Planning your next outdoor adventure? There's an app for that! Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a weekend warrior, these 13 best hiking apps will help you find the perfect trail, navigate with ease, and stay safe on your journey. From trail maps and navigation to detailed reviews and safety features, these AllTrails, komoot, and Gaia GPS apps have everything you need to make your next hike a success. With so many great options available, you're sure to find the perfect hiking app for your needs.
Top app hiking
1. AllTrails
Download:
Cost: Basic Membership (Free), Pro Membership ($2.99 per month)
AllTrails is my go-to app for finding the perfect hiking adventure. It's loaded with over 400,000 trails worldwide, from beginner-friendly strolls to challenging climbs, and features detailed maps, user reviews, and real-time trail conditions. What sets AllTrails apart is its massive community – millions of hikers contribute photos, tips, and insights, making it a super-reliable source of information. It's like having a personal hiking buddy in your pocket, guiding you to the best trails and helping you stay safe on your journey.
Key Features:
- Discover and explore trails worldwide
- Detailed trail information and reviews
- Offline maps for navigation without service
✨ Read more: app for bike riding
2. komoot
Download:
Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), World Pack ($29.99)
Komoot is a popular app hiking tool with a strong focus on route planning and navigation. While users praise its detailed trail mapping and offline functionality, which is surprisingly battery-friendly, the app's shortcomings include a clunky user interface, inaccurate real-time navigation, and an overly-enthusiastic robot voice that constantly nags even when off-route. The "Discover" feature also disappoints with its lackluster trail recommendations, and the region-based pricing model can be a major deterrent.
Key Features:
- Discover & plan routes from a global community
- Detailed offline maps for navigation without internet
- Track your progress and share your adventures
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3. Gaia GPS
Download:
Cost: Free ($0.00), Premium ($3.33 per month (billed annually at $39.96))
Gaia GPS is an app hiking powerhouse, boasting a wealth of features like customizable layers and cloud syncing that make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. While the app's ability to download maps and its extensive data access are truly helpful, it has been plagued by usability issues that have left many users frustrated. Slow and buggy downloads, an unintuitive interface, and a lack of control over data syncing across devices are just some of the complaints. Despite its potential, the app's recent changes, particularly the inability to create area maps on laptops, have pushed many users, like myself, to the brink of switching to competitor products.
Key Features:
- Offline maps for backcountry navigation
- GPS tracking for route recording and planning
- Extensive trail database with user reviews
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4. HiiKER
Download:
Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), HiiKER PRO ($29.99 per year)
HiiKER is an excellent app hiking choice for those who prioritize offline map access, detailed route planning, and stunning visuals. Its ability to download maps for offline use, complete with waypoints and alternative routes, is a lifesaver for navigating trails, especially when cell service is spotty. While some users have reported occasional app crashes, the developers have proven responsive in addressing these issues. However, be aware that the app's map detail may not be as comprehensive as some competitors, potentially leading to navigational challenges in unfamiliar areas. Despite these minor drawbacks, HiiKER's intuitive interface, user-friendly features like the measurement tool and "drop pin" functionality, make it a solid contender for any avid hiker.
Key Features:
- Download thousands of offline trail maps
- Plan your hike with route planner
- Track your progress with GPS navigation
✨ Read more: app for tracking mileage
5. Avenza Maps
Download:
Cost: Free ($0), Plus ($34.99/year)
Avenza Maps is a must-have app for any hiker looking to navigate trails with confidence and ease. With its extensive library of offline maps, including those from National Geographic and the National Park Service, you can explore even the most remote areas without worrying about cellular service. Its GPS tracking feature lets you record your hikes, share them with others, and even create custom maps for your favorite trails. While some users have noted that the app can be a bit pricey with its premium features, the benefits of offline navigation, accurate location tracking, and comprehensive map options outweigh the cost for most avid hikers. With over 5 million downloads and a 4.5-star rating on the App Store, Avenza Maps has proven itself to be a reliable and powerful tool for any outdoor enthusiast.
Key Features:
- Download maps for offline use
- Track your location with GPS
- View topographic and trail maps
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Other app hiking
The most important factors when choosing a app hiking
- Trail Coverage and Accuracy: The most important factor is the app's ability to provide detailed, accurate information about trails in your desired location.
- Navigation Features: Look for apps that offer offline maps, GPS tracking, and turn-by-turn navigation to ensure you stay on track, even in areas with limited cellular service.
- Safety Features: Essential safety features include emergency contact options, SOS signals, and the ability to share your location with others.
- User Interface and Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface with intuitive navigation and clear information is crucial for a positive hiking experience.