With the advancement of technology, more and more people are looking to acquire a hiking watch that has features that can help them either navigate their way through the trail, or monitor their fitness health.
Hiking watches are mainly equipped with ABC (altimeter, barometer, and compass). High-end watches would mean more features, like an on-road and off-road navigation system, a satellite messenger that would allow you to send SOS messages, and more. A hiking watch can help you on many different occasions.
There are many hiking watches on the market. We’ll talk about the five best hiking watches. You’ll find the best overall hiking watch, the best hiking watches with GPS, and the best hiking watches under $200.
Best overall hiking watch
1. Suunto 9 Baro
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 81g
Measurements: 1.97” x 1.97” x 0.66”
Battery Type: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Reported Battery Life: In Time Mode – 14 days; 24/7 tracking and mobile notifications – 7 days; and Training mode with GPS – 25h/50h/120h
Barometer Altimeter: Yes
Temperature Sensor: Yes
HR Monitor: Yes
Button Lock: Yes
If you’re looking for a high-end watch that can accommodate your week-long backpacking adventures, then you should definitely consider the Suunto 9 Baro. This is specifically made to handle ultra-endurance activities, and can last for days on end.
What we like
The Suunto 9 Baro has a very long battery life (if used properly to maximize the battery), and it only has a number of features that are all well thought out. Also, this watch’s GPS works a little better than that of its competition.
Altimeter, barometer, and GPS
Almost all high-end hiking watches have an altimeter, a barometer, and a compass. The Baro 9 has combined these three assets into one special feature, the “FusedAlt.” It has an altitude reading algorithm that combines the barometric altitude data and a GPS to provide you with more accurate data.
The GPS the Baro 9 uses is far superior than that of its competitors, which only use one source for their GPS. This high-end hiking watch can indeed use Japan’s QZSS, U.S. GPS, and Russian’s GLONASS, which can help track you anywhere you go.
In addition to this, Suunto has equipped this watch with a FusedTrack option that creates a special algorithm that combines motion sensor data and the limited GPS that you have. It reads every two-minute intervals, which then provides you with a more accurate reading of where you are currently located.
With this option, you allow the watch to save more battery life, without losing the data that you need while you’re on the go. Also, this comes in very handy when you’re at a location where satellite signals are hard to find.
Battery life
The Suunto 9 Baro uses a rechargeable lithium-ion with a percentage or icon indicator that allows you to know how much battery life you have left. If you choose to go on an in-time mode, you’ll end up using the watch without charging it between 10-14 days.
If you use the 24/7 tracking GPS with other features and mobile notifications, you’ll be able to use the watch between 5-7 days without recharging it. However, if you’re on training mode with the GPS switched on, you’ll be able to use your watch for either 25, 50 or 120 hours, depending on what features are running.
In all honestly, out of all the hiking watches in this review, the Baro 9 has the best and most efficient battery life. With this watch, you can choose what features you want to use, and what to turn off to ensure that you extend the battery life as much as possible.
Another feature that we like about this watch is that it shows you an estimate of how long the battery will last before you start an activity. It also gives you a warning on the screen if there are a couple of hours left before the battery dies.
Other features
You’ll find over 80 sports listed on the Baro 9. It works especially well if you’re tracking activities like running, because you can pair it with other apps like a foot pod, Suunto Smart Sensor, and Stryd Sensor.
Not only that, but it also has an extensive list of weather alerts and an array of tracking abilities for your personal health. Some examples include daily activities tracking, sleep tracking, recovery time after your task, and so much more.
Ease of use
The Suunto 9 Baro consists of a large touch screen display that lets you scroll through its menu. In just a couple of minutes of scrolling through the features, we were able to find all of them, and familiarize ourselves with them.
Even if it rains or snows, the touch screen works error-free. What surprised us the most is that it was still able to read our finger gestures, even if we were wearing gloves.
What we didn’t like
Even though we chose the Suunto 9 Baro as the best overall hiking watch in this review, we still found some downsides to it. Indeed, it’s expensive, has fewer features compared to other watches, has difficult apps and websites, and there are some flaws in the design.
Movescount web platform, and Suunto app
When purchasing a hiking watch, it’s important that you also check the apps and websites (if there are any). These sites and apps allow you to monitor, save your data, and check it anywhere you go. The company has moved from its Movescount app to the newly created Suunto app.
