Gen-Z & Millennial Hiking Groups: The Rise of Inclusive Walking Communities

A New Generation Is Redefining Hiking in the UK

Hiking in the UK is changing — and it’s being led by Gen-Z and Millennials.

Gone are the stereotypes of hillwalking as a solitary, gear-heavy pursuit. Instead, younger walkers are embracing hiking as something social, inclusive, supportive, and good for mental wellbeing. Across TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp groups, walking communities are forming around shared values: connection, accessibility, and confidence outdoors.

This shift is opening the mountains to people who may never have felt they “belonged” there before — and it’s changing how guided adventure companies (like us) support new outdoor communities.