Hiking Speakers

Not every expert on the trail is a hiking speaker, but every hiking speaker is, at their core, a communicator of outdoor wisdom. A hiking speaker is someone who shares insights, stories, and strategies related to hiking-whether it's about gear, technique, safety, mindset, or environmental impact-through public speaking engagements.

These speakers might present at virtual summits, outdoor expos, corporate wellness events, or educational webinars. What sets them apart from bloggers or influencers is the live, spoken element. They're not just writing about hiking-they're delivering it in real time to an audience, often with visuals, anecdotes, and interactive elements.

Some hiking speakers are professional adventurers, like Jennifer Pharr Davis, who holds long-distance hiking records. Others might be wilderness educators, park rangers, or even mental health advocates who use hiking as a therapeutic tool. The common thread is their ability to translate trail knowledge into engaging, impactful presentations.

In short, a hiking speaker is a bridge between the trail and the audience. They bring the outdoors to life through voice, visuals, and storytelling, helping others explore nature more confidently and consciously.

When you're organizing an event about the outdoors, wellness, or adventure, the right hiking speaker can be the difference between a forgettable session and a transformative experience. Here's why they matter.

First, hiking speakers provide context and credibility. They don't just talk about hiking-they live it. Whether it's a mountaineer who's summited Kilimanjaro or a local guide who's led hundreds of treks through the Appalachians, their lived experience brings depth and authenticity that audiences crave.

Second, they educate in a way that sticks. Instead of dry manuals or static blog posts, hiking speakers use stories, visuals, and real-time engagement to teach safety, navigation, gear selection, and environmental ethics. For example, a speaker might demonstrate how to pack a bear bag live on camera or explain the Leave No Trace principles through personal anecdotes.

Third, they inspire action. Hearing someone talk about overcoming altitude sickness or hiking solo across Patagonia can spark motivation in your audience. It's not just about information-it's about transformation. This is especially powerful in corporate wellness programs, youth leadership events, or community health initiatives.

Finally, hiking speakers help bridge gaps. They can make hiking feel accessible to urban audiences, people with disabilities, or those new to the outdoors. By sharing diverse perspectives-like adaptive hiking or Indigenous trail stewardship-they expand the conversation beyond the typical outdoor narrative.

Hiking speakers don't just talk about trails-they guide, teach, and inspire across a variety of platforms. Here's a breakdown of what hiking speakers actually do:

1. Share Expertise Through Speaking Engagements
- They present at conferences, virtual summits, outdoor festivals, and corporate events.
- Topics range from ultralight backpacking and wilderness survival to mental health benefits of hiking and environmental conservation.

2. Educate and Train
- Many hiking speakers offer workshops or webinars on specific skills like map reading, gear selection, or backcountry cooking.
- Some partner with schools, nonprofits, or government agencies to promote outdoor education.

3. Advocate for Access and Stewardship
- They often use their platform to promote trail conservation, accessibility, and responsible recreation.
- For example, a speaker might work with local parks to encourage Leave No Trace practices or speak on panels about Indigenous land rights.

4. Inspire Through Storytelling
- Whether recounting a solo trek across Iceland or a family hike through the Rockies, hiking speakers use stories to connect emotionally with audiences.
- These narratives often highlight resilience, personal growth, and the healing power of nature.

5. Collaborate Across Industries
- Hiking speakers frequently collaborate with brands, tourism boards, or health organizations to create content, lead campaigns, or host events.
- For instance, a speaker might co-host a wellness retreat or appear in a documentary about sustainable travel.

In essence, hiking speakers are educators, advocates, and storytellers rolled into one. Their work spans far beyond the trailhead, reaching audiences in boardrooms, classrooms, and living rooms around the world.

Ready to blend your love for the outdoors with public speaking? Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a hiking speaker - someone who shares stories, lessons, and insights from the trail with live or virtual audiences.

1. Define Your Niche.
- Are you focused on solo hiking safety, thru-hiking adventures, or the mental health benefits of nature? Pick a theme that aligns with your experience and passion.
- Tip: Look at speakers on Talks.co to see how others position themselves. A strong niche helps you stand out.

