and even one of the most desired elopement locations in California, Tahoe Lake’s elevation is high and can make your date sick, causing the date to turn kind of meh!

First date hike tips: How to flirt on a hike for a first date

A hike as a first date can be a good idea. If it’s something both you date and yourself enjoy, you may want to make it more romantic than just a simple hike with a friend. Here are some ways Eric and I find are good to flirt while on a hike.

Be respectful

Is hiking a good first date idea? Only if you are respectful when trying to flirt! Being respectful towards your date shows that you value them and are interested in getting to know them. It’s the basis of any relationship and will help make your date comfortable around you. Flirting can only work if there is respect to being with.

Use eye contact

Eye contact is a powerful way to communicate interest and attraction. It can convey feelings that words cannot express, and it can help build intimacy and trust between you and your partner. Eric and I use eye contact all the time for flirting but also to say things we can’t say or that make us laugh but would be inappropriate to comment on with people around us. For example, if someone says or does something shocking, we’ll usually look at each other and know right away what we think which will then make us laugh. Eye contact is powerful so use it!

Hold hands 

Holding hands can be a subtle yet intimate gesture that shows you are comfortable with each other’s presence. Hiking as a first date allows for plenty hand holding. For example, if your partner is struggling with a section of the hike, you can offer to hold their hand to encourage them or helping them go over the tough part. It can convey a sense of protection and care, which can be romantic and endearing.

Race together 

Racing together can be a fun way to add a playful element to your hike. It can create a sense of shared excitement and competitiveness, which can help build a stronger connection between you and your partner.

Take funny photos together

Taking funny photos can help lighten the mood and create a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. It can also be a way to express your sense of humor and share fun moments with your partner which can then turn into flirtation.

Compliment your date 

Complimenting your date can be a great way to make them feel appreciated and valued. It can help boost their self-confidence and make them more comfortable around you, which can encourage flirting and deeper conversation. Think about complimenting them on a spectrum of things not just their physical appearance. For example, you can tell them how you love that they are so determined during the hike or how you appreciate their upbeat personality.

Take care of your date 

Taking care of your date can be a way to show your affection and concern for them. This can include offering water, snacks, or help with difficult parts of the hike. It can create a sense of closeness and trust between you and your partner, which can enhance the flirting and romantic aspects of the hike.

How to make a hiking date romantic for a first date

During a first date, you’ll want to be romantic without overdoing it so you don’t scare your date away. In this section, we share with you ways that will make your hiking first date more romantic.

Bring a picnic

Surprise your date with a romantic picnic in the middle or end of the hike. Take your time to enjoy each other’s company, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in delicious food. This thoughtful gesture shows your partner that you care and can be a great opportunity to bond and connect. Eric and I do picnics all the time. They’re easy to organise but always make a good impression. Make sure to check with your date whether there are any foods they cannot eat so you can pack your picnic accordingly.

Prepare a scavenger hunt

We are both fans of scavenger hunts. They’re so fun! A scavenger hunt can be a fun and romantic way to spice up a normal hiking date. You can make it interesting by using nature. You can make a list of certain leaves, rocks or flowers to find together on the hike. This activity can bring out your playful side and create a memorable experience. It also creates room for conversation without it being awkward.

Offer little gifts as you go

Small and thoughtful gifts can go a long way in showing your date how much you care on a first date. A small flower picked from the trail or a cute keychain from the gift shop can make your partner feel special and appreciated.

Bring drinks to have at the end of the trail

You can celebrate reaching a beautiful viewpoint by toasting with your favorite drinks. This romantic gesture can create a magical moment between you and your partner and enhance the experience of the hike. Make it more romantic by picking a couple options so your date has the choice. That will show them that you care about them having a good time and wanted them to have a choice in case they didn’t like one of the drinks. It also allows you not to have to ask them beforehand and keep the surprise!

Pick a beautiful scenery

Choose a hike with stunning views to make your first date even more romantic. Heart-shaped lakes, beautiful waterfalls, mountain tops, there are many options! The beauty of nature can help set the mood and create a romantic atmosphere for you and your partner.

