Five Star Gift Ideas

For your friend who enjoys extreme hiking and thru-hiking long-distance trails, there are several gift ideas to consider that would enhance their passion for outdoor adventures. Here are some meaningful and personal gift options:

1. Hiking Gear: Help your friend stay prepared and comfortable during their hikes by gifting them high-quality outdoor gear. Consider items such as a durable backpack, lightweight tent, sleeping bag, or a reliable pair of hiking boots. Research brands that are known for their excellent performance in extreme conditions.

2. Navigation and Safety Tools: Safety always comes first when exploring remote areas. Give your friend practical tools like a reliable compass, multi-tool, or a first-aid kit. Consider getting them a quality GPS device or a satellite communication device to ensure they stay on track and can call for help if needed.

3. Thru-Hiking Guidebooks: Inspire your friend's next adventure by providing them with guidebooks that detail various long-distance trails around the world. Choose titles that focus on the routes they may be interested in, such as the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, or Camino de Santiago. These guidebooks often include tips, trail maps, and inspirational stories from experienced hikers.

4. Outdoor Apparel: Help your friend stay comfortable and protected from the elements with high-performance outdoor apparel. Look for moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothing options, UV-protective shirts, and lightweight waterproof jackets. Don't forget essentials like hiking socks, a hat, and gloves for extreme weather conditions.

5. Trail Food and Cooking Gear: Nutritious and lightweight trail food is important for long hikes. Consider gifting your friend a selection of dehydrated meals, energy bars, and snacks specifically designed for outdoor activities. Additionally, compact camping stoves or portable cookware sets can enhance their culinary experience on the trail.

6. Adventure Journal or Scrapbook: Help your friend document their hiking experiences with a personalized adventure journal or scrapbook. Include some memorable quotes, inspirational photographs, and leave blank spaces for them to add their own stories and photographs from their hikes.

7. Hiking Photography Accessories: If your friend enjoys capturing moments on their hiking adventures, consider accessories that will enhance their photography skills. Tripods, lens filters, or even a GoPro can be excellent gift options for capturing stunning landscapes and memorable moments on the trail.

8. Inspiring Books and Documentaries: Expand your friend's knowledge and inspire their love for hiking with books and documentaries about famous trails, mountaineering, or hiking adventures. Some popular titles include "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed, "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer, or documentaries like "Mile… Mile & a Half" about the John Muir Trail.

9. Trail Maintenance Donations: Help preserve the trails that your friend loves by making a donation to organizations dedicated to trail maintenance and conservation efforts. This gesture not only supports their passion but also contributes to the sustainability and preservation of natural resources for future hikers.

10. Thru-hiking-related Events or Experiences: Surprise your friend with an unforgettable experience related to their passion for thru-hiking. Consider booking them a spot in a guided hiking tour, registration for a challenging trail race, or even a subscription to a hiking magazine to keep them inspired throughout the year.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a gift that reflects your friend's love for extreme hiking and shows that you appreciate their adventurous spirit. Personalized and thoughtful gifts like these will undoubtedly make their Christmas extra special.

Or you can get her/him a star map with an important date you share.

Elaine Bornemeier says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“These are fabulous. They are gifts, so excited for my daughters to receive them for Christmas! Thank you!”