40 Hairstyles for Your Next Hiking and Backpacking Adventure

Hiking is a great way to exercise while exploring the great outdoors and admiring nature’s beauty. However, comfort and practicality are essential when choosing a hairstyle for your hiking adventure. You want a hairstyle that will keep you cool and comfortable on your hike while not interfering with your enjoyment of the great outdoors.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 40 hiking-friendly hairstyle ideas for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you have long or short hair, curly or straight, there is a hairstyle on this list.

Also, if you’re looking for some hairstyle inspiration for your next beach trip, we’ve something for you to check out: Beachy Keen: 50 Gorgeous Hairstyles for a Day in the Sun

From classic ponytails and braids to messy buns and top knots, these hairstyles are simple to pull off and keep you looking and feeling great while on the trail. So, whether you’re going on a day hike or a multi-day trek, these hairstyles will help you look and feel your best while admiring the natural beauty. Let’s get started and look at 40 great hiking hairstyles!

1. Top Knot for Hiking

This hairstyle keeps hair off your face and neck while hiking. It takes minutes to style. Top knots keep you cool in hot weather. It can be worn high or low. A bandana or headscarf can dress up your top knot. Shorter-haired people can also use the top knot. It’s stylish and functional for hiking.

2. French Braid

The classic French braid keeps hair out of your face and secure while hiking. Once you master it, it’s simple. French braids work for straight and curly hair of any length. This style keeps hair off your neck and back in hot and humid weather. You can braid your hair in a French braid down the middle or on both sides. French braids look great with hats and bandanas. For a more refined trail look, this style is ideal.

Related Article: 38 French Braid Hairstyle Ideas to Try!

3. Dutch Braid

The strands are crossed like the French braid. Hiking with this hairstyle keeps your hair out of your face. This style suits thick, long hair. You can braid your hair in one or two Dutch braids. Dutch braids look great with hats and bandanas. This style is great for hikers who want a unique and trendy look. With practice, it’s easy.

4. Fishtail Braid

A unique and stylish hiking braid. Once you master it, it’s simple. This style suits thin hair and long hair. The fishtail braid is ideal for bohemian or beachy trail looks. It keeps hair off your neck and back in hot and humid weather. You can braid a fishtail down the center of your head or on either side. This style looks great with a sunhat or bandana.

5. Side Braid

The side braid is an easy hiking hairstyle. It’s simple and keeps hair off your face and neck. This style suits thick, long hair. For a laid-back trail look, the side braid is ideal. You can braid both sides of your head or just one. Side braids look great with hats or bandanas. This hairstyle is ideal for hikers who want low-maintenance and comfortable hair.

6. Crown Braid Hiking Hairstyle

This hairstyle keeps hair out of your face and off your neck. Long-haired people who want their hair secure will love this hairstyle. Dutch, French, and waterfall crown braids exist. Hiking with a crown braid is elegant. This hairstyle prevents wind-tangled hair. A crown braid works well with a hat or bandana for hiking. This hairstyle won’t need fixing on the trail.

7. Half-Up, Half-Down Hiking Hairstyle

This versatile hairstyle keeps hair out of your face while leaving some down. This hairstyle is easy to customize for your hair type and length. It’s excellent for trailing with natural curls or waves. Half-up and half-down hairstyles can be formal or casual. A headband or bandana keeps the sweat off your face with this hairstyle. For added security, bobby pins or clips can secure a half-up or half-down hairstyle. Hikers who want a laid-back look should try this hairstyle.

Related Article: 43 Half-up Hairstyles for All Occasions

8. High Ponytail

Hiking’s timeless high ponytail. It removes hair from your face and neck easily. Hats, visors, and sunglasses complement high ponytails. This hairstyle can be done in minutes. Your hair texture and volume determine a high ponytail. This hairstyle keeps hair off your neck, ideal for hot, humid hiking. For texture, braid or twist a high ponytail.

9. Pigtails

Pigtails are a playful hiking hairstyle for all hair types. Long-haired people who want their hair out of their face and neck will love this hairstyle. Pigtails with or without hairbands are up to you. This trail hairstyle showcases any hair color or highlights. Pigtails require little trail maintenance. Hikers who want a youthful, playful look should try this hairstyle. Your hiking outfit and accessories can dress up in pigtails.

10. Hiking-Friendly Double Buns

Double buns are trendy and practical hiking hairstyles. This hairstyle is ideal for medium-to-long-haired people who want to keep their hair off their neck and face. High or low double buns are your choice. This hairstyle looks good with a bandana or hat to block sweat and sun. Simple hair ties and bobby pins make double buns. Hikers who want a playful look should try this hairstyle. For texture, braid or twist double buns.

11. Side Ponytail

This stylish hiking hairstyle keeps hair out of the face. Tie your hair to one side for this hairstyle. Braided ponytails hold better. This hairstyle conceals long hair without tying it. Hats and visors fit over the side ponytail. It’s ideal for hot-weather hikes. Scarf or headband your side ponytail.

