We take a look at the best hiking apps currently available and which ones best meet your needs be they trip planning, navigation or first aid
Hiking apps never used to feature in my outdoor adventures, but times have changed. Now, every Ordnance Survey map comes with a digital version available to download onto my smartphone or tablet.
When planning an adventure in the wild, my preparations still begin with spreading out my paper maps across the floor and marking out possible trailheads, routes and campsites.
However, now that I have more consistent access to reliable phone reception and wifi, along with a host of battery packs and solar chargers, I also make use of an array of hiking apps.
Best hiking apps
Below, I take a look at some of the best apps for hiking available for outdoor trip route planning, navigation, first aid and survival.
1. AllTrails
Platforms: iOS, Android
Price: Basic Free, Pro from $29.99 per year (lifetime option available)
Covering over 100,000 trails and with 3.5 million downloads, AllTrails is one of the most popular hike planning apps available. The free version allows you to create your own trails with GPS tracking, photos and text, and save or share them with others.
The annual membership gives you access to the premium version which allows you to save routes offline and design and print custom maps.
2. Gaia GPS
Platforms: iOS, Android
Price: Basic Free, Member $19.99, Premium $39.99
Gaia GPS is an outdoor navigation app providing access to a rich catalogue of maps including topographical, satellite, road and the NatGeo Trails Illustrated map series.
As well as tracking hikes while measuring pace, distance and elevation as standard, it is also possible to download a range of offline maps for off-grid access. The app and accompanying web-based version allow for printing too.
The interface is intuitive and users can import and synchronise data points and trails from other digital sources. The app is free, but the best of its features are accessed via the paid version.
3. Cairn
Platforms: iOS, Android
Price: Basic Free, Pro $4.99 monthly or $26.99 yearly
Cairn has been called ‘the ultimate hiking safety app’ and is an essential part of our safety kit, especially when hiking solo.
Cairn…
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