19 Cute Hiking Hairstyles Ideas

Cute Hiking Hairstyles Ideas that keep your hair out of the way and looking fresh on the trail.

From low buns to braided styles, each look is built for long walks, windy paths, and quick refreshes without fuss.

These styles stay put, take minutes to do, and look great under hats or headbands.

No tangles, no frizz, just easy trail-ready looks that let you hike in style.

1. Loose Side Braid

Gather your hair over one shoulder and braid it down loosely. Secure the end with a small elastic or soft ribbon.

This simple style keeps your strands managed without pulling on the scalp. It works great for longer hair and gives a relaxed, outdoorsy feel.

The loose form lets your hair move naturally but still prevents tangling. It also helps reduce rubbing if you’re carrying a heavy backpack. Tuck the braid under your jacket if needed.

This look suits all hair textures and is quick to fix mid-hike if it shifts. A chill go-to for easy mornings on the trail.

2. Half-Up Bun

Pull the top half of your hair into a small bun at the crown and leave the rest down. Use a soft scrunchie or clip to secure it.

This combo lets your hair breathe while keeping your face free. Great for curly or thick hair that needs space to stretch.

It balances function and style without looking overdone. Also perfect for windy conditions, as it controls the top while letting the rest flow.

You can throw this together with no mirror in a minute. Plus, it works with hats, headphones, or sunglasses. A carefree, useful pick.

3. Braided Headband

Braid a small section from just above your ear and pin it over the top like a headband. This trick keeps hair out of your eyes and adds detail without extra accessories. You can do it with one side or both for more texture.

Works best on medium to long hair and doesn’t require full styling. The rest of your hair can stay loose or be tied back.

It stays put even when you’re sweating or climbing. If you like a soft, natural look with a bit of charm, this one hits the mark.

4. Twisted Low Ponytail

Tie a low ponytail, then split above the band and flip the tail through to create a twist. Quick and easy, this version upgrades a regular pony with zero tools.

It stays neat for hours and doesn’t tug. This works well if you wear hats or carry a high-neck pack.

Adds interest without complicating your routine. If your hair is shoulder-length or longer, this one’s a breeze.

Looks good with or without accessories and won’t distract you when the trail gets steep. A clean, no-fuss style that earns its keep.

5. Clipped Back Waves

Push back the front layers of your hair and secure them with two claw clips or small barrettes. The rest of your hair stays loose. This gives you a relaxed, woodsy feel while keeping your face clear.

It’s one of the fastest ways to look styled with almost no effort. Great for thick or wavy hair that doesn’t want to be tamed. Use textured clips for grip if you’re going for longer hikes.

A great fix for second-day hair that’s still holding shape. A favorite when you want to feel casual but still pulled together.

6. Mini Braids at the Front

Braid two thin sections from the front of your hair and tuck them behind your ears or secure them together. This look keeps bangs or short layers in check without changing the rest of your hair.

It’s a subtle way to add interest and works for short to long hair. Great option when you want your hair down but still need control.

These mini braids are low effort, won’t come loose easily, and take less than two minutes. You can even do it while walking. Light, lovely, and practical.

7. Puff Ponytail with Headband

Pull your hair into a mid-height ponytail and tease or fluff it slightly for volume. Add a soft cloth headband to keep sweat at bay. This style brings both function and flair. It keeps you cool and makes you feel pulled together.

Good for those with natural curls or thick hair needing control. The headband catches moisture and holds hair back without tight pulling.

The puff gives you a boost of style even on longer trails. It’s easy to refresh with just a comb or your fingers. A balanced blend of sporty and cute.

8. Scarf-Tied Ponytail

Tie your ponytail with a small scarf or wrap it around the base. This adds a pop of color and gives you a secure tie that won’t pull.

Works well for long hikes or short strolls and can double as a head cover if needed.

Keeps your style fresh and keeps hair from tangling in the wind. You can wear it high, mid, or low depending on comfort.

Adds flair without needing any extra styling tools. You’ll look trail-ready with zero stress and all charm.

9. Chunky Side Twist

Twist a large section of hair from one side and secure it behind your ear with a clip or bobby pin. Let the rest fall loose or tie it back low.

This twist keeps hair from sticking to your face without requiring a full updo. Best for layered or thick hair, and it holds surprisingly well even on long trails.

Easy to retwist if needed. Works without a mirror and can be worn under a hood or hat. Adds just the right amount of polish to your hiking look.

