The 12 Best Hiking Apps for Adventure Lovers

This extensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about hiking apps, what they do, and how to choose the best one for your requirements.

What are Hiking Apps?

Hiking apps are mobile applications designed to help hikers plan and navigate their hikes. These apps often provide information on trails, including distance, elevation, difficulty level, and user reviews. They may also include features such as GPS tracking, maps, and real-time weather updates.

Some hiking apps also offer social networking features, allowing users to connect with other hikers and share their experiences.

There are many different hiking apps available, ranging from free basic versions to more advanced paid options. Many offer both offline and online map access for when hikers are in areas with limited or no cell service.

Overall, hiking apps can be a valuable tool for hikers of all levels, providing useful information and resources to help them plan and enjoy their outdoor adventures.

Why are Hiking Apps Useful?

Hiking apps are useful for a number of reasons, including:

Planning and Preparation

Hiking apps allow users to easily plan and prepare for their hikes by providing detailed trail maps, route information, and other important details such as weather conditions, difficulty level, and trailhead directions.

This can help hikers make informed decisions about where to hike, what to bring, and what to expect on the trail.

Navigation

Many hiking apps offer GPS tracking and real-time mapping features that help hikers stay on the right path and avoid getting lost. This can be especially useful in areas with complex trail systems or in locations with limited signage or cell service.

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Safety

Hiking apps can also be valuable tools for safety, providing features such as emergency contacts, first aid information, and weather alerts that help hikers stay safe and prepared on the trail.

Community

Hiking apps often have social features that allow users to connect with other hikers and share their experiences and tips. This can be a great way to discover new trails, learn from others’ experiences, and find hiking partners.

Overall, hiking apps can be incredibly useful tools for both novice and experienced hikers, providing valuable information and features that make hiking safer, more enjoyable, and more accessible.

The Best Hiking Apps

The best hiking app for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to try out a few different apps to see which one works best for you.

1. Hiking Apps – AllTrails

AllTrails is a popular hiking app that provides users with a comprehensive database of over 100,000 trail maps and reviews, making it easy to discover and plan hikes in locations all around the world.

The AllTrails app provides a range of information on each trail, including distance, elevation gain, difficulty level, and user reviews, as well as trailhead directions, photos, and more. Users can also record and share their own hikes, and leave reviews and photos to help other hikers plan their trips.

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AllTrails offers both free and paid versions of the app, with the paid version offering additional features such as offline maps and trail maps that show contour lines and detailed topographical information.

In addition to hiking, AllTrails also provides information on other outdoor activities such as mountain biking, trail running, and snowshoeing, making it a great resource for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.

2. Hiking Apps – Gaia GPS

Gaia GPS is a top quality hiking app that offers detailed topographical maps, trail routes, and other features designed to help hikers navigate the outdoors.

The app provides access to a wide range of maps, including topographical maps, satellite imagery, and road maps. It also offers features such as GPS tracking, custom waypoints, and real-time weather updates, making it easier for hikers to plan and navigate their routes.

With the Gaia GPS app, users can record and save their own hikes, as well as browse and download pre-made routes created by other hikers.

The app offers a variety of filters to help users find the perfect trail for their needs, and also includes offline mode, so that hikers can access maps and trail information even when they are in areas with limited or no cell service.

Gaia GPS offers both free and paid versions of the app, with the paid version offering additional features such as National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps and access to additional layers such as public and private land boundaries, making it a valuable tool for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Hiking Apps – PeakFinder

PeakFinder is an app designed for hikers, mountaineers, and outdoor enthusiasts that helps identify mountains and peaks in real-time.

Using augmented reality technology, the PeakFinder app displays the names and elevations of nearby mountains and peaks using your smartphone’s camera and GPS. The app works offline, making it a great tool for hikers in remote areas or locations with limited cell service.

The PeakFinder app covers locations all around the world, and provides a range of features, including the ability to search for peaks by name, save and share your favourite locations, and view detailed peak information and statistics. The app also includes a night mode for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts, making it a versatile tool for outdoor exploration and adventure.

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PeakFinder is available for both iOS and Android devices, and has received high praise for its accuracy and ease of use.