We found the app and website a bit confusing. A lot of campers mentioned that the data seen on the website doesn’t simultaneously sync up with the app, which can be a big challenge, especially if you need the data in an instant.
Another feature that this watch lacks is the customized workout. It will only alert you if it’s time to switch to another task, but unlike other high-end watches, you can’t input what that workout or task might be.
Design
What we noticed about the Suunto Baro 9 hiking watch is that it doesn’t lay flat, like your typical watch that fully connects to your wrist would. For some campers, this can be a bit uncomfortable based on their personal preferences. Also, this can cause some inaccuracies with the heart rate readings if the watch starts sliding too much on the wrist.
There’s also been some complaints about how the buttons of this watch are all located on its right side. For most right-handed hikers, there usually is a button on the left side that you can press using your thumb. This can also be less settling with left-handed hikers, because it’ll be more difficult to press the buttons.
Overall, the Suunto Baro 9 is specially made for ultra-adventurers who like to go on week-long trips. There’s a probable chance that if you’re going on a triathlon, you’ll get tired before this watch does.
Hiking is an activity that many people enjoy, and some equipment actually makes hiking easier and more fun. One of these is the hiking watch. If you’re looking to get one for yourself, read our article to know how to choose a hiking watch.
Best hiking watches with GPS
2. Garmin Fenix 5X Plus
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 96g
Measurements: 2” x 2” x 0.69”
Battery Type: Not Indicated
Reported Battery Life: Smartwatch – 20 days; GPS – 32 hours; GPS with Music – 13 hours; and UltraTrac mode – 70 hours
Barometer Altimeter: Yes
Temperature Sensor: Yes
HR Monitor: Yes
Button Lock: Yes
If you’re a feature-junky in hiking watches, consider checking out the Garmin Fenix 5X Plus. This watch has the most features in this review, making it the most versatile one. Not only that, but Garmin’s website and the app allow you to customize your workouts, and even get paid using the watch.
What we like
Considering all the features of the Fenix 5X Plus, you won’t be surprised to notice an accurate GPS monitoring, a pulse oximeter, and detailed data in almost everything that you need. Let’s dig a bit deeper into the important features.
Altimeter, barometer, and GPS
Just like any high-end hiking watches, this watch can give you altimeter data, barometer tracking, and a compass that can help you navigate your way. But what makes this watch stand out from its competitors is how accurate it can be in providing you this data.
It uses three different sources for the GPS — Galileo, U.S. GPS, and GLONASS. Although, once taken out of the box, it only has the GPS installed on it, so you would have to manually install the mentioned satellites.
With all these satellite systems, theoretically speaking, you’ll be given more accurate data. In addition to this, the Fenix 5X Plus has a background navigation map feature, which you’ll uncommonly find even with its direct competitors.
So, how accurate can this hiking watch be? It only is .01 off from Google Maps. Plus, when we navigated through the streets, it gave us an accurate tracking of our movements, even when we crossed a bridge or turned at a corner.
Garmin Connect web premium and Garmin App
Compared to the previously reviewed product, Garmin has created a website and an app that are fully functional, with complete features. Also, out of all the smartwatches manufacturers, they have the most well-built website. Thus, the only thing you need to worry about is how to mix and match its features.
Compared to other models of hiking watches, you can customize your workouts with the Fenix 5X Plus. It has an array of workout routines available on its system, and it will automatically make a sound or vibrate to inform you if it’s either time to switch to another task, or if you have exceeded or fell below your specified zone for your heart rate.
With the Garmin Connect tool, you can download widgets and apps created by Garmin or third party developers, which makes this watch even more versatile. Also, with its internal storage, you can also put up to 1,000 songs in it, customize the tracking options, use face display, and the features that you want to use.
Battery life
With all the features of the Fenix 5X Plus, it’s no surprise that it doesn’t work as great when you’re using it for your day-to-day activities. We found that with a regular use, it can last 7-9 days before needing to charge it.
Of course, when you use more features, like the GPS, music, or tracking modes, you’ll end up with less days compared to what is mentioned above.
However, you’ll see the Fenix 5X Plus shines the most when you’re doing extreme activities. Ultra-athletes will love that this watch can last for at least a day or two if you’re going to use its tracking feature and GPS to record your data.