2. Build Your Signature Talk.
- Create a compelling story or presentation. Include personal anecdotes, practical tips, and visuals from your hikes.
- Use a clear structure: hook, journey, lessons, and call to action.

3. Create a Speaker Page.
- This is your digital business card. Include a bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a professional photo.
- Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to showcase your expertise and connect with event hosts.

4. Get Speaking Experience.
- Start small: local hiking clubs, outdoor gear stores, or virtual summits.
- Record your talks and gather feedback. Each gig builds credibility and confidence.

5. Network with Hosts and Communities.
- Reach out to podcast hosts, summit organizers, and outdoor brands. Offer to speak at their events or collaborate.
- Join online communities like Outdoor Women's Alliance or Adventure Travel Trade Association to find opportunities.

6. Promote Yourself.
- Share clips, quotes, and behind-the-scenes moments from your talks on social media.
- Use hashtags like #hikingtalks or #outdoorspeaker to get discovered.

Becoming a hiking speaker is about combining storytelling with purpose. If you've got a message and a love for the trail, there's an audience out there waiting to hear it.

Being a hiking speaker isn't just about having logged miles on the trail. It's about translating those experiences into meaningful messages that resonate with an audience. Here's what you need to get started:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't need to be a record-breaking mountaineer, but you do need authentic experience. Whether it's hiking the Appalachian Trail or exploring urban nature paths, your credibility comes from lived knowledge. Audiences want real stories, not textbook lectures.

2. A Compelling Story or Message
Great hiking speakers connect their outdoor adventures to broader themes: resilience, leadership, sustainability, or mental health. Think of Cheryl Strayed's 'Wild' - her story wasn't just about hiking, it was about healing. Your message should offer value beyond the trail.

3. Public Speaking Skills
You'll need to be comfortable speaking in front of groups, whether in-person or online. Practice storytelling, pacing, and using visuals. Toastmasters, local meetups, or even Instagram Lives can help you sharpen your delivery.

4. A Speaker Platform
A professional speaker page is essential. It should include your bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a way to book you. Tools like Talks.co simplify this process and help you connect with event hosts looking for niche speakers.

5. Tech and Media Assets
High-quality photos, a short speaker reel, and a downloadable one-sheet (PDF overview of your talks) make you look polished and ready. If you're speaking virtually, invest in a good mic, webcam, and lighting.

6. A Network and Online Presence
Engage with outdoor communities, summit organizers, and podcast hosts. Share your insights on LinkedIn, Medium, or YouTube. Visibility leads to bookings.

In short, being a hiking speaker is about combining credibility, clarity, and connection. If you've got a story and a purpose, the rest is learnable.

Yes, hiking speakers do get paid - but how much and how often depends on a few key factors. Let's break it down.

1. Experience and Reputation
New speakers might start with free gigs or honorariums ($50-$200) to build their portfolio. Seasoned speakers with a strong brand and following can command $1,000 to $5,000 per talk, especially at corporate retreats or international events.

2. Type of Event
- Local Meetups or Clubs: Often unpaid or low-fee, but great for practice.
- Outdoor Industry Conferences: These may pay $500-$2,000, especially if you're a published author or influencer.
- Corporate Wellness Retreats: These pay well, often $3,000+, because companies value the mental and physical health insights hiking speakers bring.
- Virtual Summits: Payment varies. Some offer speaker fees, others offer affiliate commissions or exposure.

3. Revenue Model
Some hiking speakers get paid directly by the event. Others earn through back-end sales (books, courses, gear). Talks.co, for example, allows speakers to connect with hosts and monetize their expertise more efficiently.

Pros:
- Flexible income streams.
- Opportunities for brand partnerships.
- Scalable with digital products.

Cons:
- Inconsistent income early on.
- Travel and gear costs can eat into profits.

So yes, hiking speakers get paid - but like any niche, it takes strategy and persistence to make it sustainable.

Hiking speakers earn income through a mix of direct and indirect channels. Let's look at the main revenue streams and how they work across different experience levels.