4. Hiking Apps – Komoot

Komoot is a popular hiking and cycling app that provides users with a comprehensive database of outdoor routes and maps. The app offers users access to thousands of trails and routes in over 100 countries, making it a valuable resource for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Komoot allows users to plan and navigate their routes using detailed maps and route planning tools. The app provides information on distance, elevation, and difficulty level for each route, as well as detailed topographical maps and trail recommendations from other users.

In addition to hiking and cycling routes, Komoot also provides information on outdoor activities such as mountain biking, running, and even road cycling. The app allows users to save and share their favourite routes, as well as track their progress and statistics over time.

Komoot is available for both iOS and Android devices, and offers both free and paid versions of the app. The paid version includes additional features such as offline maps and advanced route planning tools, making it a great choice for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

5. Hiking Apps – Hiking Project

The Hiking Project app is a popular app designed for hikers that provides users with detailed trail maps and information on hiking routes all around the world.

The app is a product of REI Co-op, a well-known outdoor gear and clothing retailer in the United States.

The Hiking Project app offers users access to a comprehensive database of hiking trails, with detailed information on each trail, including distance, elevation gain, difficulty level, and user reviews. The app also provides information on trailhead directions, photos, and other useful details for planning a hike.

Users can browse and search for trails by location or difficulty level, and the app includes filters to help users find the perfect trail for their needs. The app also allows users to record and share their own hikes, and provides tools for tracking progress and statistics over time.

The Hiking Project app is free to use and is available for both iOS and Android devices. As a product of REI Co-op, the app is also integrated with the retailer’s gear and clothing inventory, allowing users to easily browse and purchase products for their next hiking adventure.

6. Hiking Apps – PeakVisor

PeakVisor is a popular hiking app that provides users with 3D augmented reality maps and information on mountains and peaks around the world. The app uses the camera and sensors on a user’s phone or tablet to create a live 3D view of the surrounding mountains, allowing hikers to identify peaks and landmarks in real time.

The app offers detailed information on over 1 million peaks worldwide, including elevation, distance, and mountain range. Users can also search for peaks by name or location, and save their favorite peaks for future reference.

In addition to its 3D mapping features, PeakVisor also provides users with route planning tools, GPS tracking, and offline capabilities for use in remote areas. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and is free to download with additional features available for purchase.

7. Hiking Apps – Far Out (Formerly Guthook Guides)

Guthook Guides was a popular hiking app that provides users with detailed trail maps and information for long-distance hiking trails around the world, including the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and many others. It has since rebrnaded as Far Out.

The app was initially named after its creator, Ryan “Guthook” Linn, who hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2012 and created the app to help other hikers navigate the trail.

Far Out provides users with detailed topographic maps, including elevation profiles, water sources, camping areas, and other points of interest along the trail. The app also offers GPS tracking, offline capabilities, and real-time updates on trail conditions and weather.

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In addition to its trail mapping features, Far Out also provides users with a social platform to connect with other hikers, share tips and advice, and stay up to date on trail news and events.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and requires a one-time purchase for each trail guide.

8. Hiking Apps – Outdooractive (Formerly ViewRanger)

Outdooractive is a popular hiking app that provides users with detailed topographic maps and information for hiking trails around the world. The app offers a wide range of maps, including detailed topographic maps, aerial imagery, and street maps, as well as route planning tools and GPS tracking.

One of the unique features of Outdooractive is its “Skyline” augmented reality feature, which uses a phone or tablet’s camera and sensors to identify peaks and landmarks in real time. This feature allows hikers to identify mountains and other features in the surrounding landscape, making it a valuable tool for navigation and sightseeing.

Outdooractive also offers offline capabilities, allowing hikers to download maps and routes for use in remote areas without a data connection. In addition, the app provides users with a social platform to connect with other hikers, share tips and advice, and discover new trails and destinations.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and is free to download with additional features available for purchase.

9. Hiking Apps – Maps 3D

Maps 3D is a popular hiking app that provides users with 3D topographic maps for hiking and outdoor activities. The app uses high-resolution satellite imagery and topographic data to create detailed, interactive 3D maps that allow users to view terrain and elevation changes in real time.