Other features
Like we’ve mentioned several times, this hiking watch has tons of available features for you. One of its most unique features is the pulse oximeter, which measures the level of oxygen saturation circulating in your blood.
Why is this important? Well, it warns you if your oxygen saturation is too low when you’re ascending to high elevations. This typically happens when you haven’t acclimated yourself to the elevation that you’re trying to ascend.
Other features include Garmin Pay, thanks to which you can link your credit card to the Garmin Connect app. This allows you to pay with your watch anytime and anywhere. It also has a feature that can track where your phone or watch is, and a Garmin Move IQ, which still tracks your activity even if the Activity Mode is turned off.
Ease of set up and use
The Fenix 5X Plus doesn’t take much time to set up. You just have to link the app and website to your watch, then you’re good to go. But if you wanted to update the navigational maps and install the different satellites for the GPS, then it would take you around 30 minutes to an hour or so to do it.
When it comes to using the watch and its features for the first time, it should take you a couple of tries and experimentations before you get the hang of it. We suggest that you try to familiarize yourself with the app before jumping to the website, since the app is easier to learn.
Design
We also love the fact that the Garmin Fenix 5X Plus can fit any wrist size. According to the comments that we received from other campers, there were no discomfort nor sliding while using the watch, even when engaging in some major activities.
Even though it’s the largest and heaviest hiking watch in this review, a lot of users are very satisfied with how efficient and useful it is.
Overall, we didn’t find any downside to the Garmin Fenix 5X Plus. Even though it’s heavy and quite expensive, we believe that every dollar is worth it, especially with its many features, the Garmin app and website, and the ease of set up and use.
3. Suunto Spartan Sports Wrist HR
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 74g
Measurements: 1.97” x 1.97” x 0.66”
Battery Type: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Reported Battery Life: In Time Mode – 14 days; With 24/7 tracking and mobile notifications – 7 days; and training mode with GPS 10h/20h/40h
Barometer Altimeter: Yes
Temperature Sensor: No
HR Monitor: Yes
Button Lock: During exercise
First launched in 2017, the Suunto Spartan Sports Wrist HR is still considered one of the best hiking watches in the industry. It’s one of the watches that first tried to incorporate a feature that monitors your heart rate just by using the watch.
Considering that almost all high-end hiking watches have this feature now, it’s quite surprising for some people to see that this watch still performs at the top of its game. We’ll discuss more of its features further on.
What we like
If you’re a serious fitness tracker, the Suunto Sports Wrist HR can work extremely well for you. With over 80 sports modes under the Suunto watch, a user-friendly app, and a website that can provide a lot of great and detailed data, you basically won’t find anything wrong with this watch.
Altimeter, barometer, and GPS
The Sports Wrist HR only uses the U.S. GPS, but you have the option to improve its tracking with the GLONASS support. We noticed that there is at least a 400-500-meter difference in tracking if you switch this option on. Also, when it’s turned off, it only gave us some bread crumbs on the trail that we took.
Not many hiking watches can accurately monitor your treadmill running mode, which is why we really love that this watch can come very close to it. When compared to an ankle strap, it gave consistent data, making it extremely reliable.
Suunto Movescount app and website
Since it was first launched, Suunto has been constantly developing its website and mobile app. Now, you’ll find over 80 sports modes, where you can choose multiple workouts. We found that the website has more detailed data, but the app is more modern, allowing you to add personal “feelings,” photos, and even make a Suunto Movie based off the key points of your data.
If you check out the Movescount website, you’ll find a lot more data, which you can break down even further into your energy consumption, heat maps when you’re running, building your own training program, and even finding a community training within your area.
Battery life
Just like on any hiking watch, the battery performance will make a huge difference, depending on how often you use the GPS and its other features. If you’re partaking in an activity for which you need the GPS and the tracking feature, you’ll end up with a battery life between 8-12 hours.
Additionally, if you’re going to use the GLONASS option, where you need accurate GPS readings, you’ll at least see a 20% drop in battery life.
But if you’re planning to use it as an everyday smartwatch that will only track a couple of your workout sessions, then you’ll be able to use it for almost a week without having to charge it.
