Getting lost on a 4x4 trail is no joke. You need a map, you need info on the trail's difficulty, and you need to know where the best spots to stop are. The good news is that there are some amazing apps that can do all that for you! We tested a bunch of them, and here are the best 6 apps that'll help you conquer any trail you take on.
First, you'll want to check out Gaia GPS if you want a really detailed map with tons of info. For the most comprehensive offroad experience, onX Offroad is your jam. It's got everything you need to plan and navigate your next adventure. If you're looking for a super user-friendly interface and a wide range of trails, onX Backcountry Trail Maps GPS is a great option.
| App | Logo | Available On | Reviews | Downloads | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Gaia GPS |  | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 | 3M+ | Offline-Karten, GPS-Navigation, Entfernungstracking |
| 2. onX Offroad |  | Android, iOS | 4.4/5 | 2M+ | Offline map saving, GPS navigation, Trail filtering |
| 3. onX Backcountry Trail Maps GPS |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 373K+ | Offline maps and GPS tracking, 3D map for terrain visualization |
| 4. Trails Offroad |  | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 | 48K+ | Expert trail guides, Offline maps, Advanced rating system |
| 5. Overland Bound One |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 40K+ | Offline mapping and GPS navigation, Interactive resource map with over 100,000 overland specific resources |
| 6. Trailz Off |  | Android | 1.8/5 | 6K+ | Instant trail map access, In-ride navigation, Community trail reviews |
1. Gaia GPS
Offline maps for remote areas, Detailed 4x4 trail information
Cost:
Free (Free), Gaia GPS Premium ($39.99/year)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Maps & Navigation |
| Downloads | Over 2.7 Million |
| Features | Gaia GPS offers offline maps, GPS navigation, track recording, route planning, and integration with other outdoor apps for an unparalleled 4x4 trail experience. |
| Who It’s For | Off-road enthusiasts, 4x4 drivers, overlanders, and anyone looking to explore remote areas. |
- Tags:
- Offline Maps & GPS
- Backcountry Navigation
- Hiking Trail Explorer
Gaia GPS is a popular app for 4x4 trails, offering a wealth of features for off-road enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive array of map layers, allowing users to customize their views with specific information like elevation, terrain, and points of interest. The cloud sync functionality is a major plus, enabling users to access their data on both their phones and the Gaia GPS website. However, some users have reported frustration with the app's performance, citing slow and buggy map downloads, a less than intuitive user interface, and a lack of control over map download settings. While these issues can be frustrating for off-roaders relying on the app for navigation, the potential of Gaia GPS to provide detailed maps and planning tools for 4x4 trails remains compelling.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive map layers
- Cloud sync for data
- Offline map downloads
- Useful for off-roading
- Slow and buggy downloads
- Unintuitive user interface
- Limited export functionality
Why we chose it?
As a huge fan of exploring the backcountry, I've tried tons of apps, and Gaia GPS is my absolute go-to for 4x4 trails. It’s got detailed offline maps that are essential when you're venturing off-grid, and the ability to create custom routes is a game-changer for planning epic trips. Plus, with real-time GPS tracking and elevation profiles, I can confidently navigate even the most challenging trails and know exactly what to expect.
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2. onX Offroad
Offline maps for trail navigation, Detailed trail information and reviews
Cost:
Free Trial (Free for 7 Days), onX Offroad Annual ($39.99/year)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Maps & Navigation |
| Downloads | Over 1.6 Million |
| Features | Explore and navigate over 615,000 miles of 4x4 trails, find public and private land boundaries, discover points of interest, and access offline maps for navigation without cell service. |
| Who It’s For | Off-road enthusiasts, 4x4 drivers, ATV riders, and anyone seeking adventure on trails. |
- Tags:
- Offline Maps
- 615K Trail Database
- GPS navigation
onX Offroad is a powerful app for 4x4 trails that lets you explore thousands of miles of off-road paths, from iconic destinations like Moab to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This app is a must-have for any serious off-roader, providing detailed maps, trail information, and even public land boundaries. However, users have reported some frustrations with battery drain and overheating issues, as well as occasional glitches with Android Auto integration and syncing between devices. While these concerns are being addressed with ongoing updates, the app's overall functionality and wealth of information make it a valuable tool for planning and navigating your next 4x4 adventure.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent for navigating trails
- Shows public and private land
- Detailed trail information available
- Provides accurate location data
- Drains phone battery quickly
- Android Auto experience is poor
- Sync issues between devices
Why we chose it?
