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
Hiking Safely After Natural Disasters
Season 1 / Episode 48 Storms don’t just reshape landscapes—they reshape the hiking experience. In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we’re diving into a topic that many hikers don’t think about until it’s too late: how natural disasters like ice storms, wildfires, floods, and high winds can leave trails dangerous or…
Hammock Hiking
Season 1 / Episode 47 In this special episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we welcome a listener to the show to share their unique take on backcountry camping—and why they prefer a hammock over a traditional tent. While our podcast usually highlights our own experiences as amateur hikers figuring it out as…
Let’s Talk Day Hikes
Season 1 / Episode 46 In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take a Hike, we’re taking a step back from multi-day backpacking and focusing on the simple joy of the day hike. Perfect for beginners, weekend warriors, or anyone short on time, day hiking is one of the easiest ways to get out into…