Heart rate accuracy and other features
The main standout point of the Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR is its optical heart rate sensors. Even though this watch was launched in 2017, we can confidently say that it performs really well in this task, even if you compare it to chest straps. This technology is powered by PerformTek, which is a leading company when it comes to biometric measurement technology.
We tested it out with well-known heart rate chest straps, and we only ended up having a 2-3bpm difference. Considering that this is Suunto’s first time creating a hiking watch that has this capability, this is a big upgrade on their lineup.
However, it’s worth noting that the Wrist HR does not work underwater, as we realized when we tried to use it while swimming. Although, the watch itself provides a very good job at recording lap counts and accurate distance during pool sessions.
Ease of set up and use
Setting up the Suunto hiking watch is fairly easy. It will take you at least 30 minutes to fully sync it with GLOSANN, and then the rest of the features are good to go. All you’ve left to do is customize your workouts and session schedules.
Additionally, the website and app are both easy to use. Just sync them up with your watch, and you’re all set!
Design
The Spartan Sport Wrist HR has a big round touchscreen display, and three physical buttons on the right side. It also has a soft-touch silicone strap for your wrist area. Compared to the previous models, which have a brushed metallic bezel around the watch, this one was replaced by a subdued black steel bezel.
The point of attention for this hiking watch is its touchscreen’s 320 x 300 resolution. Although it’s not the sharpest and brightness display, this gives you a great trade-off on its power consumption.
What we didn’t like
The Suunto Sport Wrist HR is an impressive hiking watch. The only downside we found is that it takes a couple of seconds to respond to our taps and swipes.
Before you use a hiking watch, it is important to know the features it offers, and how to use them. That way, it will be easier for you to operate it when you get to a place where you need it. Read our article to learn everything you need to know about your hiking watch.
Best hiking watches under $200
4. Casio Men’s Pro Trek PRW-3000-1CR Multi-Function Watch
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 62g
Measurements: 1.85” x 2.24” x 0.47”
Battery Type: Built-in Solar Batteries
Reported Battery Life: 7 months
Barometer Altimeter: Yes
Temperature Sensor: Yes
HR Monitor: No
Button Lock: No
If you’re looking for a more affordable option for a hiking watch, it’s worth taking a look at the Casio Men’s Pro Trek Multi-Function Watch. Compared to Casio’s previous models, this watch has better technology, a re-designed style, and an appealing size reduction.
What we like
The Pro Trek PRW-3000-1CR is loved by many hikers because it’s easy to use, and has the right amount of features that you’ll find in this price range. What sets this apart from its competitors is its solar rechargeable battery, making it last longer, actually running for months.
Altimeter, barometer, and compass
Almost all outdoor watches have an altimeter and barometer. But this watch can monitor altitudes between 10,000m and -700m below sea level, and uses a 1-meter measuring unit.
With this watch’s auto-log feature, it’s very easy to backtrack your ascend and descend number, as well as your historic low and high altitude hikes. The logging interface of the watch is user-friendly, which makes everything easy to understand.
Although, it only has the capacity to store 14 altimeter records, which means that you’ll only be able to backtrack your longest treks or highest hikes in recent weeks. Depending on how actively you hike, you can adjust the intervals of the altimeter measurement from 5 seconds to 2 minutes.
When it comes to the barometer, you’ll be able to see on your screen, in only a couple of clicks, the live measurement of the external temperature, and the external reading for the barometer.
The display will show you a pressure change indicator, an atmospheric pressure tendency graph, and a differential graphic for all the data that you need. You’ll see a 48-hour bar graph in front of your screen that displays recent readings of the barometric pressure.
Plus, for those who are concerned about sudden changes in temperature, the Pro Trek PRW-3000-1CR will let you set an alarm if there are changes in the readings of barometric pressure.
Compared to the previous products, which are on the high-end side, this hiking watch doesn’t have a GPS, but rather a 16-directional-point compass, which you’ll see on the circumference of the clocks’ face, and will help you move across your trail.
There’s also a graphic pointer that will keep track of the northern direction or any direction you want to lock into. You can then compare your locked direction and the northern direction with the graphic system whenever you need to.
Design
What sets the Casio Pro Trek apart from its competitors is its long-lasting battery life. But first, let’s look at the external components of this watch.
