Top 10 Backpacking Youtubers to Watch in 2025

Jessica Li
Chief of Staff

In this article, we'll dive into the Top 10 Backpacking YouTubers, showcasing some of the most inspiring creators in the community. We'll highlight adventurers like Darwin on the Trail, Homemade Wanderlust, Second Chance Hiker, JupiterHikes, and Miyagi on the Trail, among others.

1. Darwin on the Trail

Who is Darwin on the Trail?

Darwin on the Trail, whose real name is not publicly disclosed, is a prominent YouTube creator known for his engaging content on hiking and outdoor adventures. He launched his channel on July 25, 2015, and has since amassed a substantial following by sharing trip videos, gear reviews, and hiking tips. For more about his journey, visit Darwin on the Trail.

Darwin on the Trail is based in the United States, where he creates content focused on hiking and outdoor adventures.

Audience

The audience for Darwin on the Trail primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and backpackers who are keen on long-distance hiking and gear reviews. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "Gear I Carry on a Day Hike" and "Gear I Won't Hike Without," both of which have garnered over a million views, reflecting a strong interest in practical hiking advice and equipment.

Key Metrics

Darwin on the Trail's YouTube channel showcases impressive statistics:

  • Engagement Rate: 4.01%
  • Subscribers: 331K
  • Average Video Length: 14.82 minutes
  • Video Views: 46.9M

Content Focus

  • Darwin on the Trail creates gear reviews that provide in-depth analysis and recommendations for hiking equipment.
  • The channel features trip videos documenting various thru-hikes on trails like the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail.
  • Darwin on the Trail also offers hiking tips and tricks through Q&A sessions and instructional videos aimed at both novice and experienced hikers.

2. Homemade Wanderlust

Who is Homemade Wanderlust?

Homemade Wanderlust, managed by Jessica Mills, also known as Dixie, is a YouTube channel dedicated to long-distance thru-hiking and backpacking adventures. She joined the platform on March 31, 2015, and has since captivated a large audience with her detailed documentation of trails and insightful gear reviews. For more about her journey, visit Homemade Wanderlust.

Homemade Wanderlust, managed by Dixie, is based in Opelika, Alabama, United States.

Audience

The audience for Homemade Wanderlust primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about long-distance hiking and backpacking. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "Backpacking Basics: Everything You Need To Know To Start Backpacking" and "Continental Divide Trail Documentary: CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE," both of which have garnered significant views, reflecting a strong interest in comprehensive hiking guides and trail documentaries.

Key Metrics

Homemade Wanderlust's YouTube channel showcases impressive statistics:

  • Engagement Rate: 6.82%
  • Subscribers: 434K
  • Average Video Length: 25.96 minutes
  • Video Views: 89.94M

Content Focus

  • Homemade Wanderlust creates hiking documentaries that capture the essence of long-distance thru-hiking on trails like the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail.
  • The channel offers gear reviews and backpacking tips, providing valuable insights into essential equipment and practical advice for both novice and experienced hikers.
  • Homemade Wanderlust also shares personal experiences and stories from various trails, aiming to inspire viewers to embark on their own hiking adventures.

3. Second Chance Hiker

Who is Second Chance Hiker?

Second Chance Hiker, whose real name is not publicly disclosed, is a YouTube creator known for his inspiring journey of weight loss and hiking adventures. He joined the platform on January 28, 2019, and has since captivated viewers with his personal transformation and outdoor experiences. For more about his journey, visit Second Chance Hiker.

Second Chance Hiker is based in the United States, with content featuring various locations, including Thailand and Denali National Park in Alaska.

Audience

The audience for Second Chance Hiker primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts and individuals interested in personal transformation and fitness journeys. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "I Think I Should Quit? 200 Pounds Overweight. The Pacific Crest Trail," which has garnered 119K views, and "Escaping A Flash Flood Thailand," which has 3.3K views, reflecting a strong interest in both hiking adventures and weight loss stories.

Key Metrics

Second Chance Hiker's YouTube channel showcases impressive statistics:

  • Engagement Rate: 8.48%
  • Subscribers: 24.7K
  • Average Video Length: 11.15 minutes
  • Video Views: 3.79M

Content Focus

  • Second Chance Hiker creates weight loss journey videos that document the creator's personal transformation and fitness progress.
  • The channel features hiking adventure content, showcasing various trails and outdoor experiences in locations like Thailand and Denali National Park.
  • Second Chance Hiker also produces lifestyle change videos, offering insights and inspiration for viewers interested in making significant life changes.

4. JupiterHikes

Who is JupiterHikes?

JupiterHikes, a YouTube channel dedicated to long-distance hiking and ultralight backpacking, was launched on February 10, 2016. The creator, whose real name is not publicly disclosed, shares personal hiking experiences and expertise from over 18,000 miles of thru-hiking. For more about his journey, visit JupiterHikes.

