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 2026
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
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Crossing Rivers Safely: What Hikers Need to Know
Season 1 / Episode 67 River crossings can be one of the most intimidating – and dangerous – parts of hiking and backpacking, especially for beginners. In this episode of the Shawn & Mike Take A Hike podcast, Shawn and Mike break down what hikers need to know about crossing rivers and streams safely, from everyday trail
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Elevated Dehydrated Meals
Season 1 / Episode 66 After a few days on the trail, even the best dehydrated hiking meals can start to feel repetitive. On this episode of the Shawn & Mike Take A Hike podcast, Shawn and Mike dive into practical ways to elevate dehydrated backpacking meals so dinner in camp feels more like a reward and less