Planning a thru-hike or section hike of the Appalachian Trail? Don't leave home without the right apps! With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best Appalachian Trail hiking app for your needs. This guide explores the top 9 apps, highlighting features like navigation, trail information, offline maps, and campsite details. We recommend starting with FarOut, AllTrails, and Hiking Project for their comprehensive trail data, intuitive interface, and robust features.
Top app for appalachian trail
1. FarOut
Download:
Cost: Free (Free), FarOut Pro ($39.99/year)
For my Appalachian Trail thru-hike, I needed an app that was as rugged as the mountains themselves, and FarOut delivered. This app is packed with over 200 detailed hiking guides, including tons of info on the AT, and it boasts the largest collection of official trail data available, which means no more getting lost in the backcountry. Plus, FarOut is super reliable even when you're off the grid, with offline maps and GPS tracking, so you can stay safe and explore with confidence. I chose FarOut because it's the only app that truly combines comprehensive information with reliable offline functionality, making it the ultimate tool for any AT thru-hiker.
Key Features:
- Offline maps for reliable navigation
- Detailed trail information and waypoints
- Check-in feature for safety and peace of mind
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2. AllTrails
Download:
Cost: AllTrails Free (Free), AllTrails Pro ($29.99 / year)
Forget about getting lost on the Appalachian Trail! AllTrails is the ultimate app for thru-hikers, section hikers, and day-trippers alike. With over 400,000 trails mapped, you'll find detailed information on everything from elevation gain to trail conditions. I chose AllTrails because it features real user reviews, so you can get the inside scoop on the best spots and potential hazards. Plus, with its offline maps and GPS tracking, you'll never be caught off-guard, even when you're deep in the wilderness.
Key Features:
- Detailed trail maps with offline access
- Community-driven reviews and photos for each trail
- GPS tracking and navigation for staying on course
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3. Hiking Project
Download:
Forget about clunky guidebooks and confusing maps – the Hiking Project app is your ultimate companion for tackling the Appalachian Trail. This app is packed with over 74,000 miles of trail data, making it the most comprehensive resource out there. Unlike other apps that rely on spotty cell service, Hiking Project lets you download trails for offline use, so you can navigate even in the most remote parts of the wilderness. With detailed elevation profiles, GPS tracking, and stunning photos, you'll feel confident and prepared for every step of your journey.
Key Features:
- Find trails near you or in specific areas
- Download trails for offline use
- View detailed elevation profiles and maps
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4. Avenza Maps
Download:
Cost: Free (Free), Avenza Maps Pro ($9.99/year)
Looking to tackle the Appalachian Trail? Ditch the bulky guidebooks and download Avenza Maps, the ultimate app for thru-hikers. Avenza stands out from the crowd with its massive library of offline maps, including official trail maps, USGS topo maps, and even custom-made maps from fellow hikers. This means no more relying on spotty cell service to navigate, giving you peace of mind on those remote sections of the trail. Plus, Avenza's GPS tracking features let you record your progress, share your location with loved ones, and analyze your hikes afterward - all while saving battery life. So, leave the stress of getting lost behind and download Avenza Maps, the app that has over 1.5 million users and counting, and is trusted by some of the most experienced thru-hikers.
Key Features:
- Offline maps for navigation without cellular service
- Import custom maps for personalized trail exploration
- Track your location and progress with GPS
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5. Gaia GPS
Download:
Cost: Gaia GPS Free (Free), Gaia GPS Premium ($39.99/year)
For thru-hikers and section hikers tackling the Appalachian Trail, Gaia GPS is a game-changer. This mobile app provides detailed, offline maps with topographic data, trail markers, and campsites, ensuring you never lose your way, even in remote areas with limited cell service. With its robust navigation features, Gaia GPS allows you to track your progress, plan resupply stops, and even share your location with loved ones, offering peace of mind on the trail. However, the app's premium features come with a subscription fee, and battery life can be a concern for users reliant on its GPS functionality. Despite these limitations, Gaia GPS's wealth of information and user-friendly interface make it an indispensable tool for conquering the Appalachian Trail.
Key Features:
- Offline maps for off-grid navigation
- Detailed trail information and user reviews
- Track recording and route planning tools
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Other app for appalachian trail
The most important factors when choosing a app for appalachian trail
- Offline Maps: Essential for navigation when cell service is unavailable.
- Trail Information: Comprehensive data on trail conditions, distances, elevation profiles, and campsites.
- Navigation Capabilities: Accurate GPS tracking and turn-by-turn directions.
- User-Generated Content: Reviews, photos, and trip reports from other hikers.