Enjoy hiking? See what a study says about cannabis
Cannabis on the trail is part of the experience for many hikers. Discover what the research reveals and what lies behind this habit!
A walk among the trees, the sound of birds, and the desire to slow down. For some hikers in the United States, cannabis is part of that experience. A survey of 1,008 adult hikers revealed that 35% have already hiked under the influence of the substance. But what drives this behavior, and what are the risks involved?
Cannabis on the trail: what does the research say?
A survey released in October 2026 by the expedition company Climbing Kilimanjaro polled 1,008 American adults who hike.
The survey found that 35% had already hiked under the influence of cannabis, making it the most frequently mentioned substance among the options investigated.
The results were published by the news outlet Marijuana Moment. According to the survey, 44% of respondents have hiked under the influence of a substance, while 56% stated they have never turned to them while on the trails.
The data reveals a behavior reported by a portion of hikers, but it does not prove that cannabis improves physical performance or makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Why does cannabis on the trail attract hikers?
The survey also investigated the motivations of those who consume substances while hiking. Among respondents who reported this behavior, 48% said they sought a more intense perception of the landscape, while 45% stated they wanted to feel more connected to nature.
Another 23% reported turning to these substances to calm their nerves or cope with fears, such as heights or exposed sections.
Climbing Kilimanjaro consultant Justin Mtui commented on the phenomenon to Marijuana Moment. In his view, some hikers look for additional ways to enjoy the scenery, unwind, and feel connected to the natural environment.
It is important, however, to distinguish individual perception from a scientifically proven benefit. The percentages represent participants' answers, not a clinical evaluation of the effects of cannabis.
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Cannabis on the trail: what are the risks?
The feeling of relaxation reported by some does not eliminate the risks of hiking under the influence of psychoactive substances. Cannabis can impair attention, perception, motor coordination, and reaction time—abilities that are crucial for preventing falls and recognizing hazards on uneven terrain.
In the survey, 51% of participants who reported using substances during hikes said they do so on short, easy trails close to home. Only 5% mentioned use during climbs or steep, technical routes.
The poll also identified boundaries set by the participants themselves: 57% would avoid consuming substances on steep or exposed terrain, and 51% would not do so at high altitudes.
Furthermore, 19% of respondents who hiked under the influence said they had done something they would not attempt while sober. These situations included covering longer distances than planned and choosing more difficult paths.
The results reinforce the importance of considering the context and risks of each activity, rather than interpreting the popularity of the behavior as a sign of safety.
Cannabis and outdoor activities: what should you consider?
The survey did not evaluate cannabis as a medical treatment, nor did it show that its use is necessary to enjoy nature activities. Nor does it allow for the conclusion that the reported effects are consistent across individuals, products, or dosages.
For hikers, certain precautions are essential:
- Prioritize safety: pay close attention to obstacles, trail markers, and terrain changes.
- Avoid driving impaired: changes in attention and reaction time can compromise driving ability.
- Respect physical limits: fatigue, dehydration, and environmental conditions require attention throughout any hike.
- Consider individual effects: the response to cannabis varies and may include anxiety, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
Individuals using medical cannabis should consult a healthcare professional regarding its effects and potential interactions, especially when planning activities that require balance, focus, and physical exertion.
LEARN MORE: Do cannabis and mental health work together? Science answers
What does the data reveal about cannabis on the trail?
The survey shows that cannabis is already part of the experience for some American hikers, particularly those who associate its use with relaxation and contemplating the landscape.
Still, a survey based on self-reported answers does not prove therapeutic benefits or performance enhancement. To understand how the substance affects outdoor experiences, specific research into its effects, safety, and individual differences is required.
On the trail, as in so many experiences of connecting with nature, enjoying the journey also means recognizing your own limits and keeping safety first.