Concealed Carry While Hiking: Best Holsters and Tips

Concealed carry while hiking addresses real safety concerns in remote areas. Hikers carry handguns primarily for protection against wildlife like bears and mountain lions, though attacks remain rare, and for potential human threats in isolated trails.

Wildlife risks are low but nonzero. In North America, fatal bear attacks average fewer than one per year from black bears, with brown/grizzly bears causing about 82 fatalities since 1784. Yellowstone National Park, a high-traffic bear habitat, has recorded only eight fatal attacks in its history. The odds of a bear attack on a backcountry hiking day are roughly 1 in 232,000. Mountain lion attacks are even rarer: fewer than 30 fatal incidents across the U.S. and Canada in over a century, averaging under 0.2 per year. Human threats on trails are minimal, but carrying provides peace of mind in areas without cell service or quick emergency response.

Challenges of Hiking Carry

Hiking introduces unique obstacles for concealed carry. Sweat from exertion can cause holsters to shift or chafe, especially in hot conditions. Constant movement—climbing, scrambling, or bushwhacking—demands secure retention to prevent the firearm from falling or becoming inaccessible. Backpacks with hip belts often interfere with belt-mounted holsters, pressing into the gun or blocking the draw. Weight distribution matters: an unbalanced carry adds fatigue over miles, while layers of clothing in variable weather complicate concealment and access.

Poor holster choice leads to discomfort, printing (visible outline), or unsafe draws. Prioritizing systems that stay clear of pack straps and allow full range of motion is essential.

Recommended Carry Positions

The best holster for hiking depends on your pack setup, terrain, and firearm size. Experts and outdoor carry communities favor positions that avoid backpack interference.

Appendix or Strong-Side IWB (Inside the Waistband): These work well for lighter day hikes without heavy packs. Appendix carry positions the gun forward for a quick draw, while strong-side (3-4 o’clock) offers comfort for many body types. Use a sturdy hiking belt and sweat-resistant Kydex or hybrid holster. Drawbacks include pressure from hip belts on longer treks and potential discomfort when bending or climbing.

Chest Holsters: The top recommendation for serious backpacking. Chest rigs like the Gunfighters INC Kenai or Hill People Gear Kit Bag position the firearm high on the torso, clear of backpack straps and hip belts. They provide excellent weight distribution, quick cross-draw access, and compatibility with heavy loads. Breathable materials reduce sweat buildup, and many models accommodate larger handguns suitable for wilderness defense.

Shoulder Holsters: A strong alternative for hikers wearing light jackets or layered clothing. A shoulder holster works especially well under a light jacket or over layers, keeping the gun clear of backpack straps and allowing free arm movement. It distributes weight across both shoulders, reducing fatigue on long trails. Explore durable, custom-fit shoulder holsters ideal for trail use at Craft Holsters.

Shoulder systems excel in variable weather, as they conceal easily under outerwear without belt dependency. Choose models with adjustable harnesses and retention straps for security during strenuous activity.

Other options like ankle or pocket carry are impractical for hiking due to slow access and movement restrictions. Off-body carry in packs risks separation from the firearm.

Holster Features to Prioritize

Select holsters built for outdoor demands:

Retention — Active or passive systems (thumb breaks or friction) ensure the gun stays secure over rough terrain.
Waterproofing/resistance — Sweat, rain, or stream crossings are common; opt for Kydex, treated leather, or nylon with corrosion-resistant hardware.
Comfort padding — Neoprene backing or padded straps prevent chafing on long hikes.
Adjustability — Critical for fitting over varying clothing layers or adapting to body movement.

For bear country, larger calibers (10 mm, .44 Magnum) require robust holsters that handle recoil and weight.

Clothing and Gear Integration Tips

Integrate carry seamlessly with hiking gear. Loose or layered clothing—moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and breathable shells—aids concealment. Avoid tight athletic wear that prints easily. Position backpacks, so hip belts don’t overlap holster placement; chest or shoulder systems solve this best.

Practice draws with full gear on, including gloves in cold weather. Use hiking pants with reinforced belt loops for IWB setups. Chest carry can go well with quick-access outerwear, such as fishing vests.

Wildlife Defense: Bear Spray vs. Firearm Considerations

Many experts prioritize bear spray as the primary wildlife deterrent. Studies show bear spray stops aggressive behavior in 90-92% of incidents, compared to 76-84% for firearms. In one analysis, spray succeeded without killing bears, while firearms resulted in bear deaths in 61% of cases. Spray creates a wide deterrent cloud effective at closer ranges and works on multiple animals.

In situations where spray fails or when there are non-bear threats, firearms are used as a backup. Handguns have shown high success (up to 98% in some documented defenses) when users are proficient. Carry both if possible: spray on hip belt for first response, firearm for escalation.

Train extensively—stress reduces accuracy with either tool.

Legal Notes and Trail Etiquette

Concealed carry laws vary widely. In U.S. national parks, firearms are permitted if legal under the host state’s laws (per the 2010 Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act update). You cannot carry in federal buildings like visitor centers. National forests generally follow state rules, with no blanket federal ban.

Always verify current state reciprocity for your permit, prohibited areas (some state parks ban carry), and local trail regulations. Although it may be permitted, open carry attracts unwanted attention.

Practice good etiquette: Keep carry discreet to avoid alarming others. Follow Leave No Trace principles, and in group hikes, inform companions if relevant. Prioritize de-escalation and awareness over confrontation.

Safe, responsible carry enhances hiking freedom—choose gear wisely and train regularly.