Why Gen Z Is Choosing Hiking Clubs Over Bars and Dating Apps in 2026

Hiking clubs have quietly evolved into a vital social resource for many, surprising those who didn’t realize how much they craved it. What began as a weekend pastime has transformed into a significant movement, attracting Gen Zers aiming to escape the loneliness epidemic, remote workers seeking in-person connections after extended time in front of screens, and daters who are simply tired of apps.

Unlike running groups or happy hours, hiking provides something harder to imitate: relaxed moments together, free from the stress of small talk over drinks. This phenomenon is reshaping how individuals form friendships, create communities, and even discover romance. Here’s what’s driving this rise.

Why Are Hiking Clubs So Popular in 2026?

Hiking clubs are thriving because people, particularly younger generations and remote workers, are eager for genuine community, which book clubs and running groups often lack. The accessibility of hiking is appealing—lower than running, with tangible health benefits, and it fosters plenty of opportunities for conversation.

Carly Smith, chief marketing officer at AllTrails, mentioned to Business Insider that the trend reflects changes in work dynamics. “With more employees working remotely, hiking clubs can cultivate a sense of community that many are missing elsewhere in their lives,” Smith explained.

How Fast Are Hiking Clubs Growing?

According to Strava’s 12th annual Year in Sport report, hiking clubs saw a sixfold increase in 2025, nearly double the growth rate of running clubs, based on data from over 180 million users and a survey of more than 30,000 participants.

AllTrails reported a similar increase. The platform’s 2025 Impact Report highlighted a 20 percent growth in its user base, now reaching 90 million accounts. Many hikers are exploring trails over 200 miles from home, indicating that this boom is also driving travel.

“We see users leveraging our platform for travel planning and navigating National Parks and other destinations,” Smith shared with Business Insider.

Why Are Hiking Clubs Replacing Bars for Gen Z?

Gen Z is drinking less and being more active, and hiking clubs are stepping in to fill the void left by nightlife. Bank of America economists, analyzing expenditure data from 70 million consumer and small-business accounts, found that Gen Z’s spending on fitness increased by about 9 percent, while spending at bars grew by less than 4 percent.

“Younger Americans are leading this movement dubbed ‘The Great Moderation,’” Joe Wadford, an economist at the Bank of America Institute, said to USA TODAY.

Florist Jeb Jagne, who began his own hiking group after friends relocated, told Refinery29 that this shift is generational. “There’s much talk about our age group’s disinterest in drinking. I used to connect with many friends through nightlife. Now, if you move to a new city, aren’t interested in going out, and have a new job, finding friends can be challenging. Where do you go to meet new people?” Jagne mused.

Are Singles Finding Love in Hiking Clubs?

Indeed, hiking trails are becoming a dating alternative free from the pressures of traditional encounters. Singles fed up with apps are participating in group hikes to meet others in person.

“A hike offers singles a way to connect and converse in a non-intimidating environment. Shared outdoor experiences can facilitate natural conversations,” explained Robi Ludwig, a psychotherapist in New York City, to the New York Post.

Ludwig added that even those who don’t find a romantic partner still expand their social circles. “Regardless, you’re introduced to a whole new community. When you’re single, widening your social network is beneficial. You might be surprised at the positive effects,” she noted.