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct route. Hiking speakers are invited to speak at:
- Outdoor expos and festivals.
- Corporate wellness retreats.
- Schools and universities with outdoor programs.
- Virtual summits (like those hosted on Zoom).

2. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
Many hiking speakers partner with outdoor brands. They earn commissions by recommending gear or receive sponsorships for events.
- Example: A speaker might promote REI gear during a talk and include affiliate links in follow-up emails.

3. Digital Products and Courses
Some speakers create online courses or ebooks about hiking safety, planning, or fitness. These can be sold on their website or platforms like Udemy.
- Example: A course on 'How to Prepare for Your First Thru-Hike' priced at $97.

4. Books and Publications
Publishing a book can be both a credibility booster and a revenue stream. Self-publishing on Amazon or getting a traditional deal are both viable.

5. Consulting or Guiding Services
Experienced hiking speakers sometimes offer one-on-one coaching or group hikes. This adds a hands-on element to their message.

6. Merchandise and Patreon
Some monetize their audience through branded gear or membership platforms like Patreon, offering exclusive content or behind-the-scenes footage.

In short, hiking speakers diversify their income by combining speaking fees with digital and physical products, partnerships, and community support.

The income of hiking speakers varies widely based on experience, audience size, and monetization strategy. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages:

Level	Typical Earnings Per Talk	Annual Income Range
Beginner	$0 - $250	$0 - $5,000
Intermediate	$250 - $1,000	$5,000 - $30,000
Established Expert	$1,000 - $5,000+	$30,000 - $100,000+

Variables That Affect Income:
- Frequency of Talks: A speaker doing 2 talks/month at $1,000 each earns $24,000/year.
- Digital Products: Adding a $97 course that sells 100 copies/year adds $9,700.
- Brand Deals: Sponsorships can range from $500 to $10,000 depending on reach.
Real-World Examples:
- A speaker who focuses on corporate wellness and speaks at retreats may earn $3,000 per session.
- A thru-hiker with a large YouTube following might earn more from affiliate links and Patreon than from speaking gigs.
While it's not always a six-figure path, hiking speakers who build a strong brand and diversify income streams can absolutely make a sustainable living.

If you're looking to hire a hiking speaker, costs can vary quite a bit depending on the speaker's expertise, the event type, and the format (in-person vs. virtual). Here's a general breakdown:

Speaker Tier	Cost Range (Per Talk)	Notes
Emerging Speaker	$0 - $500	Often speaks for exposure or small fees.
Mid-Level Speaker	$500 - $2,000	Some experience, niche audience.
High-Profile Expert	$2,000 - $10,000+	Known author, influencer, or athlete.

Factors That Influence Cost:
- Event Size: Large conferences typically pay more than local meetups.
- Location: International travel or remote venues may require additional fees.
- Customization: Tailored workshops or keynotes often cost more than standard talks.
- Virtual vs. In-Person: Virtual talks are often 30-50% cheaper due to lower logistics.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Travel and accommodation.
- AV or tech requirements.
- Licensing for recorded content.

Here's a list of some of the most iconic hiking speakers ever - people whose stories and insights have inspired thousands to hit the trail or rethink their relationship with nature.

- Cheryl Strayed: Author of 'Wild', her Pacific Crest Trail journey became a cultural phenomenon. Her talks blend vulnerability, adventure, and personal growth.

- Aron Ralston: Known for surviving a canyoneering accident by amputating his own arm, his story (told in '127 Hours') is a gripping tale of survival and mindset.

- Jennifer Pharr Davis: Former record-holder for fastest Appalachian Trail hike. She speaks on endurance, leadership, and balancing family with adventure.

- Colin O'Brady: While more known for polar expeditions, his talks often include hiking and endurance themes. He's a favorite on corporate stages.

- Heather 'Anish' Anderson: A triple crown thru-hiker with speed records. Her talks focus on grit, solitude, and pushing limits.

- Rickey Gates: Known for his 'Every Single Street' project, he combines storytelling, photography, and urban hiking in his talks.