JupiterHikes is based in the United States, with content featuring various hiking trails across the country.

Audience

The audience for JupiterHikes primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about long-distance hiking and ultralight backpacking. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "Backpacking Gear I'll Never Carry Again," which has 661K views, and "100 Tips For An Ultralight Backpack," which has 657K views, reflecting a strong interest in practical gear advice and hiking tips.

Key Metrics

JupiterHikes is a YouTube channel dedicated to long-distance hiking and ultralight backpacking.

  • Subscribers: 87.6K
  • Average Video Length: 21 minutes and 46 seconds
  • Video Views: 661K

Content Focus

  • JupiterHikes creates gear lists that provide detailed recommendations and reviews of ultralight backpacking equipment.
  • The channel features hiking documentaries that capture the essence of long-distance thru-hiking on various trails.
  • JupiterHikes also offers tips and advice for thru-hiking, sharing valuable insights and techniques for both novice and experienced hikers.

5. Miyagi on the Trail

Who is Miyagi on the Trail?

Miyagi on the Trail, whose real name is not publicly disclosed, is a YouTube creator known for his engaging outdoor adventure content. He joined the platform on February 10, 2016, and has since built a dedicated following with his detailed hiking and camping videos. For more about his journey, visit Miyagi on the Trail.

Miyagi on the Trail is based in the United States, with content featuring various hiking and camping locations across the country.

Audience

The audience for Miyagi on the Trail primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping and hiking. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "Cotton Canvas Hot Tent Camping - Boundary Waters," which showcases winter camping techniques, and "Red River Gorge's Cloud Splitter Loop - Exploring Arches & Indian Staircase," reflecting a strong interest in exploring unique natural landscapes.

Key Metrics

Miyagi on the Trail is a YouTube channel dedicated to outdoor activities, particularly camping and hiking.

  • Subscribers: 3.66K
  • Average Video Length: 33 minutes
  • Video Views: 1.1K

Content Focus

  • Miyagi on the Trail creates camping and hiking adventure videos, showcasing unique outdoor experiences in various locations like the Boundary Waters and Red River Gorge.
  • The channel features gear reviews and tutorials, providing insights into camping equipment and techniques for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Miyagi on the Trail also shares personal stories and experiences from different trails, aiming to inspire viewers to explore the great outdoors.

6. Sintax77

Who is Sintax77?

Sintax77, whose real name is not publicly disclosed, is a YouTube creator known for his engaging content on backpacking, hiking, camping, and outdoor gear. He joined the platform on September 9, 2007, and has since built a substantial following by sharing detailed videos on various outdoor adventures. For more about his journey, visit Sintax77.

Sintax77 is based in the United States, with content featuring various hiking and camping locations across the country.

Audience

The audience for Sintax77 primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about backpacking, hiking, and camping. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "Winter Camping & Backpacking Trips," which showcases techniques for cold-weather adventures, and "Backpacking with our Dog Videos," reflecting a strong interest in incorporating pets into outdoor activities.

Key Metrics

Sintax77's YouTube channel is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of content on backpacking, hiking, camping, and gear.

  • Subscribers: 133K
  • Average Video Length: 1 hour and 38 minutes
  • Video Views: 4.9M

Content Focus

  • Sintax77 creates backpacking, hiking, and camping trip videos, showcasing various outdoor adventures and experiences.
  • The channel features gear reviews and lists, providing detailed insights and recommendations on essential outdoor equipment.
  • Sintax77 also offers backpacking tips and strategy videos, sharing practical advice and planning techniques for outdoor enthusiasts.

7. Craig Adams

Who is Craig Adams?

Craig Adams, a YouTube creator known for his engaging content on FIFA 22 gameplay, joined the platform on an unspecified date. His channel features videos like "FIFA 22_20211104213037" and "Fifa 22 Rivals, improvements?" which showcase his gaming skills and insights. For more about his journey, visit Craig Adams.

Craig Adams is based in the United States, with his content featuring various hiking and camping locations across the country.

Audience

The audience for Craig Adams primarily consists of gaming enthusiasts, particularly those interested in FIFA 22 gameplay. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "FIFA 22_20211104213037" and "Fifa 22 Rivals, improvements?", reflecting a niche interest in FIFA 22-related videos.

Key Metrics

Craig Adams is a YouTube creator known for his engaging content on FIFA 22 gameplay.

  • Average Video Length: 18 minutes and 46 seconds
  • Video Views: 10

Content Focus

Craig Adams creates content primarily focused on:

  • FIFA 22 Gameplay: Showcasing his skills and strategies in the popular video game FIFA 22.
  • Game Improvements: Discussing potential improvements and updates for FIFA 22, providing insights and suggestions.
  • In-Depth Game Sessions: Producing long-form videos that offer detailed coverage of gameplay, reflecting a thorough and immersive approach.