10. Side Braid with Hat

Pull all your hair to one side and make a simple three-strand braid. Pair it with a soft, breathable hat. This combo keeps hair off your neck while shielding your scalp from the sun.

The side braid sits comfortably under headwear and won’t bunch like a ponytail. Even if it loosens a bit, the look stays cute. You won’t need to restyle throughout the day.

This works for layered, long, or thick hair and is easy to redo on the trail. Add a soft scrunchie or ribbon at the end if you want a touch of fun.

11. Space Buns

Split your hair down the middle, then twist and secure two buns on each side of your head. These mini buns feel light and stay put, even through windy paths and sweat. You can go tight or loose, depending on the vibe you want.

This style suits medium-length hair and gives your scalp breathing room. It’s fun, bold, and doesn’t need much to maintain.

Great for hot days or high-energy hikes when you want everything off your face and neck. Plus, space buns hold their shape even with backpacks and movement.

12. High Puff for Natural Hair

Gather your curls into a puff at the top of your head using a stretchy band or silk scrunchie. This lifts hair away from your face while letting your natural texture shine.

It’s a great choice for natural hair on humid hikes. Keeps your curls safe and prevents matting. Add a headband or scarf to protect your edges.

The puff stays light and secure, even on longer hikes. Minimal touch-up needed. You’ll stay cool while keeping volume and personality. Simple, stylish, and protective all at once.

13. Boxer Braids into Bun

Create two tight braids from the front to the nape, then twist both into a single bun. This look keeps everything locked in and feels light during tough climbs.

It prevents sweat buildup and keeps your hair clean longer. Perfect for multi-day hikes or camping.

Works well for thick, long, or natural textures. The added bun keeps ends from rubbing on clothing or gear.

This combo handles hats, helmets, or rain gear with ease. One of the most secure styles you can wear while exploring new trails.

14. Low Side Ponytail with Twist

Part your hair to one side and gather it into a low ponytail near your shoulder. Twist the base for some detail and pin it or use a band. It feels light and casual but still holds its shape.

Great for long hikes where you want comfort and ease. Works on wet, straight, or curled hair. You can wear this one with or without a hat.

It also lets you easily toss on a jacket without hair bunching behind your neck. A sweet, practical look that won’t slow you down.

15. Tucked-In Bandana Roll

Lay a bandana flat, roll it into a tube, and wrap it over your head like a crown.

Then roll your hair inward and tuck it into the back fold. This creates a cute rolled look that holds hair off your neck.

It’s great for second-day hair and won’t need redoing. The bandana protects your hair from sun and sweat while keeping it out of your face.

Looks stylish and adds a retro vibe. Best for shoulder-length or longer styles. Just a few pins can hold it all together through the trail.

16. Faux Hawk Braid

Start by French braiding a small center strip from the forehead back. Leave the sides loose or pin them with clips. This gives a bit of edge while keeping things functional. It looks cool without being heavy.

Great for short to mid-length hair that won’t fit in a full braid. You’ll stay cool, and the braid helps handle sweat or wind.

Add a scarf or bandana if you want to turn it into a full trail-ready look. Strong, simple, and great for photos.

17. Rolled Headband Tuck

Put on a stretchy fabric headband and tuck your hair into it from the back, rolling sections up and under. This gives you a tidy, rolled-up look without needing pins.

It’s great for hot trails and protects the nape of your neck from sunburn. Feels light and stays comfortable all day. Best for medium to long hair and takes less than two minutes.

Bonus: the headband catches sweat and adds color to your outfit. Looks elegant but functions like a charm.

18. French Rope Braid

Twist two sections of hair as you move from your forehead toward the back, picking up strands like a French braid. Secure it at the end or combine it with a ponytail.

It holds firm but looks soft. Good for hikes where you want your style to last hours without fuss. Works well on straight or textured hair.

You’ll spend less time adjusting and more time enjoying the trail. A strong choice when you want something different from the usual braid.

19. Layered Claw Clip Updo

Twist your hair up and clip it with a large claw clip, letting a few strands fall for a relaxed touch. This works best for thick or medium-length hair and gives your scalp room to breathe.

The clip keeps it up without tension. Great for quick stops or midday adjustments. If your clip is strong enough, it’ll hold for hours.

You don’t need to braid, twist tightly, or overthink the process. This is the fast, go-anywhere style that feels just right for spontaneous adventures.