Maps 3D offers a range of features, including GPS tracking, route planning tools, and offline capabilities, which allow users to download maps and routes for use in remote areas without a data connection. The app also provides users with detailed information on hiking trails and other outdoor activities, including trail descriptions, difficulty ratings, and user reviews.

In addition to its hiking features, Maps 3D also offers mapping and tracking tools for other outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and cycling. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and is free to download with additional features available for purchase.

10. National Park Service App

The National Park Service app is an official app created by the US National Park Service (NPS) that provides users with information on all of the national parks in the United States, as well as other NPS-managed sites such as historic landmarks, scenic trails, and wildlife refuges. The app is designed to help visitors plan their trips to national parks and other NPS sites, and to enhance their experience while on site.

The app offers a range of features, including interactive maps, trail descriptions, park history and cultural information, and up-to-date news and events. Users can also use the app to plan itineraries and reserve campsites and other facilities within the parks.

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In addition to its park-specific features, the National Park Service app also offers educational resources and tools, such as lesson plans and curriculum materials for teachers and students, and information on volunteer and employment opportunities within the NPS.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and is free to download.

11. Seek by iNaturalist

Seek by iNaturalist is a mobile app that helps users identify plants and animals in the wild using image recognition technology. The app is designed to encourage people to explore and learn about the natural world around them, and to contribute to citizen science efforts by sharing observations with the iNaturalist community.

To use Seek, users simply take a photo of a plant or animal they encounter while hiking or exploring outdoors. The app then uses machine learning algorithms to identify the species and provide users with information on the species’ habitat, diet, and other characteristics.

Seek also includes a feature that allows users to earn badges and compete with friends and family members to see who can identify the most species over time. In addition, the app allows users to contribute to scientific research by submitting their observations to iNaturalist, a citizen science platform that aggregates data on plant and animal sightings around the world.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and is free to download.

12. Hiking Apps – SkyView Lite

SkyView Lite is a popular mobile app that uses augmented reality technology to help users identify and learn about stars, planets, and constellations in the night sky. The app uses the camera and sensors on a mobile device to overlay information about celestial objects onto a live video feed of the sky.

To use SkyView Lite, users simply point their device at the sky and the app will overlay information about stars, constellations, and planets in real time. Users can tap on an object to learn more about it, including its name, distance from Earth, and other interesting facts.

SkyView Lite also includes a time-lapse feature that allows users to see how the sky changes over time, as well as a search function that makes it easy to find specific celestial objects. The app is a great tool for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts, as well as for families and educators who want to learn more about the night sky.

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SkyView Lite is available for both iOS and Android devices, and is free to download.

Do Hiking Apps Work Offline?

Many hiking apps offer offline capabilities, which can be incredibly useful for hikers who are exploring remote areas or locations with limited cell service.

When an app offers offline capabilities, it means that users can download and access trail maps, route information, and other features without an internet connection. This can help hikers stay on track and avoid getting lost even in areas with no cell service.

However, not all hiking apps offer offline capabilities, so it’s important to check the app’s features and specifications before relying on it for offline use. Some apps may require users to download maps or other information in advance, while others may have limited offline capabilities or require a paid subscription to access offline features.

It’s also worth noting that some features of hiking apps, such as real-time weather updates or social sharing, may require an internet connection to function properly. In general, hikers should always be prepared with a paper map and compass as backup, especially when exploring unfamiliar terrain or in areas with limited cell service.

What are the Best Hiking Apps in Europe?

There are many great hiking apps available in Europe, but some of the best include:

Komoot: Komoot is a popular hiking and cycling app that provides users with access to thousands of trails and routes in over 100 countries, including many popular hiking destinations throughout Europe.

AllTrails: AllTrails is another popular hiking app that offers a wide range of trails throughout Europe, with detailed information on each trail, including difficulty level, distance, and elevation gain.

ViewRanger: ViewRanger is a hiking app that offers detailed topographic maps for hikers, along with route planning tools, GPS tracking, and offline capabilities for use in remote areas.