This hiking watch has a thick solar power panel and a durable outer shell, making it as durable as it gets for a watch. The shell itself is temperature- and water-resistant. It can withstand up to -10°C (14°F), and up to 100m depth underwater. This makes this watch versatile, and usable in any weather condition.
At this size, it’s the smallest and lightest hiking watch of this review. However, the Casio Pro Trek fits tight on the wrist, so we suggest you to try it out first, to ensure that you’re comfortable with its size.
Battery life
With the built-in solar batteries, Casio reported its battery life to last for 7 months without needing to charge it. However, most hikers who have used this watch for a long time would say that this watch lasted about a year with just one full charge.
Casio has also made some adjustments to ensure that you can preserve the battery as much as possible. For example, it has a sleep mode that it will conserve the battery if it’s unused for a certain period of time. Once you hit a button on the watch, it will automatically turn on, and it will be ready to go on an adventure with you.
Other features
The Pro Trek PRW-3000-1CR has six alarms, and one of these alarms enables you to snooze it. Although, it takes some practice to set this up. Once you’ve set it up, make sure that you go back to the phone’s interface either to deactivate the snooze or reset the alarm.
There’s also a split time recording on this watch, wherein you can effectively monitor your lap distances and elapsed time.
What we didn’t like
There are several downsides to the Casio Men’s Pro Trek Multi-Function Watch. First, there’s no lock button, which means that even if you accidentally press a button, some mishaps will likely happen. These could either reset your time, switch to another mode, or trip an alarm off.
The second downside we’ve noticed is the really bright backlight. When the backlight is activated, once you push a button, it will automatically turn off. This means that it’s almost impossible to see anything on your watch if you accidentally do this at night.
It’s also worth noting that the increase and decrease button of this Casio watch is reversed. You’ll find the “increase” ( ) button at the bottom, and the “decrease” (-) button at the top.
5. Suunto Core Wrist-Top Computer ABC Watch
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 64g
Measurements: 1.93” x 1.93” x 0.57”
Battery Type: Lithium Metal Battery
Reported Battery Life: 1 yea
Barometer Altimeter: Yes
Temperature Sensor: Ye
HR Monitor: No
Button Lock: No
The Suunto Core Wrist-Top Computer ABC Watch has been on the market for a couple of years, and has been known to provide accurate data wherever you go. With its minimalist design, affordability, and multifunctional features, you will surely love how this watch works.
What we like
After years using this watch, many have been satisfied with the efficiency of the Suunto Core’s features. Even within its price range now, just more or less $100, it’s still considered as one of the best outdoor watches on the market. We’ll further discuss its features below.
Altimeter, barometer, and compass
The Suunto Core is equipped with a smart triple sensor that effectively updates your watch with the difference in any vertical height. Whether you’re going for a quick day hike or cycling around town, it will show you the difference in the ascent and descent in your area.
You’ll find a graph on your screen if you want to check out any changes in the air pressure, which is easy to understand for anyone. Plus, thanks to the aggregated computer on this watch, you’ll find a forecast of the weather conditions, which will allow you to prepare yourself in case a storm comes.
There’s also a compass around the screen of your watch, which helps you not get lost during your trip. You’ll also find 400 locations, which will allow you to see at what time are the sunrises and sunsets anywhere in the world.
Battery life
Since this watch does not have a solar-powered battery like the previous watches in this review, Suunto has made this watch’s battery a user-replaceable one. This means that you have the power to change the battery whenever you want.
Although, it’s worth noting that the replacement of the battery costs at least $50. Many users have mentioned that they only needed to replace their batteries at least 3 times a year if they went on multiple hikes every month.
For users who don’t typically use the altimeter and barometer on this watch, the typical lifespan of the battery is about 5-7 months.
Other features
One of the most useful features of the Suunto Core is the depth gauge, which can be extremely useful when you’re going on swimming, snorkeling, or diving adventures. This feature is programmed to update you with the maximum depth in meters, and your current depth as well.
You’ll also find a chronographic display, a dual time, a stopwatch, an alarm, and a countdown timer, which makes this watch ideal for sport-oriented people. There’s also a backlight, which helps you see through the watch even at night.
Design
The Suunto Core has a mineral crystal as its glass material, and a composite for the case. Although this might not seem durable, many hikers have testified that they have been using the same watch for a couple of years.