Forever memories

Capture the moment with photos or videos to create forever memories of your first date. You can also create a scrapbook or a photo album together to look back on in the future. One fun way to do this is by bringing a small notebook and an instantaneous camera. That way, you can print and see the photos right away and add them into the notebook together. You can then gift the notebook to your date and ask them to think of you when they go home!

Pack some thoughtful necessities

Pack some extra necessities like water, snacks, or a jacket to ensure your partner is comfortable during the hike. You can also pack sunscreen that is suitable for your date’s skin type to be extra thoughtful. This gesture shows that you are thoughtful and caring, which can be attractive and create a deeper connection.

Is a hike a good first date: Planning tips

In this section, we are sharing some practical first hiking date tips to ensure you have the best first date together. After all, you don’t want your date to be ruined before it has even started, do you?

Hiking date advice: choose a mild hiking trail

Choosing a mild hiking trail for your first date ensures that both you and your partner are comfortable during the hike. Eric and I always pick moderate trails so we know we can both manage without getting grumpy. A challenging hike may lead to exhaustion, and nobody wants to be sweaty and out of breath on a first date.

Plan transportation

Planning transportation beforehand is important to avoid any last-minute confusion or delays. You don’t want to keep your partner waiting or be late for your date either. To be extra thoughtful, you can arrange your date’s transportation as well. You can offer to pay for their ride and ensure their ride is separate so they can leave whenever they want to without having to rely on you. This shows that you are selfless and that your priority is your date’s comfort.

Pick a trail with washrooms

Picking a trail with washrooms is not essential but can make a first date hiking a lot more enjoyable. Indeed, it’s a bit awkward to have to go in nature when you barely know each other! 

Schedule your hiking first date earlier in the day

Scheduling the hike earlier in the day gives you and your partner more time to spend together. You can start your hike with the sunrise, and it’s a great way to begin your day on a romantic note. After the hike, depending on how it went, you can decide to prolong it with breakfast or other activities. 

Bring food (other than a picnic)

Bringing food for your hike is a thoughtful gesture that shows you care about your partner’s well-being. Snacks during the hike can make the experience more enjoyable and memorable.

Opt for shorter trail

Opting for a shorter trail ensures that you both have enough time to enjoy the hike without feeling rushed or exhausted. It also gives you more time to get to know each other during and after the hike. Choosing a shorter trail also ensures that there is no pressure on you two. Imagine being stuck on a 4 hours long hike with someone you end up not really liking. It’s better to have the option to prolong the first date  than being stuck on one. A shorter trail gives you the opportunity to end the date (if it wasn’t good) without it turning awkward.

Confirm your date likes hiking

Confirming whether your date likes hiking or not before planning a hiking date is crucial. Not everyone enjoys hiking, and forcing someone to hike may ruin your first date. It’s also quite romantic to ask your date if they like the activity you have planned. It shows that you care about their opinion and see each other as equals.

First hiking date safety

Is hiking a good first date idea? Only if you stay safe! On a first date, safety is always key and should be the first thing on your mind. In this section, Eric and I have gathered our extensive hiking experience and dating experience to help you stay safe when accepting to go on a hike for a first date.

Meet for a snack beforehand

Meeting for a snack beforehand ensures that you have some time to talk and get to know your date a little bit before heading out on the hike. This can help you get a better idea of what to expect, the vibe they are giving, and if you feel safe around them or not. It will also help you assess if there is anything obviously wrong with their behaviour such as alcohol consumption.

Ensure your date isn’t drinking alcohol

Alcohol can impair judgement and put both you and your date in a dangerous situation on the hike. It’s important to stay sober and aware during the first date hike to ensure that you both stay safe.

No remote location

Is hiking a good first date idea? Only if you stay in public! Choosing a well-populated hiking trail with lots of people around ensures that you and your date will not be alone in a remote location. As you don’t know your date, it’s important to avoid going to a remote location where it would be harder to escape from. This can help both of you feel safer and more comfortable during the hike.

