The best way to spend time with friends and loved ones right now is to get outside. Luckily the warmer summer months have given us the opportunity to enjoy the company of others while staying safe. 

Itching for a change of scenery from walking around your same old neighborhood every day? Hiking is a wonderful way to get some exercise, see some beautiful sights, and connect with friends (or have some space to yourself). So slather on that sunscreen, lace up your hiking boots, and pack your snacks - let’s get moving!

If you haven’t been on a hike in a while, it’s a good idea to be prepared with plenty of water and fuel for your body. These are some of the best high-energy snacks to bring along with you.

The Best High-Energy Snacks to Bring on a Hike

• Almond butter packets + fruit (or veggies)
  Many health food stores sell almond butter packets that are super easy to grab and take with you. Almond butter contains healthy fats, making it an excellent slow-burning fuel. Eat with apple slices or a banana for an additional burst, as the sugar will quickly convert to energy. If you’re trying to cut back on sugar (aren’t we always?) bring a baggie filled with crunchy cucumber slices or celery sticks instead. 
• Hard-boiled eggs
  It sounds a little strange, but eggs are a wonderful source of protein and super easy to bring along with you. Just peel a hard-boiled egg or two ahead of time, put them in a small plastic container, and sprinkle with salt and True Lemon Pepper Spice Blend. Enjoy! 
• Natural PB&J wrap
  A wrap is easy energy in a pinch! Using a whole wheat or gluten-free tortilla, spread a thin layer of peanut butter. Instead of adding jelly, add some thinly sliced strawberries or blueberries. Roll tightly and place in a baggie. Easy peasy. 
• Beef jerky
  Simple to pack and bring along, jerky will give you a protein-packed punch. Be sure to bring other snacks to munch on though! Since jerky contains a lot of sodium (which will dehydrate you), be sure to limit your intake. 
• BYO trail mix
  In this case, BYO means “build your own”. Pre-made trail mix is fine, but it’s often overpriced and filled with not-as-great additions such as chocolate pieces and peanuts. We can do better! Combine a mixture of your favorite nuts and dried fruit in a bag and make it your own. Fun things to add: dried apricots, banana chips, dried shaved coconut.
• Olives
  Fill a snack bag or container with some drained black or green olives. Olives contain good healthy fats, making them an excellent source of energy. Many grocery stores now even sell pre-packaged single serving bags of olives to have as a snack! These are also pretty high in salt content, so be sure you moderate your quantity. 
• Tuna packets with veggies or crackers
  Another easy and filling snack is tuna fish. Tuna now comes in soft packs or easy-to-open cans, so you can bring it along as a self-contained food. Slice up some red and green peppers or cucumbers (for additional hydration), or scoop with whole-grain crackers.