8. Adventure Archives

Who is Adventure Archives?

Adventure Archives is a YouTube channel dedicated to outdoor adventures, including camping, hiking, and bushcraft, created by Andrew Lin, Bryan, Thomas, and Robby Huang. The channel, which offers a mix of full episodes, mini-episodes, side videos, and podcasts, joined YouTube on January 2, 2009. For more about their journey, visit Adventure Archives.

Adventure Archives is based in the United States, with the creators hailing from Ohio and Indiana.

Audience

The audience for Adventure Archives primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about backpacking, hiking, and camping. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "40 Miles Alone on the Timberline Trail," which has garnered 1.9M views, and "Backpacking in the Canyons of the Tetons," which has 140,584 views in just two weeks, reflecting a strong interest in immersive outdoor adventures and detailed gear recommendations.

Key Metrics

Adventure Archives is a YouTube channel dedicated to outdoor adventures, including backpacking, hiking, and camping.

  • Subscribers: 219K
  • Average Video Length: 2 hours, 36 minutes
  • Video Views: 1.9M

Content Focus

  • Outdoor Adventures: Adventure Archives creates content focused on camping, hiking, and bushcraft through the backcountry, exploring wilderness areas and sharing thoughts and beautiful scenery of nature.
  • Travel Vlogs and Gear Reviews: The channel produces travel vlogs documenting their journeys to various natural landscapes, along with detailed gear reviews and recommendations.
  • Podcasts and Mini-Episodes: Adventure Archives also offers podcasts discussing their adventures and mini-episodes that include bushcraft tips, plant identification, and shorter adventures.

9. MyLifeOutdoors

Who is MyLifeOutdoors?

MyLifeOutdoors, run by Steven, is a YouTube channel dedicated to backpacking gear and outdoor adventures. Steven joined the platform on January 31, 2010, and has since built a substantial following by sharing his passion for the outdoors. For more about his journey, visit MyLifeOutdoors.

MyLifeOutdoors, run by Steven, is based in the United States, with a primary focus on backpacking gear and outdoor adventures.

Audience

The audience for MyLifeOutdoors primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts and backpackers who are passionate about gear reviews and trip reports. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "Your Gear is Poisoning You! (Not Clickbait)," which has 2M views, and "The Most Overlooked Natural Wonder in the World!" with 851K views, reflecting a strong interest in both gear insights and unique outdoor experiences.

Key Metrics

MyLifeOutdoors, run by Steven, is a YouTube channel dedicated to backpacking gear and outdoor adventures.

  • Subscribers: 433K
  • Average Video Length: 9.94 minutes
  • Video Views: 2M

Content Focus

  • Backpacking Gear Reviews: MyLifeOutdoors provides detailed reviews and tests of various backpacking gear, offering insights and recommendations for both beginner and experienced backpackers.
  • Trip Reports and Personal Experiences: The channel features recounts of backpacking trips, sharing personal stories and experiences from the trail to inspire and educate viewers.
  • Backpacking Tips and Tricks: MyLifeOutdoors offers practical advice and tips on topics like ultralight setups, traditional load-outs, and safety concerns, helping viewers enhance their backpacking skills.

10. The Outdoor Gear Review

Who is The Outdoor Gear Review?

JupiterHikes, whose real name is not publicly disclosed, is a YouTube creator dedicated to long-distance hiking and ultralight backpacking. He joined the platform on February 10, 2016, and has since shared his extensive hiking experiences and expertise from over 18,000 miles of thru-hiking. For more about his journey, visit The Outdoor Gear Review.

TheOutdoorGearReview is based in the United States, with its operations likely centered within the country.

Audience

The audience for The Outdoor Gear Review primarily consists of outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers who are passionate about hiking, backpacking, and camping. Specific examples include viewers who engage with content like "The Most Expensive Military Tent in the World - Nemo The ALCS 1P SE," which has 4.9M views, and "2 Feet of Snow, 3 Days in the Forest - Overnight Adventure," reflecting a strong interest in detailed gear reviews and immersive outdoor experiences.

Key Metrics

TheOutdoorGearReview is a YouTube channel dedicated to outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, and adventure.

  • Subscribers: 664K
  • Average Video Length: 29:52 minutes
  • Video Views: 4.9M

Content Focus

  • Gear Reviews: The Outdoor Gear Review provides detailed reviews and tests of various outdoor equipment, offering insights and recommendations for hikers, backpackers, and adventure seekers.
  • Outdoor Adventure Videos: The channel features immersive content showcasing hiking, backpacking, and camping trips, often in challenging weather conditions.
  • Breaking Outdoor News: The Outdoor Gear Review also covers significant news and updates related to outdoor gear and the outdoor industry, keeping viewers informed about the latest developments.

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