Embark on an epic adventure from the comfort of your living room with our list of the 15 Best Hiking Movies to Watch in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for some inspiration or just someone who loves a good outdoor film, these movies are sure to take you on a thrilling journey through breathtaking landscapes and heart-pounding challenges. Grab your popcorn and get ready to hit the trail with these must-watch hiking films.
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Introduction to Hiking Movies
Embark on an exhilarating cinematic journey through rugged trails, breathtaking vistas, and the indomitable spirit of human endurance with the 15 best hiking movies to watch in 2024! For avid hikers and adventure enthusiasts alike, these films offer a thrilling escape into the wilderness from the comfort of your living room. Whether you seek inspiration for your next outdoor excursion or simply crave a dose of adrenaline-fueled storytelling, these hiking movies are sure to captivate and inspire. So grab your popcorn, lace up your virtual boots, and get ready for some epic trail tales that will leave you yearning for adventure.
Benefits of Watching Hiking Movies for Avid Hikers
For avid hikers, watching hiking movies offers more than just entertainment, it provides inspiration and motivation. These films can ignite a sense of wanderlust and fuel the desire to explore new trails and destinations. By immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes captured on screen, you can mentally escape to the great outdoors even when you’re stuck indoors.
Hiking movies also offer valuable insights into different hiking experiences, challenges faced by adventurers, survival techniques, and the beauty of nature. They can expand your knowledge about various terrains, climates, flora, and fauna that exist in different parts of the world. Additionally, watching these films can help you learn from characters’ mistakes or successes in navigating through rugged terrain or dealing with unexpected situations.
Moreover, hiking movies often convey powerful messages about self-discovery, resilience, determination, and personal growth. They showcase how individuals overcome obstacles during their journeys and emerge stronger from their outdoor adventures. These stories can resonate with hikers on a deep level and remind them of the transformative power of nature exploration.
Criteria for Choosing the 15 Best Hiking Movies
When it comes to selecting the top hiking movies, there are certain criteria that can help narrow down the list. One key aspect to consider is the portrayal of the hiking experience itself, does the movie capture the essence of being out in nature and facing challenges on the trail?
Another factor to take into account is character development, do you find yourself rooting for the hikers as they embark on their journey? A compelling storyline can make a hiking movie truly memorable.
Furthermore, cinematography plays a crucial role in immersing viewers in the beauty of the outdoors. Stunning visuals can transport audiences to different landscapes and make them feel like they’re right there on the trail alongside the characters.
Lastly, authenticity is important, accurate depictions of hiking culture and practices can elevate a movie from good to great. Keep these criteria in mind when exploring which hiking movies to add to your watchlist.
List of 15 Best Hiking Movies
1: Into the Wild (2007)
Director: Sean Penn
Producer: Art Linson, Sean Penn, Bill Pohlad
Year of Release: 2007
Story: Based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, “Into the Wild” follows the journey of a young man who abandons his possessions, gives his savings to charity, and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. His quest for freedom and adventure leads him to stunning landscapes and profound encounters, but also to life-threatening challenges. This is one of the most iconic movies about hiking and self-discovery.
2: Wild (2014)
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Producer: Reese Witherspoon, Bruna Papandrea
Year of Release: 2014
Story: “Wild” is an inspiring tale of Cheryl Strayed, who embarks on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail in a bid to recover from personal tragedy and turmoil. The film showcases her physical and emotional journey, making it one of the best movies about hiking and resilience. Reese Witherspoon’s compelling performance earned her an Academy Award nomination.
3: Everest (2015)
Director: Baltasar Kormákur
Producer: Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Nicky Kentish Barnes, Baltasar Kormákur
Year of Release: 2015
Story: “Everest” is based on the real events of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. The film portrays the harrowing experience of two expedition groups as they attempt to survive a severe snowstorm on the world’s highest peak. This intense and dramatic movie about hiking highlights the extreme challenges and dangers faced by climbers.
4: The Peanut Butter Falcon
Directors: Tyler Nilson, Michael Schwartz
Producers: Albert Berger, Ron Yerxa, Christopher Lemole, Tim Zajaros
Year of Release: 2019
Story: While not a traditional hiking movie, “The Peanut Butter Falcon” features an adventure-filled journey that resonates with outdoor enthusiasts. It follows Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, who runs away from a residential nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. Along the way, he forms an unlikely friendship with Tyler, a small-time outlaw, leading to heartwarming and humorous escapades.
5: Arctic (2019)
Director: Joe Penna
Producers: Noah C. Haeussner, Christopher Lemole, Tim Zajaros
Year of Release: 2019
Story: “Arctic” tells the story of a man stranded in the Arctic after a plane crash, struggling to survive the harsh conditions while awaiting rescue. His journey through the frozen wilderness tests his endurance and willpower. This gripping hiking movie captures the essence of human survival against nature’s most brutal elements.
6: Sherpa (2015)
Director: Jennifer Peedom
Producers: Bridget Ikin, John Smithson
Year of Release: 2015
Story: “Sherpa” provides a unique perspective on the Everest climbing experience by focusing on the Sherpas, the indigenous people who guide and support climbers. The documentary explores their culture, the risks they face, and the 2014 avalanche that killed 16 Sherpas. This insightful movie about hiking sheds light on the often-overlooked heroes of Everest expeditions.