onX Offroad is hands down the best app for 4x4 trails! It's packed with features that make navigating off-road a breeze, including detailed maps with millions of miles of trails, offline map downloads for when you're out of cell service, and a robust trail-finding system that lets you filter by vehicle type and difficulty. Plus, the app shows you public land boundaries and private property lines, so you can ride with confidence knowing you're staying legal.
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3. onX Backcountry Trail Maps GPS
Offline maps for remote areas, Detailed 4x4 trail information
Cost:
Free Trial (Free for 7 days), onX Backcountry Annual ($29.99/year)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Sports |
| Downloads | Over 372,550 downloads |
| Features | onX Backcountry provides offline maps, GPS tracking, and access to over 650,000 miles of trails, including hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, and ski routes, making it ideal for off-road adventures. |
| Who It’s For | onX Backcountry is perfect for anyone who enjoys outdoor adventures, particularly those seeking off-road trails like 4x4 trails, mountain biking, or exploring remote areas. |
- Tags:
- Offline Maps & GPS
- 3D Mapping & Visualization
- Extensive Trail Database
If you're looking for an app to navigate off-road trails, onX Backcountry Trail Maps GPS might seem promising at first glance. The app boasts impressive features like offline functionality, GPS tracking, and the ability to import/export GIS data. However, user feedback reveals significant shortcomings, particularly for 4x4 trail enthusiasts. The app lacks a comprehensive trail database, with users reporting missing trails and inaccuracies, making it unreliable for planning routes. Additionally, the app's search functionality proves inadequate, lacking filters for specific trail types or difficulties. While the app offers offline capabilities, the limited trail data and lack of user-friendly search tools make it less appealing for those seeking a reliable 4x4 trail companion.
Pros & Cons
- Offline functionality for tracking
- Creating lines and waypoints
- Importing and exporting GIS data
- Elevation rate coloring
- Limited 4x4 trail selection
- Inaccurate trail representation
- Expensive for all features
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of onX Backcountry for 4x4 trails! It's got detailed, offline maps that cover even the most remote areas, so you can always rely on it, even when you're off the grid. Plus, it's got amazing trail information including difficulty ratings, user reviews, and photos, so you can choose the perfect route for your ride. And, the GPS tracking feature is super accurate and reliable, so you can confidently navigate even the toughest terrain.
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4. Trails Offroad
Offline maps for navigation, Detailed trail information and ratings
Cost:
Free (Free), Premium ($14.99/year)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Maps & Navigation |
| Downloads | Over 47,000 downloads |
| Features | Trails Offroad provides detailed offline maps, trail guides, technical ratings, obstacle details, and camping spot information for 4x4, Jeep, Bronco, ATV, and Overlanding adventures. |
| Who It’s For | This app is perfect for anyone looking to explore off-road trails with their 4x4, Jeep, Bronco, ATV, or for Overlanding adventures. |
- Tags:
- Offline Maps
- Expert Trail Guides
- Advanced Rating System
"Trails Offroad" is a must-have app for 4x4 enthusiasts looking to explore new trails. While the offline functionality needs some improvement, with map loading times being a bit slow and trail information not always readily available, the app shines in its user-friendly interface and detailed trail information. The app boasts accurate trail ratings, making it easy for users to choose trails that match their skill level, and its integration with Gaia allows for easy export to Android Auto or CarPlay. Although the trail selection is currently limited, the app is continuously expanding its database, making it a valuable tool for any off-road adventurer.
