| What it is | Fast, efficient uphill walking |
| Technique | Hands on thighs or poles; strong stride |
| Why | Nearly as fast as running, less energy |
| Skill | Knowing when to hike vs run |
Power hiking is fast, deliberate, efficient uphill walking — often with hands pressing on the thighs or using poles — that trail and ultra runners use on steep climbs where it’s nearly as fast as running but far less costly in energy. Knowing when to power hike instead of run is a core trail-running skill that conserves energy for the whole effort.
Hike the steeps
The smart way to tackle vert in ultrarunning, trained by hill repeats and aided by trekking poles.
Frequently asked questions
What is power hiking?
Power hiking is walking uphill quickly and efficiently, with purpose and good technique — often pressing your hands on your thighs or using trekking poles to drive each step. Trail and ultra runners power hike steep climbs because, on steep enough grades, it's almost as fast as running but uses far less energy.
When should you power hike instead of run?
On steep climbs where running would spike your heart rate and burn energy with little speed gain. A common guideline is that beyond a certain steepness, power hiking is nearly as fast as running at a much lower cost — so strong trail runners hike the steep pitches and save running for runnable terrain, especially in long races.
How do you power hike efficiently?
Take strong, purposeful steps, lean slightly forward from the ankles, and drive with your legs while pressing your hands on your thighs (or planting poles) to engage your upper body and take load off your legs. Keep a steady rhythm and breathing, and use the technique to maintain momentum on long climbs without redlining.
Sources
- Power hiking technique — American Trail Running Association
- Climbing efficiency — The Mountaineers