Ready to hit the trails but don’t want to break the bank on fancy hiking apps? You’re in the right place! As someone who practically lives outdoors, I’ve tested tons of hiking apps, and I’m here to share my top picks that won’t cost you a dime. These free apps can help you find trails, navigate safely, and even track your progress, making your hiking adventures more enjoyable and worry-free.
Why Use a Hiking App?
Before we dive into the specific apps, let’s quickly cover why using a hiking app is a smart move. First and foremost, safety. A good hiking app can help you stay on the trail, especially in areas with poor signage. Many apps also allow you to download maps for offline use, which is crucial when you’re hiking in areas with no cell service. Plus, they can provide valuable information about trail difficulty, elevation gain, and user reviews, helping you choose the right hike for your skill level. Finally, they’re just plain fun! Tracking your hikes, seeing your stats, and sharing your adventures with friends can add a whole new dimension to your outdoor experience.
My Top Picks for Free Hiking Apps
AllTrails
AllTrails is probably the most well-known hiking app out there, and for good reason. Its free version is packed with features. You get access to a massive database of user-submitted trails, complete with photos, reviews, and detailed descriptions. You can filter trails by difficulty, distance, elevation gain, and even dog-friendliness. One of the best things about AllTrails is the community aspect. Hikers share their experiences, post photos of trail conditions, and provide valuable tips. The free version lets you record your hikes, track your stats (distance, elevation, pace), and share your activities with friends. While AllTrails does offer a paid subscription with offline maps and other features, the free version is honestly enough for most casual hikers.
Gaia GPS (Free Version)
Gaia GPS is often considered a more “serious” hiking app, favored by experienced backpackers and off-trail adventurers. While the paid version offers advanced features like downloadable topo maps and weather forecasts, the free version is still incredibly useful. It provides access to a variety of map sources, including satellite imagery and USGS topo maps. You can record your hikes, create waypoints, and track your progress. The interface might be a bit less user-friendly than AllTrails at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll appreciate the level of detail and customization that Gaia GPS offers. If you’re planning on doing any serious backcountry hiking, Gaia GPS is a must-have, even in its free form.
Hiking Project
Hiking Project is another great option with a focus on providing detailed trail information. It’s part of the REI family, so you can expect high-quality data and a user-friendly interface. Like AllTrails, it offers a large database of trails with descriptions, photos, and reviews. One thing that sets Hiking Project apart is its emphasis on providing accurate and up-to-date trail information. The app is constantly updated by a team of editors and contributors, ensuring that the information you’re seeing is reliable. The free version allows you to download maps for offline use, which is a huge plus. You can also record your hikes and track your stats.
MapMyHike
MapMyHike, from Under Armour, is a good choice if you’re already using other Under Armour fitness apps or devices. It focuses on tracking your hikes and providing detailed performance metrics. The app uses your phone’s GPS to track your distance, pace, elevation gain, and calories burned. It also integrates with other fitness trackers, so you can get a complete picture of your activity. While MapMyHike doesn’t offer as much trail information as AllTrails or Hiking Project, it’s a solid option for tracking your fitness and progress on the trail. The free version includes all the essential tracking features, and you can upgrade to a paid subscription for advanced features like training plans and live tracking.
Avenza Maps
Avenza Maps takes a slightly different approach than the other apps on this list. It allows you to download georeferenced PDF maps to your phone and use them offline. This is particularly useful for hiking in areas where you can find high-quality digital maps from government agencies or other sources. The app itself is free, but you’ll need to find and download the maps you want to use. Many national parks and forests offer free digital maps that are compatible with Avenza Maps. This app is a great option for hikers who prefer to use traditional maps or who need to navigate in areas where no other digital maps are available.
Hiking Safety Tips
No matter which app you choose, it’s crucial to prioritize safety when hiking. Here are a few essential tips:
- Tell someone where you’re going: Always let a friend or family member know your hiking plans, including the trail you’ll be on and your estimated return time.
- Check the weather forecast: Be aware of the weather conditions before you head out, and be prepared for changes in weather.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks: Staying hydrated and fueled is essential for preventing fatigue and dehydration.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.
- Carry a first-aid kit: Be prepared to treat minor injuries.
- Learn basic navigation skills: Don’t rely solely on your phone. Know how to use a map and compass.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the trail and your surroundings, and be alert for potential hazards.
- Leave no trace: Pack out everything you pack in, and minimize your impact on the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rely solely on my phone for navigation?
While hiking apps are incredibly useful, it’s never a good idea to rely solely on your phone for navigation. Batteries can die, phones can get damaged, and cell service can be unreliable. Always carry a backup map and compass, and know how to use them.
Do these apps work offline?
Most of the apps I’ve mentioned allow you to download maps for offline use. This is a crucial feature for hiking in areas with no cell service. Make sure you download the maps you need before you head out on your hike.
Are these apps accurate?
The accuracy of hiking apps depends on several factors, including the quality of the GPS signal and the accuracy of the underlying map data. While these apps are generally quite accurate, it’s always a good idea to double-check your location with a physical map and compass, especially in challenging terrain.
Which app is best for beginners?
AllTrails is a great option for beginners. It’s easy to use, has a large database of trails, and offers plenty of user reviews and photos. The community aspect of AllTrails is also helpful for beginners, as you can learn from the experiences of other hikers.
So, there you have it – my top picks for the best free hiking apps. Remember to prioritize safety, be prepared for the unexpected, and most importantly, have fun out there on the trails! With the right app and a little planning, you can enjoy countless hiking adventures without spending a fortune.