Hiking Project: The Hiking Project app, which is a product of REI Co-op, offers detailed information on hiking trails throughout Europe, including trailhead directions, user reviews, and difficulty ratings.

GPS Navigation & Maps Sygic: This app provides detailed maps and navigation features for hikers in Europe, with real-time traffic updates, offline capabilities, and information on points of interest along hiking routes.

Overall, the best hiking app for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, as well as the specific region or trail you plan to explore. It’s a good idea to research and compare different apps before choosing the one that’s right for you.

What are the Best Free Hiking Apps?

There are many free hiking apps available, and some of the best include:

AllTrails: AllTrails is a popular hiking app that offers a large database of hiking trails, with detailed information on each trail, including difficulty level, distance, and elevation gain. The app is free to use, but offers additional features for a paid subscription.

Hiking Project: The Hiking Project app, which is a product of REI Co-op, offers detailed information on hiking trails throughout the world, with trailhead directions, user reviews, and difficulty ratings. The app is free to use.

ViewRanger: ViewRanger is a hiking app that offers detailed topographic maps for hikers, along with route planning tools, GPS tracking, and offline capabilities for use in remote areas. The app is free to use, but offers additional features for a paid subscription.

Maps 3D: Maps 3D is a hiking app that provides 3D terrain maps for hikers, with GPS tracking and offline capabilities. The app is free to use, but offers additional features for a paid subscription.

Trailforks: Trailforks is a popular app for mountain bikers and hikers that provides detailed information on trails throughout the world, with maps, elevation profiles, and user reviews. The app is free to use.

The best free hiking app for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, as well as the specific region or trail you plan to explore.

It’s a good idea to research and compare different apps before choosing the one that’s right for you.

What are the Best Hiking Apps that Work Offline?

There are several hiking apps that offer offline capabilities, allowing users to access maps, trails, and other features even when they don’t have an internet connection. Some of the best hiking apps that work offline include:

1. AllTrails: This popular hiking app allows users to download maps and trails for use offline, as well as access trail descriptions, photos, and reviews. The app also offers GPS tracking and other features for navigation and safety.
2. Gaia GPS: Gaia GPS is a comprehensive hiking app that offers detailed topographic maps, GPS tracking, and route planning tools. Users can download maps for offline use, as well as access a range of features such as weather forecasts and public land boundaries.
3. Maps 3D: Maps 3D is a popular hiking app that offers 3D topographic maps for offline use, as well as GPS tracking and route planning tools. The app also includes information on hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
4. ViewRanger: ViewRanger is a popular hiking and outdoor navigation app that offers offline capabilities, including downloadable maps and routes, GPS tracking, and live trail information. The app also includes features such as augmented reality and the ability to share routes with others.
5. Komoot: Komoot is a comprehensive outdoor navigation app that offers offline maps, route planning tools, and GPS tracking. The app also includes detailed information on hiking trails, including difficulty ratings and user reviews.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a Hiking App?

When choosing a hiking app, there are several factors to consider to ensure that the app meets your needs and preferences. Here are some things to consider:

Maps and Navigation

Consider the quality and detail of the maps and navigation features offered by the app. Look for an app that offers detailed topographic maps and GPS tracking to help you navigate and stay on track while hiking.

Trail Information

Look for an app that offers detailed information on hiking trails, including trail difficulty, distance, elevation gain, and other relevant information. User reviews and photos can also be helpful in deciding whether a particular trail is right for you.

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Offline Capabilities

If you plan to hike in areas without cellular or internet coverage, look for an app that offers offline capabilities, such as downloadable maps and trail information.

Community and Social Features

Some hiking apps offer social features, such as the ability to share and discover new trails with other users. Consider whether these features are important to you.

Price

Some hiking apps are free, while others require a subscription or a one-time purchase. Consider your budget and whether the features offered by a particular app are worth the cost.

Compatibility

Make sure the app is compatible with your device’s operating system, and that it has a user-friendly interface that is easy for you to navigate and use.

Reviews and Ratings

Check out user reviews and ratings to get a sense of how well the app works and whether it is reliable and accurate.

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