Meet your guides.
I’m Shawn…
Shawn, one of the hosts of ‘Shawn & Mike Take A Hike,’ discovered his passion for hiking later in life, although his interest sparked during his teenage years. As a lifelong Midwesterner, Shawn brings a unique perspective to the podcast, combining his deep-rooted love for nature with practical hiking advice. Currently residing in Michigan with his husband and two dogs, Shawn is a fervent advocate for the Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that nature remains pristine for future generations. His dedication to preserving the environment and his infectious enthusiasm make him a reliable source for hiking tips, gear recommendations, and trail insights. Whether you’re a beginner hiker or an experienced trekker, Shawn’s expertise and passion will inspire you to explore the great outdoors responsibly and confidently.
…and I’m Mike.
Mike, co-host of ‘Shawn & Mike Take A Hike,’ has been a lifelong camper who discovered the joys of backcountry camping as an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, thanks to Shawn’s encouragement. A resident of Michigan, where he lives with his wife and their two dogs, Mike brings his passion for meticulous planning to every episode. His expertise in researching hikes and podcast topics ensures that listeners receive well-prepared and insightful content. Whether it’s backcountry camping or the more luxurious “glamping” experience, Mike enjoys exploring various forms of camping. His dedication to detailed preparation and diverse camping adventures makes him a valuable resource for listeners looking to enhance their outdoor experiences with thorough planning and insightful advice.
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The #3 “Outdoor Gear” Podcast of 2025
The best Outdoor Gear podcasts from thousands of podcasts on the web and ranked by relevancy, authority, social media followers & freshness.
★★★★★
Hands down the best hiking podcast out there. Great information for amateurs looking to get started with backpacking.
Shawn V.
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Host of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike
One of the “70 Best Hiking Podcasts”
The best Hiking podcasts from thousands of podcasts on the web and ranked by relevancy, authority, social media followers & freshness.
LATEST EPISODES
Cotton Kills
Season 1 / Episode 45 In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we’re diving into a phrase you’ll hear echoed across trailheads and gear shops everywhere: “Cotton kills.” But what does that actually mean? Whether you’re a total newbie or just getting serious about hiking and backpacking, understanding how fabrics perform in…
Spring Hiking Tips
Season 1 / Episode 44 Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to get back on the trail! But before you lace up your boots and head out, there are some key things to keep in mind when hiking during this season. In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we’re breaking…
Pacing Yourself on the Trail
Season 1 / Episode 43 When you’re new to hiking, it’s tempting to push yourself to go farther and faster—but knowing how to pace yourself can make or break your experience on the trail. In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we’re breaking down the importance of setting a steady hiking pace,…