These speakers have transcended the hiking world to become voices on resilience, transformation, and the human spirit. Their talks are often featured at REI events, TEDx stages, and outdoor summits.

Looking globally? These hiking speakers are making waves across continents with their unique perspectives and powerful stories.

- Sarah Marquis (Switzerland): National Geographic Explorer who walked solo across Asia and Australia. Her talks focus on solitude, survival, and deep connection with nature.

- Ray Zahab (Canada): Ultra-distance hiker and founder of impossible2Possible. He speaks about youth empowerment and pushing physical limits.

- Levison Wood (UK): Former British Army officer turned explorer. His hiking expeditions across the Nile and Himalayas are featured in books and documentaries.

- Mireya Mayor (USA/Cuba): National Geographic explorer and anthropologist. While not a traditional hiker, her jungle treks and conservation talks resonate with outdoor audiences.

- Toru Nakajima (Japan): Known in Asia for combining mountaineering with philosophical storytelling. He speaks at universities and adventure festivals.

- Anna McNuff (UK): Adventurer who ran the length of Britain barefoot and cycled across continents. Her talks are high-energy and youth-focused.

- Erik Weihenmayer (USA): First blind person to summit Everest. His talks blend hiking, climbing, and overcoming adversity.

These speakers bring cultural, physical, and philosophical diversity to the hiking world. Whether you're organizing a global summit or looking for fresh inspiration, these voices are worth exploring.

Myth #1: Hiking speakers are just glorified tour guides.

This is a common misconception, especially among those unfamiliar with the niche. While some hiking speakers do incorporate elements of guiding, their primary role is to educate, inspire, or advocate-often using the trail as a stage. Think of someone like Jennifer Pharr Davis, who speaks about endurance, resilience, and conservation after hiking the Appalachian Trail multiple times. Her talks go far beyond trail navigation.

Myth #2: You need to be a professional mountaineer to be a hiking speaker.

Not even close. Many successful hiking speakers come from backgrounds in education, environmental science, storytelling, or even tech. What matters most is your ability to connect your hiking experiences to broader themes-leadership, sustainability, mental health, or personal growth. For example, Rahawa Haile used her solo hike of the Appalachian Trail to speak on race, identity, and access to nature.

Myth #3: There's no real audience for hiking speakers.

Actually, the opposite is true. Outdoor expos, corporate wellness programs, environmental NGOs, and even universities are increasingly booking hiking speakers. The rise in interest around nature therapy, eco-tourism, and climate action has opened up new platforms. Just look at the speaker lineups at events like REI's Outessa or the Adventure Travel World Summit.

Myth #4: It's all about the gear.

Sure, gear reviews and tech tips can be part of a hiking speaker's content, but they're not the core. Audiences are drawn to stories, insights, and actionable takeaways. If your entire talk is a rundown of your favorite boots, you're missing the point. Hiking speakers who thrive are the ones who can turn a trail mishap into a metaphor for resilience or use a summit view to spark a discussion on climate policy.

Myth #5: Hiking speakers can't make a living from it.

While it may not be a fast track to millions, many hiking speakers build sustainable careers by diversifying income streams-keynotes, workshops, books, online courses, and brand partnerships. Take Andrew Skurka, for instance. He parlayed his long-distance hiking expertise into a speaking career, consulting gigs, and a guided trip business. It's not just possible-it's happening.

When Heather 'Anish' Anderson first stepped onto the Pacific Crest Trail, she wasn't thinking about becoming a speaker. She just wanted to hike. But after setting multiple speed records and becoming the first woman to complete the Triple Crown of Hiking in a single calendar year, people started listening. Her talks now blend physical endurance with mental health insights, especially around solitude and self-worth. She's spoken at REI events, universities, and even corporate retreats focused on resilience.

Then there's Akuna Robinson, one of the first Black men to complete the Triple Crown. His story isn't just about miles-it's about representation. After serving in the military and dealing with PTSD, hiking became his therapy. Today, he speaks on the intersection of outdoor access, mental health, and racial equity. His talks have resonated with both outdoor brands and social justice organizations, proving that hiking speakers can bridge communities.