Have them text you the itinerary

Asking your date to text you the itinerary of the hike can help ensure that you know where you are going and what the plan is. This can help you stay calm and avoid unnecessary worry during the hike. It can help you track whether you are following the trail when on your hike and whether anything feels off.

Tell a friend

It’s always a good idea to tell a friend about your plans and let them know where you will be going on the hike and whom with. This can provide an additional safety net in case of an emergency.

Tell them you told a friend

Telling your date that you have informed a friend of your hiking plans can help deter them in case they had planned something bad. It can also encourage them to do the same and let someone know where they will be for their own safety.

Carry pepper spray or bear spray

Carrying pepper spray or bear spray can provide an additional layer of protection during the hike. It’s important to make sure you know how to use it properly and to carry it in an easily accessible location. In case something goes wrong with your date, you will at least have a way to stop them for a moment while you leave.

Trust your gut

If something feels off or uncomfortable during the hike, trust your gut and take action to ensure your safety. It’s better to be safe than sorry in a potentially dangerous situation.

Go with your own transportation

Going with your own transportation provides an added layer of control and ensures that you can leave the hike if necessary. It also helps to avoid being stranded in an unfamiliar area with someone you’ve never met before.

Is hiking a good first date? Only if you go during the day

Going on your hiking first date during the day when the trails are busy ensures that there are more people around and less chance of getting into a dangerous situation. For a first date, we recommend avoiding hiking at sunset as you might get caught in the dark with someone you barely know.

Make it a double date

Making it a double date can help provide an added sense of safety and comfort during the hike. Having another couple along can help you feel more secure and provide additional support if necessary.

First date hiking outfit

Though we have a dedicated post on what to wear for a hiking date, we wanted to include a quick section on what to wear on a hiking first date.

Is hiking a good first date idea when it comes to outfits?

The answer is yes and now. Going on a hike for a first date will have you dress comfortably and appropriately for the outdoors. Of course, what to wear for a hike date for a first date will vary depending on everyone’s style. But it isn’t always the cutest outfits that you’d want to wear on a first date. So you won’t be able to show off as much as you would have if you had gone to dinner. That said, it’s really great if you’re looking for someone that will love you for you rather than for what you look like.

What to wear on a hiking date girl outfits

• Leggings or shorts are great options as they allow for ease of movement and won’t restrict you during the hike.
• A T-shirt or tank top is also recommended, as it’s lightweight and breathable for warm weather hikes.
• A baseball hat is a good option to protect your face from the sun and keep your hair out of your face.
• Hiking date makeup: Opt for light makeup or no makeup at all, as a natural look is perfect for a hiking date.
• Sneakers or hiking boots are important to have on to ensure you have proper support and grip on the trail.

Hiking date what to wear for men

• Comfortable joggers or shorts are great options for men, as they allow for ease of movement during the hike.
• A T-shirt is also recommended, as it’s lightweight and breathable for warm weather hikes.
• A baseball hat is a good option to protect your face from the sun and keep your hair out of your face.
• Sneakers or hiking shoes are important to have on to ensure you have proper support and grip on the trail.

Other tips on what to wear hiking date

When dressing for a hiking first date, it’s important to also consider the weather conditions. If it’s hot outside, wear clothing that is breathable and lightweight. If it’s cooler, make sure to bring along an extra layer like a jacket or sweatshirt for a comfortable hiking date outfit winter style.

It’s also important to wear clothing that you feel confident and comfortable in. If you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable in your clothing, it may affect your mood and overall experience on your first date.

More about us

Eric and I have been dating for years and hiking is always one of our favorite types of dates! As we’ve traveled to many romantic locations over the world, we’ve been able to hike in many beautiful sceneries, even during our first dates. 

Hiking on a first date FAQs

Any questions on whether hiking is a good first date idea? Drop them in the comments or on insta and we will get back to you asap.