Written by Joshua Sosin

There’s something magical about combining the great outdoors with smoking weed. The fresh air, the scenic views, and the enhanced sensory experience all come together to create an unforgettable adventure.

But hiking while high isn’t just rolling up and heading to the nearest trail. it requires preparation, awareness, and responsibility to make sure you and the other folks around you have the best possible experience.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Joy of Hiking High

• The Dos of Hiking While High

  • Choose the Right Strain

  • Know Your Limits

  • Pack Smart

  • Hydrate and Fuel Up

  • Respect Nature and Others

  • Pick the Right Trail

  • Hike with a Buddy

• The Don'ts of Hiking While High

  • Don’t Overdo It

  • Don’t Forget Safety Measures

  • Don’t Litter

  • Don’t Disturb Wildlife

  • Don’t Get Lost

  • Don’t Drive Under the Influence

• Final Thoughts

The Joy of Hiking High

Hiking is already an incredible way to connect with nature, but adding smoking cannabis or enjoying edibles into the mix can elevate the experience to a whole new level.

Colors seem brighter, sounds more vivid, and the rhythmic movement of walking feels meditative. Whether you prefer a slow, introspective stroll or a challenging summit, cannabis can help enhance your enjoyment—if done responsibly.

That’s where the dos and don’ts come in. Let’s break down how to make sure your high-hiking adventure is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

The Dos of Hiking While High

1. Choose the Best Strain Possible

Not all cannabis strains are created equal, especially when it comes to physical activities like hiking.

A heavy indica strain might have you feeling too relaxed, while a super energizing sativa strain could make you jittery.

Look for well-balanced hybrids or uplifting sativa-dominant strains that keep you clear-headed, creative, and engaged on hiking trails.

Our top pick for hiking is Pluto, a creative hybrid strain. Get 1g from the Mood Shop today to roll a perfect pre-hike joint.

2. Know Your Limits

If you’re new to hiking while high, take it slow. Start with a familiar trail, use a strain or gummy that you trust, and consume a small amount. It’s easy to underestimate how cannabis will affect you in an outdoor environment, and the last thing you want is to feel too spaced out miles away from civilization.

3. Pack Smart

When heading out on a high-friendly hike, make sure to bring:

• Plenty of water

• Healthy snacks

• Sunscreen and bug spray

• A first-aid kit

• A map or GPS device

• A portable vaporizer or pre-roll (if legal in your area)

Having the right gear guarantees you’re prepared for whatever nature throws your way.

4. Stay Hydrated and Fuel Up

Cottonmouth is real, and hiking can be dehydrating even without cannabis in the mix.

Make sure you bring enough water — more than you think you’ll need. Snacks like fruit, trail mix, or granola bars can also help keep your energy up and prevent any unexpected fatigue.

5. Respect Nature and Others

Cannabis consumption should never come at the expense of the environment or other hikers. Follow Leave No Trace principles — don’t leave roaches, packaging, or any other trash behind. If you’re on a popular trail, be discreet and respectful of others who may not share your enthusiasm for hiking high.

6. Pick the Right Trail

Choose a trail that matches your experience level and desired vibe. If you want a leisurely, reflective walk, opt for an easy loop with scenic viewpoints. If you’re up for a challenge, make sure you’re confident in your abilities before attempting a strenuous climb.

7. Hike with a Buddy to Stay Safe

Solo hiking while high can be peaceful, but having a friend along makes it safer and more fun. If anything goes wrong — getting lost, running low on supplies, or just needing some extra motivation — a buddy is there to help point you in the right direction.

The Don'ts of Hiking While High

1. Don’t Overdo the Cannabis Use

There’s a fine line between enhancement and impairment. Getting too high on cannabis products like flower or edibles can lead to dizziness, paranoia, or poor decision-making. Keep it light, and remember that being present in nature is just as important as the high itself.

2. Don’t Forget Safety Measures

Even if you’re on a familiar trail, always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Carry a whistle, know basic first aid, and be aware of potential hazards like sudden weather changes or wildlife encounters.

3. Don’t Litter

This should go without saying, but cannabis users get enough stigma—don’t be the person who leaves behind packaging, roaches, or vape cartridges. Pack out everything you bring in.

4. Don’t Disturb Wildlife

Cannabis can make you feel more connected to nature, but remember — you’re a guest in these animals’ homes. Avoid feeding or approaching wildlife, and stay on marked trails to minimize your impact on their habitat.

5. Don’t Get Lost

Cannabis can sometimes distort your sense of time and direction. Make sure you know the trail before setting out, use GPS or a map and stay aware of your surroundings. If you start feeling disoriented, take a break, drink water, and reorient yourself before continuing.

6. Don’t Drive Under the Influence

This one’s non-negotiable. If you’ve consumed cannabis, let someone else drive or wait until you’re completely sober. Plan ahead with a designated driver or use a rideshare service if necessary.

Enjoying the Great Outdoors — and Some Great Strains

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