The best hiking GPS devices. When you’re out in the wilderness, whether it’s for scouting, hunting, or just taking a casual hike, a GPS is a great tool for identifying and navigating to your location. Whether you’re taking on a rugged backcountry trail or navigating new terrain, you’ll need a reliable device that helps guide you back home safely. Today’s best hiking GPS units do more than just help you keep from getting lost – they provide features such as mapping and route planning, as well as trip tracking, and in some cases even weather updates.
This will help you decide on the best GPS device for hiking with this guide. From learning their value and what they offer, to comparing the best products on the market, you’ll get all the information you need to make a well-informed decision.
Because cellular coverage is frequently nonexistent or spotty in remote destinations, serious explorers invest in the best GPS device for hiking. Such dedicated devices will also offer more stable satellite coverage, longer battery life, and be more durable in a harsh outdoor environment. Even if you’re a casual weekend hiker or an experienced trekker, investing in the best GPS device for hiking in your gear lineup can provide assurance and empowerment on the trail. In the following sections, we’ll walk you through the best GPS for hiking to meet your needs.
Why You Need a GPS Device for Hiking
Enhanced Safety
Hiking GPS devices are designed to make sure you never lose your way, even if there’s no phone signal. Whereas smartphones rely on cell towers to determine your location, GPS devices connect to satellites to help you track your location, even in more remote areas.
Built for Durability
Hiking GPS units are manufactured for tough terrains and weather conditions up to the freezing point. Many are waterproof and drop-proof, so they can handle hardcore outdoor escapades.
Extended Battery Life
Unlike other handhelds, hiking GPS units are designed with long battery life in mind. While a smartphone could fail in a few hours, these devices remain active for much longer, which is a necessity for multi-day excursions or long-distance hikes.
Crucial for Backcountry Hikes
For extended treks and forays into the backcountry, a GPS device is a must. They give you offline maps, allow you to track waypoints, and even warn you about upcoming weather. When you’re hiking in remote forests or mountain trails, the best GPS device for hiking delivers unrivalled reliability. And it’s with that durable design and precision tracking that the best GPS device for hiking becomes an indispensable piece of safety equipment. The most serious hikers never leave home without the best GPS device for hiking so they never get lost.
Key Features to Look for in a Hiking GPS Device
When considering a hiking GPS, focus on these essential features to match your needs:
- Satellite Coverage and Signal Accuracy
The best GPS device for hiking is built with multi-GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems), like GPS, GLONASS and Galileo. Multi-GNSS technology offers precise location tracking in heavy cover or deep canyons so you don’t have to worry about being far from marked trails. - Battery Life and Power Source
Battery life counts when you’re in the wild. Opt for devices with a long battery life (10 hours or more) and decide if you prefer rechargeable or replaceable batteries. And some of the best GPS devices for hiking even offer solar-charging capabilities for long trips. - Mapping Capabilities and Preloaded Trails
Make sure your GPS comes with preloaded topographic maps, and get additional trails to download. Which is handy if you’re trying to scope out unfamiliar trails and plan ahead. And the best GPS device for hiking will also have custom maps and track recording capabilities. - Ruggedness and Waterproof Rating
Look for a more durable rating on your devices. Waterproof IPX7 standards or better, so that your GPS can withstand a rainstorm, river crossing or an errant splash. The best GPS device for hiking is one that is rugged and performs well under tough conditions. - Size, Weight, and Ease of Use
When it comes to hiking gear, portability is everything. Pick a device that is lightweight, small, and easy to use. Choose a model with a large, outdoor-readable display for simple and quick viewing in bright light to guarantee that your best GPS device for hiking is good to go whenever you are.
Best GPS Devices for Hiking
Our top picks for hiking GPS devices include options for every type of adventurer, from casual hikers to backcountry experts. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Garmin eTrex 22x
- Pros: Budget-friendly, lightweight, preloaded with 24k topographic maps, simple to use.
- Cons: Limited connectivity options, smaller display.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 66i
- Pros: Two-way satellite messaging, highly durable with IPX7 waterproof rating, large color display with detailed maps.
- Cons: Premium price point.
3. Magellan TRX7 CS
- Pros: Large, rugged touchscreen, detailed off-road maps, built-in camera for geotagging.
- Cons: Bulkier design, higher price.
