Also called “gorp”, trail mix is traditionally a mixture of dried fruit, grains, nuts, and sometimes chocolate and was developed as a snack food to be taken along on hiking adventures. However, we all know that you do not have to be in the deep woods to enjoy a nice handful of trail mix. Easy to make, customizable, and of course delicious, there is a mix out there for every taste bud and occasion. Here are just a few ideas to get you inspired for trail-mix-making greatness!

The Classic
Peanuts; Raisins; M&Ms

The Handful of Everything
Dried pineapple; Craisins; Dried cherries; Dried apricots; Yogurt-covered peanuts; Chocolate chips; Raisins; Almonds; Cashews; Coconut

The Caffeine Fiend
Dark chocolate-covered almonds; Mocha pecans; Dark chocolate-covered espresso beans; Praline almonds; Chocolate chips; Hazelnuts

The Oriental
Rice crackers; Sesame sticks; Wasabi peas; Almonds; Cashews

The S’mores
Chocolate-covered peanuts; Mini marshmallows; Graham squares; Chocolate chunks; Pecans

Picture courtesy of Mommy's Kitchen.

The Cajun
Butter toffee peanuts; Spicy peanuts; Corn nuts; Honey sesame sticks; Almonds; Cajun sesame sticks

The Savory
Roasted peanuts; Parmesan cheese; Pretzels; Veggie crisps; Sourdough bread; Pumpkin seeds; Pistachios

The Cheesy Ranch
Quaker ranch-flavored Quakes; Goldfish crackers; Pumpkin seeds; Sunflower seeds

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Ellen Ratliff is a Senior Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions. Her ultimate trail mix combination would include dried pineapple, dark chocolate-covered almonds, mini marshmallows,  and dried cherries.