Best Hiking Apps for Every Hiker (Beginner to Expert)
When I first got into hiking I definitely googled “best hiking apps”; so here is the article I wish had existed back then. Whether you’re planning your first hike or preparing for a multi-day backpacking trip, the right outdoor apps make navigation easier, boost your confidence, and help keep you safe. Today, there are powerful tools for offline maps, route planning, trail conditions, weather alerts, emergency communication, and more — all accessible from your phone or smartwatch.
In this guide, you’ll learn the best apps for hiking, navigation, and outdoor safety — how they work, why you need them, and how to choose the right ones for your adventure.
Why You Need Hiking & Navigation Apps
Digital tools have transformed the way we hike, making it easier to:
- Navigate confidently on unfamiliar terrain
- Access offline maps when you’re out of cell coverage
- Track and share your route with friends or family
- Get real-time weather forecasts before and during your hike
- Locate safety features like emergency contacts or GPS coordinates
Even the best hiking apps don’t replace outdoor skills — but they enhance your awareness and reduce risk when used properly.
Best Hiking Navigation Apps (With Offline Maps)
1. AllTrails
Best for: Trail discovery, beginner–advanced hikers
AllTrails is one of the most popular trail apps worldwide. It lets you:
- Search trails by difficulty, length, and rating
- Download offline maps
- See photos and reviews from other hikers
- Record your hike and share with friends
Best for: Hikers who want curated trails and offline navigation.
Try if: You’re looking for easy route browsing + reliable offline maps.
2. Gaia GPS – My “Best Hiking Apps” Winner
Best for: Serious hikers, backpackers, mountain navigation
Gaia GPS shines with:
- Topographic maps and aerial views
- Custom route plotting
- Offline map downloads
- Integration with GPS devices
Best for: Wilderness navigation, backcountry trips, and detailed planning.
Try if: You want advanced mapping features and precision. Definitely one of the best hiking apps in my opinion (and from experience).
3. Komoot
Best for: Customized route planning
Komoot focuses on:
- Personalized route creation
- Easy offline downloads
- Turn-by-turn navigation
Best for: Hikers who like planning their own unique paths or combining hiking with cycling.
Best Hiking Apps for Outdoor Safety and Emergency Preparedness
5. What3Words
Best for: Precise location sharing
What3Words divides the world into 3-meter squares and gives each one a unique three-word address. That means if you ever need to share your exact location — especially in emergency situations — you can give someone an exact spot quickly and accurately.
Best for: Backcountry communication and emergencies.
6. Cairn
Best for: Safety route tracking and coverage info
Cairn lets you:
- Share your planned route with trusted contacts
- Track progress (even offline)
- Get coverage maps showing where you’ll lose cell signal
Best for: Solo hikers and remote hikes.
7. First Aid by American Red Cross
Best for: On-trail first aid guidance
This app offers:
- Step-by-step instructions for injuries and emergencies
- Offline access to content
- Simple navigation for quick answers
Best for: Hikers who want practical medical information in their pocket.
Best Hiking Apps for Weather & Conditions
8. Windy
Best for: Detailed weather forecasting
Windy gives real-time weather, wind, precipitation, and alerts — especially useful for exposed mountain terrain.
9. NOAA Weather Radar
Best for: US hikers
NOAA’s app provides reliable forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts that help you hike safer when conditions change.
Bonus: Best Hiking Apps for Fitness & Tracking
10. Strava
Best for: Tracking performance
While Strava is known for running and cycling, many hikers use it to:
- Track elevation gain
- Log routes
- Measure pace over time
Best for: Hikers who love metrics and progress tracking.
How to Choose the Right Hiking App
Here’s a quick way to decide:
| Priority | Best App(s) |
|---|---|
| Trail discovery & reviews | AllTrails |
| Precision navigation | Gaia GPS / ViewRanger |
| Customized routes | Komoot |
| Safety & location sharing | What3Words / Cairn |
| First aid guidance | Red Cross First Aid |
| Weather monitoring | Windy / NOAA |
| Fitness tracking | Strava |
Tip: Install at least one offline map app before you hike. Cell service is unpredictable on the trail — but offline GPS doesn’t need it.
Tips for Using Hiking Apps Safely
- Download offline maps before you leave cell coverage
- Set location sharing with someone you trust
- Check conditions before you go (trail and weather)
- Don’t rely on a single app — use at least two for safety
- Save emergency contacts locally on your phone
Apps amplify your preparedness — but they don’t replace good judgment or basic outdoor skills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Hiking Apps
Do hiking apps work offline?
Yes — most major navigation apps let you download offline maps so you can navigate even without signal.
Which app is best for beginners?
AllTrails is often easiest for first-time hikers, with simple trail discovery and offline navigation.
Should I use multiple apps on a hike?
Yes — combining navigation, safety, and weather apps gives you more complete information on the trail.
Final Thoughts: Make Technology Your Trail Partner
The right apps can:
- Make navigation easier
- Boost confidence
- Help you plan smarter
- Increase your safety outdoors
Whether you’re a beginner hiker or an experienced adventurer, having reliable digital tools in your pocket gives you clarity, connection, and peace of mind out on the trail. Do you have any recs that you think should have made the list for best hiking apps?
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