Trekking and Hiking - Global Strategic Business Report

The global market for Trekking and Hiking was valued at US$140.6 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$185.9 Million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Trekking and Hiking market.

Global 'Trekking and Hiking' Market - Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Why Are More People Lacing Up Their Boots? The Cultural and Recreational Surge in Trekking and Hiking

In recent years, trekking and hiking have evolved from niche adventure activities into global lifestyle phenomena, attracting diverse demographics spanning from young urban explorers to retirees seeking wellness through nature. This surge is deeply rooted in shifting cultural attitudes toward fitness, mental well-being, and environmental awareness. Consumers increasingly associate time spent in nature with mindfulness, stress reduction, and digital detoxification, particularly in a post-pandemic world marked by remote work and screen fatigue. Urban dwellers, faced with growing mental health challenges, are turning to outdoor excursions as accessible and therapeutic escapes. Moreover, travel culture has dramatically shifted toward experience-based tourism, with trekking routes such as the Inca Trail, Kilimanjaro ascent, and Himalayan treks gaining popularity as must-do adventures. In developing countries, burgeoning middle classes with greater disposable income are fueling domestic hiking trends and visiting international trails. Social media has also played a transformative role, as curated images and videos of breathtaking landscapes inspire aspirational travel and create global visibility for offbeat trekking destinations. Simultaneously, national governments and tourism boards are investing in the development of trekking infrastructure - such as marked trails, eco-lodges, and safety systems - making these activities more accessible, safer, and attractive to the general public.

Is Outdoor Gear Innovation Rewriting the Rules of the Trail? A Look at Equipment, Apparel, and Tech Evolution

The trekking and hiking market has significantly benefited from rapid innovation in gear and apparel, redefining the consumer experience on trails. Advancements in lightweight, breathable, and weather-resistant materials have made clothing and footwear more efficient and versatile across climates and terrains. Smart apparel - such as temperature-regulating jackets, moisture-wicking layers, and GPS-embedded gear - has become increasingly popular among serious hikers and tech-savvy millennials. Footwear companies are investing in biomechanical research to produce ergonomic hiking boots with advanced sole traction, arch support, and blister prevention. The backpack segment, too, has seen major transformation with hydration-compatible, load-distribution-optimized designs gaining traction. Wearable technology like smartwatches and fitness trackers integrated with altimeters, step counters, heart rate monitors, and offline GPS navigation tools are now considered essentials. Drone usage in adventure documentation and safety surveillance is gaining ground, while mobile apps help with route planning, weather updates, and SOS alerts. Meanwhile, sustainable production practices are being integrated into gear manufacturing, with brands increasingly using recycled fabrics, biodegradable packaging, and eco-friendly dyes. These technological and design advancements not only improve comfort and safety but also reflect a broader trend toward responsible and smart adventure travel.

How Are Destinations and Regulations Adapting to the Growing Outdoor Footprint?

As trekking and hiking rise in global popularity, managing environmental and infrastructural pressures has become a key concern for trail-dependent regions. Fragile ecosystems, especially in mountainous and forested terrains, are experiencing footfall beyond their carrying capacity, leading to soil erosion, littering, and wildlife disturbance. In response, several countries have begun implementing regulatory frameworks to balance tourism with ecological preservation. For instance, permits and visitor caps are being enforced on high-demand trails, such as Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit and the U.S. National Parks’ backcountry routes. Eco-tourism models are being promoted, where local communities are trained to provide guiding, accommodation, and food services in a sustainable manner. Additionally, governments and NGOs are collaborating to create awareness about “Leave No Trace” principles and responsible trekking behavior. Urban green corridors, hiking parks, and nature reserves are also being developed near metropolitan centers to offer less invasive alternatives for casual hikers. Furthermore, geopolitical stability and border reopening policies post-COVID have reignited interest in international hiking tourism, prompting countries to invest in better signage, multilingual guides, first-aid facilities, and trail maintenance. These developments aim to ensure a safer, cleaner, and more structured experience for outdoor enthusiasts while safeguarding the ecological integrity of trekking zones.

