Father’s Day Gift Ideas For The Hiker Dad
Father’s Day is approaching quickly! We have gathered a list of some of our favorite Father’s Day gift ideas for any hiker dad whether he is an occasional day hiker or planning a long distance trek.
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Maps and Guidebooks
Gift dad with a guidebook for his favorite destination or inspire him to try somewhere new. If you need help choosing a guide for your area, visit your local outfitter and ask which publications they recommend. You can’t go wrong with an AMC publication or a Falcon Guide. Below are some of my favorite guides for hiking destinations in the Northeast U.S.
Hiking Waterfalls in New England: A Guide to the Region’s Best Waterfall Hikes
Best Easy Day Hikes: Berkshires
Backpacking Meals
Dehydrated backpacking meals are the easiest trail food choice and backpackers love trying new meal options and comparing their favorites. Help dad stock up now for the entire backpacking season by treating him to a case of his favorite or let him try something new like Backpacker’s Pantry Dark Chocolate Cheesecake or a Mountain House Ice Cream Sandwich. The follow brands are some that your dad may not have encountered at his local outfitter. Their offerings are unique and include vegan, organic, and paleo options.
Parks Pass
A parks pass is truly a gift that keeps on giving as it can allow dad to visit his favorite parks all year long. The America The Beautiful Pass allows entry into national parks throughout the United States. Many states also offer yearly passes that grant entry to multiple state parks. Below are links to information about these passes in the northeast.
Mid-Weight Hiking Layer
Most hikers would be thrilled to add an additional mid-weight layer to their wardrobe, especially if it versatile enough to be worn regularly off trail as well. Polyester fleece is great but nothing beats merino wool. The SmartWool Echo Lake Half Zip Sweater is a functional outdoor layer that also looks nice enough for Sunday brunch or casual Friday.
Hiking Socks
Hikers can never have enough socks! Socks as gifts definitely get a bad rap but any dad who puts in a lot of miles on trail knows how important it is to take care of his feet. Definitely go with merino wool for comfort, function, and durability. I have linked some favorites below.
SmartWool Hike Medium Crew – a classic
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks – lifetime guarantee!
EMS Fast Mountain Lightweight Merino Wool Crew Socks – my personal go-to
Gift Items For Peakbaggers
No matter which list your dad is working on, there are likely souvenir items available to commemorate his accomplishments. The AMC store is a great place to start for New Hampshire 4000 footers items. Also check out Etsy or your local outfitter.
Take A Hike With Your Dad!
The best gift that you can give your hiker dad is to join him in the outdoors. Wrap up a parks pass or a guide book and then choose a trail to tackle together.
What are you gifting your hiker dad this year? Share your Father’s Day gift ideas in the comments below!