12. Waterfall Braid Hiking Hairstyle

Elegant for formal hiking trips. Braiding leaves dropped strands. “Waterfall braid.” Braid a small section of hair on top. Drop small hair sections on the other side and pick up new ones while braiding. Long, wavy hair suits this hairstyle. Practice before hiking. Flowers or other natural elements create a waterfall braid.

13. Rope Braid

Twisting two hair sections together creates it. Twist the rope braid sections in opposite directions. This hairstyle keeps long and short hair out of your face. Small braids or twists make rope braids more complicated. Hats or bandanas complement rope braids. This is a stylish, low-maintenance hairstyle for hikers. Secure the braid ends with a small hair tie.

14. Bubble Ponytail

Bubble ponytails are fun hiking hairstyles. This hairstyle uses small hair ties to create “bubbles” down the ponytail. Long-haired people can make a statement with this hairstyle. Flowers or beads make hair ties more fun. The bubble ponytail is ideal for style-conscious trailblazers. This hairstyle may need daily touch-ups to maintain bubbles. Put bubbles on the ponytail’s top or bottom. Bubble ponytails make hiking fun.

15. Comfortable Knotted Ponytail

This hairstyle is perfect for a long hike. It keeps hair off your face and neck while looking cute and stylish. Knotted ponytails are unique. Medium to long hair suits this hairstyle. To get the look, tie your hair into a low ponytail and knot it above the hairband with bobby pins. The comfy knotted ponytail can be dressed up or down. A headband or scarf adds style and comfort.

16. Twist Braid

This elegant, simple hairstyle is perfect for hiking. It works on curly and straight hair of all lengths. Twist two sections of hair and continue down your hair to achieve the look. Pin or band the braid’s end. Hiking with this hairstyle keeps hair out of your face. Floral headbands and clips add bohemian flair. For a stylish, low-maintenance hairstyle, try the twist braid.

17. Side Twist

This elegant, simple hairstyle is perfect for hiking. It works on curly and straight hair of all lengths. Twist and bobby pin a section of hair on one side of your head to achieve the look. The stylish side twist keeps hair out of your face. Feather hair clips add bohemian flair. This hairstyle is perfect for low-maintenance, chic hair. Wear the side twist on one or both sides of your head.

18. French Fishtail Braid

This intricate and beautiful hairstyle is perfect for hiking. It works best on medium-to-long hair and keeps hair out of your face while hiking. Divide a small section of hair on top of your head into two sections to create the look. Cross a small hair from one section to the other. Repeat on the other side, crossing a small section of hair. Continue adding small hair pieces to each section until your hair is finished. Pin or band the braid’s end.

19. Dutch Fishtail Braid

This unique and stylish hairstyle is perfect for hiking. It works best on medium-to-long hair and keeps hair out of your face while hiking. Divide a small section of hair on top of your head into two sections to create the look. Cross a small piece of hair from one section to the other. Cross a small piece of hair under to the other side and repeat. Continue adding small hair pieces to each section until your hair is ready.

20. French Rope Braid

The classic French rope braid is ideal for hiking because it keeps hair out of your face. Twisting two sections of hair into a rope-like braid creates this hairstyle. The French rope braid is a stylish yet practical hairstyle for any occasion. It’s easy to style. This hairstyle is ideal for medium-to-long hair and keeps hair out of your face while hiking. French rope braids are timeless and perfect for outdoor activities.

21. Dutch Rope Braid

This rope braid is fun and different. Twisting two Dutch braids into a rope-like hairstyle is this hairstyle. Hiking with the Dutch rope braid keeps hair out of your face. This hairstyle is perfect for medium to long hair and keeps hair tidy while hiking. Dutch rope braids are easy to style. Hikers who want to stand out can try this hairstyle. Dutch rope braids can be worn casually or formally.

22. Milkmaid Braid

This classic hairstyle is excellent for hiking because it keeps hair out of your face. Two braids are wrapped around the head to create this crown-like hairstyle. The milkmaid braid keeps long hair out of the way while hiking. This hairstyle is easy to style. Outdoor activities suit the milkmaid braid. This hairstyle can be dressed up or down for a stylish but practical look. The milkmaid braid is adaptable to your style.

23. Double French Braid

This classic hairstyle is excellent for hiking because it keeps hair out of your face. This hairstyle involves two French braids on each side. The double French braid is perfect for trail hair control for medium to long hair. This hairstyle is easy to style. The classic double French braid is ideal for outdoor activities. This hairstyle can be dressed up or down for a stylish but practical look. The double French braid is adaptable to your style.

24. Double Dutch Braid

Hiking-friendly hairstyle. Sporty and stylish Double Dutch Braids. For hot summer hikes, this hairstyle keeps hair off your neck. Ribbons and hair ties can embellish double Dutch braids. For long hikes, this hairstyle distributes weight evenly. Double Dutch Braids can be parted or not. Women with any hair type can wear this hairstyle.

25. Boxer Braids

A stylish hiking hairstyle. Boxer Braids lets you see the view. Hiking with this hairstyle is easy. Boxer braids suit women with thick, long hair. This hairstyle prevents flyaways. A hat or bandana can shade Boxer Braids. This low-maintenance hairstyle will last throughout your hike.