The Growth in the Trekking and Hiking Market Is Driven by Several Factors

The upward trajectory of the trekking and hiking market is being powered by a combination of behavioral, technological, and geographical growth catalysts. Chief among them is the rising consumer inclination toward fitness, outdoor wellness, and experiential travel, particularly among urban populations in both developed and emerging economies. Secondly, the proliferation of travel content on digital platforms - ranging from vlogs to Instagram stories - has made hiking aspirational and accessible, drawing interest across age groups and nationalities. Thirdly, continual innovation in gear, clothing, and safety equipment has lowered entry barriers and enhanced participation, especially for beginners. Fourth, the expansion of hiking infrastructure - trail networks, eco-lodges, wayfinding systems, and guided tour services - has made remote and high-altitude destinations more reachable. Fifth, national tourism strategies in countries like Japan, Peru, India, and New Zealand are increasingly focusing on sustainable adventure tourism to diversify their economic portfolios and attract long-stay visitors. Sixth, the increased emphasis on mental health and self-care has elevated hiking to a recreational therapy for stress and anxiety, reinforcing its cultural relevance. Lastly, the growth of online booking platforms for trekking packages, combined with modular pricing, seasonal discounts, and group offers, has made hiking tours more organized and commercially viable, significantly expanding their market base. These interlinked dynamics collectively underscore the robust, multidimensional growth of the global trekking and hiking sector.

Report Scope

The report analyzes the Trekking and Hiking market, presented in terms of market value (US$ Thousand). The analysis covers the key segments and geographic regions outlined below.

Segments: Product (Clothes, Footwear, Backpack, Equipment, Other Products).

Geographic Regions/Countries: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; Spain; Russia; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific (Australia; India; South Korea; and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Latin America (Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; and Rest of Latin America); Middle East (Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; United Arab Emirates; and Rest of Middle East); and Africa.

Key Insights:

• Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Clothes segment, which is expected to reach US$75.7 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of a 5.8%. The Footwear segment is also set to grow at 4.3% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $38.3 Million in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 8.8% CAGR to reach $39.2 Million by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Why You Should Buy This Report:

• Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Trekking and Hiking Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
• Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
• Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Trekking and Hiking Market.
• Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.

Key Questions Answered:

• How is the Global Trekking and Hiking Market expected to evolve by 2030?
• What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
• Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
• How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
• Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?

Report Features:

• Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
• In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
• Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Black Diamond Equipment, Columbia Sportswear, Deuter Sport GmbH, Fjällräven, Gossamer Gear and more.
• Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Some of the 42 companies featured in this Trekking and Hiking market report include:

• Black Diamond Equipment
• Columbia Sportswear
• Deuter Sport GmbH
• Fjällräven
• Gossamer Gear
• Gregory Mountain Products
• Kathmandu Ltd.
• L.L.Bean
• Lafuma
• Mammut Sports Group
• Marmot Mountain LLC
• Merrell
• Montbell Co., Ltd.
• Mountain Hardwear
• Osprey Packs, Inc.
• Patagonia, Inc.
• REI Co-op
• Salomon
• The North Face

Tariff Impact Analysis: Key Insights for 2025

Global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries are reshaping supply chains, costs, and competitiveness. This report reflects the latest developments as of April 2025 and incorporates forward-looking insights into the market outlook.

The analysts continuously track trade developments worldwide, drawing insights from leading global economists and over 200 industry and policy institutions, including think tanks, trade organizations, and national economic advisory bodies. This intelligence is integrated into forecasting models to provide timely, data-driven analysis of emerging risks and opportunities.

What's Included in This Edition:

• Tariff-adjusted market forecasts by region and segment
• Analysis of cost and supply chain implications by sourcing and trade exposure
• Strategic insights into geographic shifts

Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with:

• Finalized tariff impacts and new trade agreement effects
• Updated projections reflecting global sourcing and cost shifts
• Expanded country-specific coverage across the industry