Guys and gals, when you’re a few miles into the trail and your pack feels heavier than when you started, snacks are more than fuel, they’re morale boosters. Like, for reals. Therefore, after years of stuffing random *just okay* bars, mediocre jerky, and even the occasional “unhealthy treat stash” into our packs, we’ve found that an intentional, well-thought out snack can make all the difference between dragging your feet and powering through that last mile.

That’s why REI is our go-to for trail snacks. They carry everything from quick-grab bars to shareable bites, all trail-tested and adventure-approved. Below are ten of our current favorites, perfect for solo missions or splitting with your hiking partner on a summit break…but really though, they should bring their own. 👀

1. Kate’s Real Food White Chocolate Macadamia Bar

A little indulgent, a lot of fuel. Kate’s bars balance whole grains and nut butters with a sweet white chocolate twist. Perfect for when you want your trail snack to feel more like a treat without losing the staying power.

2. Honey Stinger Mini Waffles

Portable happiness. These bite-sized waffles taste like dessert but deliver quick carbs for energy. Easy to eat on the move, or share while resting at a trail overlook.

3. Country Archer Jerky Co. Jerky

Savory lovers, rejoice. Jerky is lightweight, protein-packed, and satisfies the salty craving that always hits mid-hike. Country Archer keeps the ingredients simple and the flavor bold—exactly what you want on a long trek.

4. Ranger Chocolate Dark Chocolate Cherries

Sweet, tart, and trail-ready. These chocolate-covered cherries feel like luxury in a zip-top bag. Ideal for sharing—or not.

5. Clif Builder’s Bar – Chocolate Mint

A classic for a reason. With 20g of protein, this bar doubles as a recovery snack post-hike or a substantial boost mid-way through. Chocolate mint keeps it refreshing, even in hot weather.

6. Solely Organic Dried Fruit with Chili and Salt

For hikers who crave something bold. The combo of sweet fruit with a kick of chili and a pinch of salt makes this snack both energizing and electrolyte-friendly.

7. Bobo’s Oat Bars & Stuff’d Oat Bites

Wholesome and hearty. Bobo’s oat bars are dense enough to keep you going, but their bite-sized Stuff’d options are great for quick fuel on switchbacks.

8. Peak Refuel Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites

Cookie cravings, solved. These bites are rich, peanut buttery, and satisfy that “I wish I packed dessert” moment on the trail.

9. Quantum Energy Squares

Part snack, part caffeine boost. Quantum squares combine plant-based protein with a little natural caffeine—perfect for a sunrise start or a sluggish afternoon stretch.

10. Honey Stinger Protein Nut + Seed Bar Peanut Sunflower Seed

Protein that tastes like candy. This bar combines peanuts, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of chocolate for crunch and staying power. Great for closing out a hike with something hearty.

Final Trail Thought

Snacks are so much more than food on the trail, they’re energy, motivation, and sometimes even a little celebration (actually kind of a lot), when you reach the viewpoint. So whether you’re hiking solo or sharing bites on a summit with friends and fam, these REI picks deliver both fuel and flavor. Pinky promise.

👉 Explore more REI trail snacks here and find your own new favorites for the miles ahead.