7: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Director: Ben Stiller
Producers: Samuel Goldwyn Jr., John Goldwyn, Stuart Cornfeld, Ben Stiller
Year of Release: 2013
Story: “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” is a whimsical adventure film about a daydreamer who embarks on a global journey to find a missing photograph negative. His travels take him through breathtaking landscapes, including the rugged terrains of Iceland and the Himalayas. This enchanting hiking movie combines fantasy with real-life adventure, encouraging viewers to step out of their comfort zones.
8: Touching the Void (2003)
Director: Kevin Macdonald
Producers: John Smithson
Year of Release: 2003
Story: “Touching the Void” is a harrowing documentary-drama that recounts the survival story of climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates. During their descent of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes, disaster strikes, leaving Simpson seriously injured. The film masterfully combines reenactments with interviews, creating a gripping narrative of resilience and the human will to survive. This is a must-watch movie about hiking and survival.
9: Meru (2015)
Directors: Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi
Producers: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin, Shannon Ethridge, Anna Barnes
Year of Release: 2015
Story: “Meru” follows the perilous journey of three elite climbers—Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, and Renan Ozturk, as they attempt to conquer the Shark’s Fin on Mount Meru in India. The film captures their struggles against extreme conditions, personal challenges, and the sheer physical and mental demands of high-altitude climbing. It’s an exhilarating hiking movie on Netflix that showcases human determination.
10. Six Million Steps: A Journey Inward (2011)
Director: David Breashears
Producers: David Breashears
Year of Release: 2011
Story: “Six Million Steps: A Journey Inward” is a deeply introspective documentary that follows a diverse group of people as they hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Spanning over 2,600 miles from Mexico to Canada, the trail offers a backdrop for personal growth and transformation. The film beautifully captures the physical and emotional challenges of long-distance hiking.
11. A Walk in the Woods (2014)
Director: Ken Kwapis
Producers: Chip Diggins, Bill Holderman, Robert Redford
Year of Release: 2014
Story: Based on Bill Bryson’s memoir, “A Walk in the Woods” is a comedic adventure that follows Bryson (Robert Redford) and his friend Katz (Nick Nolte) as they attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail. Their journey is filled with humorous mishaps, beautiful scenery, and poignant reflections on friendship and aging. This movie about hiking offers a delightful mix of humor and heart.
12. Wildlike (2014)
Director: Frank Hall Green
Producers: Julie Christeas, Schuyler Weiss, Frank Hall Green, Joseph Stephans
Year of Release: 2014
Story: “Wildlike” tells the story of a troubled teenage girl, Mackenzie, who runs away from her abusive uncle while on a trip to Alaska. As she navigates the wilderness, she encounters a solitary backpacker who becomes an unlikely ally. Their journey through Alaska’s stunning landscapes provides a backdrop for healing and self-discovery. This hiking movie is both suspenseful and touching.
13. The Ritual (2017)
Director: David Bruckner
Producers: Jonathan Cavendish, Richard Holmes, Andy Serkis
Year of Release: 2017
Story: “The Ritual” is a horror film that follows four friends who reunite for a hiking trip in the Swedish wilderness. What begins as a journey to honor a deceased friend quickly turns into a nightmare as they encounter an ancient evil lurking in the forest. This movie about hiking blends psychological terror with supernatural elements, making for a chilling viewing experience.
14. Snow to Sand (2019)
Director: J.J. Kelley
Producers: J.J. Kelley
Year of Release: 2019
Story: “Snow to Sand” is a documentary that chronicles a 1,200-mile trek from the snowy peaks of Utah to the sandy deserts of Arizona. The film captures the diverse landscapes and the endurance required to complete such a demanding journey. It’s an inspiring hiking movie that showcases the beauty and challenge of long-distance hiking.
15. The Dark Divide (2020)
Director: Tom Putnam
Producers: Tom Putnam, Joelle Jacoby
Year of Release: 2020
Story: “The Dark Divide” is based on the true story of renowned butterfly expert Dr. Robert Pyle, who embarks on a month-long hike through Washington’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The journey, filled with natural wonders and personal reflections, helps him cope with the loss of his wife. This movie about hiking is a poignant exploration of grief, healing, and the transformative power of nature.
These films offer a mix of true stories, dramatic rescues, and heartwarming adventures, making them some of the best hiking movies available. Whether you’re in search of Netflix hiking movies or simply a great movie about hiking, these titles are sure to inspire your next adventure.
Reasons to Watch Hiking Movies While Planning Your
Incorporating hiking movies into your watchlist can provide inspiration, motivation, and a sense of adventure, even from the comfort of your home. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, these 15 best hiking movies offer a captivating escape into the world of exploration and self-discovery. So grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and let these films transport you to breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable journeys.
Conclusion
Hiking movies capture the spirit of adventure, the beauty of nature, and the resilience of the human spirit. From true stories of survival and personal transformation to epic fictional journeys, these films inspire us to explore the world around us and push our limits. Whether you’re planning your next outdoor adventure or simply looking for some cinematic inspiration, these 15 best hiking movies are sure to provide both entertainment and motivation.
Don’t forget to check out these hiking movies on Netflix and other streaming platforms to experience the thrill of the great outdoors from the comfort of your home. Happy hiking and happy watching.