If you’re looking for reliable travel socks for both flights and rugged hikes, the Darn Tough UltraLight Running socks made from merino wool are an excellent choice. These socks are known for their “buy for life” durability and blend of comfort and performance, making them ideal for extended trips on planes or trails. The merino wool helps regulate temperature, keeping your feet warm even if they get damp—a huge benefit when you’re tackling Montana’s remote hiking spots where conditions can shift quickly.

As a female hiker who explored Montana this past summer, I found some trails where these socks shine. The Beaten Path Trail in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness offers a multi-day adventure with both alpine and lake views, where durable socks are essential for changing terrain. For a quieter hike, the Holland Lake area near the Swan Mountains provides lush trails, waterfalls, and fewer crowds—perfect for breaking in new gear. The Darn Tough socks’ moisture-wicking abilities come in handy here, especially after creek crossings or morning dew on the trail.

Since these socks are made from merino wool, they may take a little longer to dry than synthetics, but rolling them up in a towel and pressing out moisture can speed things up. With the itch-free comfort of high-quality merino, these socks avoid the “wool itch” of traditional varieties and dry quickly enough when air-dried overnight. Perfect for adventures like Montana’s Sapphire Mountains, where fewer people go, and the rewards include quiet solitude and wildflower-dotted trails.

If you’re heading out again, layering your Darn Tough socks with a thin liner can help wick away moisture faster, especially if you’re planning to wash and re-wear on longer hikes.