4. Suunto Traverse GPS Watch
- Pros: Lightweight and wearable, tracks elevation, integrates easily with smartphones.
- Cons: Limited battery life compared to handheld devices.
Use the comparison table below to quickly assess these devices based on key specs:
| Device | Battery Life | Weight | Mapping | Price |
| Garmin eTrex 22x | 25 hrs | 5 oz | Preloaded maps | $200 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 66i | 35 hrs | 1 oz | Detailed topo maps | $599 |
| Magellan TRX7 CS | 12 hrs | 6 oz | Off-road maps | $450 |
| Suunto Traverse Watch | 10 hrs | 3 oz | Basic mapping | $299 |
Handheld GPS vs. GPS Watches vs. Smartphone Apps
The choice between them will come down to how you hike and personal preference.
Handheld GPS Devices
- Best for: Longtime hikers and rugged terrain.
- Pros: Rugged, great battery life, and the best mapping.
- Cons: Bulky and heavy, when compared with watches.
GPS Watches
- Best for: Short hikes, trail running, and ease.
- Pros: Lightweight and wearable. Cons: Cooling only 1%, and then you use up an outfit.
- Cons: More limited features and weaker battery life.
Smartphone Apps
- Best for: Frugal hikers on short trails.
- Pros: Cheap and versatile.
- Cons: Relies on cell signal and battery life.
Tips for Using a Hiking GPS Effectively
- Preload Your Maps Never try to find a map or trail head without connectivity– always download them before you head out.
- Mark Waypoints: Place waypoints on important places such as water sources, campsites, and trailheads.
- Couple it With a Compass: Have a classic compass and a paper map on you for increased navigation precision.
FAQs
Can I use a GPS without cell service?
Yes, most GPS devices use satellites and not the same cell towers that fail to function well in the backcountry. That’s why having the best GPS device for hiking is crucial for serious explorers.
Are GPS devices waterproof?
A lot of the handheld hiking GPS units have rather good waterproof ratings, like IPX7 or better, which means they effectively protect against rain, splashes, and brief submersion. The best GPS device for hiking is designed to be waterproof and rugged.
Do I still need a compass if I have a GPS?
Yes, a compass is an essential back-up. And no matter how great the best GPS device for hiking may be — well, batteries die, equipment breaks, and other mishaps happen, so it’s always a good idea to carry a traditional compass and map for backup.
How accurate are hiking GPS devices?
The best GPS devices for hiking will use multiple satellite systems (think GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) to offer more accurate location information. They are typically able to tell where you are to within 3–5 meters, even in difficult geographic conditions.
What’s the difference between a GPS app and a handheld GPS device?
GPS apps use your phone’s internal GPS and battery, which are unreliable in the outdoors. Battery life, satellite tracking and a resistance to wear and tear is all superior in the best GPS device for hiking than in your smartphone.
Is it worth buying a GPS if I only hike occasionally?
Even if you only sometimes enjoy heading off the beaten track, owning the best GPS device for hiking or even the best handheld GPS will give you peace of mind and level of preparedness that’s difficult to achieve with a phone by itself.
When to Use a Hiking GPS
GPS devices are particularly valuable for:
- Multi-day hydration backpacking trips.
- Navigating unfamiliar or poorly marked trails.
- In cold climates where smartphone batteries drain quickly.
Invest in Your Outdoor Adventures
More than just a gadget, a trusty GPS device is a safety and exploration tool. Whether you’re exploring unknown trails, trekking the world for weeks on end, or simply for peace of mind when you’re out and about, a good device can be a game-changer. Assess how often you hike, the trails you like to trek, and what you’re willing to spend to get your perfect counterpart.
The best GPS device for hiking is packed with everything you need for your outdoor adventures: precise satellite tracking, durable design, long-lasting battery, and easy-to-use ad free mapping. When the stakes are high, rely on someone else’s navigation at your own peril. Put the best GPS device for hiking in your pack and you’re prepared to handle any trail with confidence and security.
Still not sure which model to pick? Check out our detailed reviews to see how the top hiking GPS units stack up against each other in terms of features, performance, and value.
Got a favorite hiking GPS? Let me know in the comments below! And if you’re ready to hit the ground running, don’t miss our expert tips and in-depth reviews.