Pros & Cons
- Great for 4x4 trails
- User friendly interface
- Accurate trail data
- Consistent trail ratings
- Offline data limited
- Slow to reload
- Trail selection limited
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of Trails Offroad! It's my go-to app for exploring off-road trails, and it's packed with features that make it stand out from the crowd. I love that I can download detailed maps for offline use, so I never have to worry about losing signal in the middle of nowhere. Plus, the app's comprehensive trail information, including ratings, obstacle descriptions, and even campsite recommendations, helps me choose the perfect trails for my skill level and preferences. And, best of all, it's super easy to use, making it perfect for both novice and experienced off-roaders.
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5. Overland Bound One
Offline maps and navigation, Crowdsourced trail and camping data
Cost:
Free (Free), Overland Bound Pro ($3.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Maps & Navigation |
| Downloads | Over 40,000 |
| Features | Overland Bound One offers offline mapping, GPS navigation, trail discovery, trip planning, community support, and resources for 4x4 enthusiasts. |
| Who It’s For | Off-road adventurers, 4x4 enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore remote areas. |
- Tags:
- Offline Mapping & GPS
- Overland Trails & Resources
- Community Support & Events
Overland Bound One is an app for 4x4 trails that promises seamless navigation and a vibrant community, but struggles with execution. While users praise its smooth map function and appreciate the dark mode for in-vehicle use, they also encounter significant bugs, system memory issues, and frustrating user interface glitches. The app's potential is undeniable, as users love the concept of a dedicated platform for off-road adventure, but issues with content accessibility, forum functionality, and registration requirements hinder its overall appeal.
Pros & Cons
- Great map function for trails
- Smooth and functional app
- Night mode suitable for driving
- Good concept for off-road users
- Buggy and unreliable performance
- Limited content for Canadian trails
- Forum and posting issues present
Why we chose it?
Overland Bound One is my go-to app for 4x4 trails because it gives me offline access to detailed maps and GPS navigation, even when I'm off the grid. I also love the built-in community features, which let me connect with other overland enthusiasts and share tips and advice. Plus, the easy-to-use trip planning tools help me organize my adventures and make sure I'm prepared for anything.
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6. Trailz Off
Detailed offline trail maps, Easy-to-use navigation system, Community-based trail updates
Cost:
Free (Free), Premium ($4.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Maps & Navigation |
| Downloads | Over 5,900 downloads |
| Features | Trailz Off provides offline maps, navigation, and trail information for 4x4, ATV, and UTV enthusiasts, making it easy to discover and explore off-road trails. |
| Who It’s For | Trailz Off is perfect for 4x4, ATV, and UTV enthusiasts who want to discover and explore new trails, navigate with ease, and stay informed about trail conditions. |
- Tags:
- Offline trail maps
- In-Ride Navigation
- Community trail reviews
Trailz Off is a dedicated app for 4x4 trails that promises to be your ultimate guide to off-road adventures. It boasts a comprehensive collection of trail maps, offering easy navigation and helping you discover hidden gems on your next off-road expedition. While the app features a subscription model, users have expressed a desire for a free trial or an ad-supported version to experience the benefits before committing to a paid subscription. Trailz Off is clearly designed to enhance your 4x4 experience, but the cost barrier might make it a tough sell for some trail enthusiasts.
Pros & Cons
- Specialized for 4x4 trails
- Detailed offline maps available
- Navigation features for off-roading
- Potential for high-quality trail data
- Requires $100 annual subscription
- No free trial or ad-supported option
- Limited user base and reviews
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of Trailz Off for 4x4 trails! It's packed with features that make navigating off-road a breeze. The detailed trail maps are phenomenal, showing everything from difficulty levels to points of interest, and the offline navigation works flawlessly, even when you're deep in the backcountry. Plus, the app is constantly updated with new trails and features, making it the best choice for exploring new routes and finding the perfect adventure.