26. Halo Braid

A bohemian style for hiking. Enjoy the view with the Halo Braid. This hairstyle suits women with any hair length and texture. Flowers and hairpins add charm to the Halo Braid. This hairstyle secures hair without frequent adjustments. For the busy hiker, the Halo Braid is easy to make. This hairstyle looks fresh and beautiful on multi-day hikes.

27. Four-Strand Braid Hiking Hairstyle

A complex braid perfect for hiking. A stylish braid variation is the Four-Strand Braid. This windproof hairstyle is ideal for hiking. The Four-Strand Braid distributes weight and relieves scalp tension. This hairstyle is simple to style. The Four-Strand Braid volumizes hair. A headband or scarf adds style and sun protection to this hairstyle.

28. Five-Strand Braid Hiking Hairstyle

A gorgeous and unique braid for hiking. The Five-Strand Braid gives hair texture and style. This hairstyle is easy to maintain on long hikes. Long-haired women love the Five-Strand Braid. This hairstyle secures hair and eliminates adjustments. The Five-Strand Braid gives your hair dimension. Hikers who want to be noticed should try this hairstyle.

29. Inverted Braid

Long-haired hikers can keep their hair out of their faces with the inverted braid. This unique style has a braid underneath the hair. Hiking with the inverted braid keeps hair off the neck and shoulders. Simple steps can create this style for straight or wavy hair. Hikers who want texture can try the inverted braid. This hairstyle is perfect for hikers who want a simple and practical look that stays in place.

30. Braided Crown Bun

The braided crown bun is a chic hiking hairstyle. Hikers can keep their hair off their face and neck with this hairstyle. Braiding hair around the crown and bundling it at the nape create the braided crown bun. Hikers with long or short hair can wear this hairstyle. Hikers who want a feminine and practical look should try the braided crown bun. With practice, you can braid this hairstyle.

31. French Twist Bun

Try the French twist bun for classy hikers. Twisting hair into a bun at the back creates this sleek look. French twist buns protect hikers’ faces and necks. This style suits long, straight, or slightly wavy hair. Practice makes this hairstyle easy to customize with hairpins or flowers.

32. Braided Updo

Hikers will love this stylish and practical hairstyle. This style braids and twists hair into a back-updo. Braiding techniques allow for long or short braided updos. This hairstyle suits feminine, practical hikers. Practice and hairpins or flowers make braided updos easy. Hiking is easy with this hairstyle.

33. Knotted Bun

Hikers love this simple hairstyle. This style knots and buns hair at the nape. The knotted bun keeps hair off hikers’ shoulders. This simple style works for long and short hair. The knotted bun suits casual hikers. Scarves and headbands customize this simple hairstyle.

34. A Low-Side Bun

The low-side bun is a simple, elegant hairstyle for hikers. Hiking with a low-side bun keeps hair out of your face. Long-haired hikers can wear the low-side bun for all-day comfort. Hiking hairstyles include the low-side bun. Hiking and other outdoor activities suit a simple, elegant low-side bun. A low-side bun keeps hair out of your face and looks stylish on the trail.

35. High Bun Hiking Hairstyle

This classic hairstyle keeps hair off your face and neck. Hiking requires a high bun. High buns are stylish and weatherproof for hikers. A high bun lets you enjoy the outdoors without hair worries. Hiking mountains or exploring new trails is easy with the high bun. Enjoy nature with a high bun.

36. Rolled-up Ponytail

This hairstyle is secure and comfortable for hikers. A stylish rolled-up ponytail keeps hair off your face and neck on the trail. Outdoors, roll your ponytail to avoid tangles. For mountain hiking or trail exploring, a rolled-up ponytail is versatile. The rolled-up ponytail is a low-maintenance trail style for medium to long-haired hikers.

37. Top Braid

Top braids are great for long-haired hikers. These braids are stylish and comfortable for hiking. This hairstyle helps you to keep your hair tangle-free while hiking. Hikers can wear a three-strand or fishtail top braid. Top braids are a low-maintenance hairstyle for adventure-seekers.

38. High Side Ponytail

It keeps hair out of your face while hiking. Practical and chic, a high-side ponytail is simple. This easy hairstyle works for short and long hair. Teasing your crown before the ponytail adds volume: Band your high-side ponytail. A bobby pin adds style to wrapping a section of hair around the ponytail base. Hiking with high-side ponytails is classic.

39. Sleek Ponytail

A ponytail keeps hair tidy while hiking. This hairstyle suits casual and formal hiking. Brush frizz before tying your ponytail. Shine with hair oil or serum before styling. Secure your ponytail at the nape with an elastic or scrunchie. Hikers can maintain this hairstyle. A classic ponytail will keep you looking polished while exploring outdoors.

40. Hiking-Friendly Low Messy Bun

A messy bun keeps hair off your neck and face while hiking. Make a messy bun by twisting your hair into a low ponytail. Bobby, pin your bun and leave some strands for a casual look. Hairspray controls frizz. Low messy buns keep hair out of the way while hiking. Hikers will love this easy-care hairstyle.