In a different corner of the world, Japanese environmentalist and hiker Kenji Kondo has been using his platform to advocate for forest preservation in rural Japan. His talks, often delivered in community centers and local schools, focus on the cultural and ecological value of traditional hiking routes like the Kumano Kodo. By tying in history, spirituality, and conservation, he's built a loyal following and influenced local policy.

Even in urban settings, hiking speakers are making waves. In São Paulo, Brazil, Mariana Costa leads urban hiking tours that double as social commentaries on public space and environmental justice. Her TEDx talk on 'Hiking as Civic Engagement' went viral in South America. She now consults with city planners and NGOs, showing that hiking speakers aren't confined to wilderness-they can thrive in concrete jungles too.

What unites these speakers isn't just their love of hiking. It's their ability to turn personal journeys into public conversations. Whether it's mental health, environmentalism, or social equity, they use the trail as a launchpad for bigger ideas-and that's what makes them unforgettable.

The landscape for hiking speakers is shifting, and not just because of trail erosion. As more people seek meaning, movement, and mindfulness, hiking speakers are stepping into new roles. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Hybrid Experiences. Expect to see more speakers combining in-person hikes with virtual storytelling. Think guided hikes with live-streamed commentary or augmented reality trail talks. Platforms like AllTrails and Gaia GPS may soon integrate speaker-led content.

- Corporate Wellness Integration. Companies are investing in nature-based wellness programs. Hiking speakers who can tie trail experiences to leadership, burnout recovery, or team-building will find more doors opening. Patagonia and Salesforce have already piloted such programs.

- Localized Storytelling. Global audiences are craving local voices. We'll see more indigenous and rural speakers sharing traditional knowledge and land-based narratives. This isn't just a trend-it's a necessary shift toward inclusivity and authenticity.

- Environmental Advocacy 2.0. With climate anxiety on the rise, hiking speakers are evolving into eco-educators. Talks are becoming more data-informed, with speakers collaborating with scientists and policy experts. Expect more TEDx-style presentations that blend personal stories with climate science.

- Youth Engagement. Gen Z is hiking more and speaking louder. Young voices like Lucy Barnard (walking from Argentina to Alaska) are gaining traction not just for their feats, but for their causes. Future hiking speakers will likely emerge from youth-led climate movements and digital storytelling platforms like TikTok.

In short, the role of the hiking speaker is expanding. It's no longer just about recounting trail tales. It's about connecting the dots between nature, society, and self-and doing it in ways that resonate across platforms and generations.

Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a goldmine for hiking speakers looking to get featured. Filter by niche, pitch your story, and start building your authority through interviews. Tip: Focus on shows that align with your message-whether it's wellness, sustainability, or adventure travel.

The Outbound Collective. A platform for outdoor lovers to share stories, guides, and events. Aspiring hiking speakers can publish articles to build credibility and connect with event organizers. Use it to test your narrative and get feedback from a like-minded community.

SpeakerHub. A directory where you can list your profile, topics, and availability. Great for getting discovered by event planners in the outdoor, wellness, and education sectors. Pro tip: Include a short video clip of you speaking on a trail or at an event.

AllTrails. While not a speaking platform per se, AllTrails can help you research routes and build content around your hikes. Use it to create themed talks-like 'Leadership Lessons from the Rockies' or 'Mindfulness on the Camino de Santiago'.

Canva. For creating polished slide decks, social media posts, and promo materials. Hiking speakers often need visual storytelling to complement their words, and Canva makes it easy-even from a tent with Wi-Fi.

Audacity. A free audio editing tool. If you're recording trail podcasts or narrating your talks, this is essential. Clean up wind noise, add intro music, and publish with confidence.

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). A global network of adventure travel professionals. They host events and summits where hiking speakers can pitch sessions or network with tour operators and NGOs.

Instagram Live & YouTube Shorts. These platforms are increasingly used by hiking speakers to share micro-talks, trail updates, or Q&As. Use them to build your audience and test new ideas before pitching to bigger stages.