It has an all-black finish, which makes it look sportier. It’s also lightweight, and is the perfect size for anyone to be able to use it without experiencing any discomfort.
What we didn’t like
One of the many complaints that the Suunto received is that the strap is not as durable as the case. You might want to change it on the first year, as it might snap because it can’t handle much wear and tear.
Other users expressed their frustration on the white text and black background display of the watch. Although, you can change that in the settings.
It’s also worth noting that it can be a little difficult to navigate and understand the watch at first, so we fully suggest that you try it out first and experiment your way, so that you won’t have a hard time using it when you’re already on your trip.
Best Hiking Watch Comparison Table
| Foto | Hiking Watch | Weight | Measurements | Battery Type | Barometer Altimeter | Temperature Sensor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Suunto 9 Baro  | 81g | 1.97" x 1.97" x 0.66" | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion | Yes | Yes |
| 2. Garmin Fenix 5X Plus | 96g | 2" x 2" x 0.69" | Not Indicated | Yes | Yes |
| 3. Suunto Spartan Sports Wrist HR | 74g | 1.97" x 1.97" x 0.66" | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion | Yes | No |
| 4. Casio Men's Pro Trek PRW-3000-1CR Multi-Function Watch | 62g | 1.85" x 2.24" x 0.47"Â | Built-in Solar Batteries | Yes | Yes |
| 5. Suunto Core Wrist-Top Computer ABC Watch | 64g | 1.93" x 1.93" x 0.57"Â | Lithium Metal Battery | Yes | Yes |
FAQs:
Now that we’ve covered the five best hiking watches, we’ve come up with several questions that are commonly asked by beginners and outdoorsmen alike. Here, you’ll find the answers to these questions.
Is an Apple Watch good for hiking?
With Apple’s yearly updates of their smartwatches, it may be a little confusing to consider which Apple watches are good for hiking. Considering all the apps that come with the newest Apple Watch Series 6, we can definitely say that it’s one of the best smartwatches for avid fitness trackers.
But is it good enough for hiking and other outdoor adventures? Our verdict would be no.
The consistent upgrading of the Apple Watch Series makes it more and more exciting for Apple fans, and the Series 6 is no exception. We’re not going to list all the features of this watch, but its latest additions are the blood oxygen measurement, and the native sleep tracking features.
What lacks the most in this watch is the GPS and tracking system, which are vital for any outdoor enthusiast. Yes, it has an altimeter that can track your elevation movement, but the fact that it doesn’t have a high-end GPS makes it inadequate for hikers.
Do I need a GPS-equipped watch for hiking?
When you’re wandering through the backcountry or on unfamiliar terrains, it’s crucial that you have a GPS with you to ensure that you will safely arrive at your destination. Yes, a compass can help you navigate your way, but a GPS will show you how dense the forest is, and will let you know if there are waterbeds along your way, and much more.
Now, a GPS can come in a handier equipment, like a hiking watch. With a GPS-equipped watch, you won’t need to constantly check your map or phone to see if you’re heading in the right direction. By simply glancing at your arm, you’ll be able to see where you are.
Plus, the constant evolution of technology helps hikers further understand their exact location. Many hiking watches now do not only use the U.S. GPS, but also the Japan’s QZSS and Russian’s GLONASS satellites, thus providing better accuracy readings.
Can I use my phone’s GPS for hiking?
Yes, you can use your phone as a GPS when you’re hiking. Almost all Android and iOS phones are now equipped with assisted GPS, which means that it acquires data from multiple satellites to provide you with your location.
Although, if you’re going to use your phone as your main GPS for hiking, we suggest that you pre-install some mapping apps to ensure that you have a better grasp to track your location. Plus, there are some apps that will allow you to see through the GPS without needing any internet connection. This is vital, since some areas around the world provide poor satellite and data connection.
Can I use Google Maps for hiking?
Yes, you can use Google Maps for hiking, but you should make sure that you download the area’s map and the trails that you’re planning to go through to ensure that, even on offline mode, you’ll still be able to see the map.
The article, 9 Tips and Tricks for Using Google Map Like a Pro, lists down the features, tips, and tricks that you can use on your Google Maps to guarantee that you can experience all of it.
How do you track someone on a hike?
There are several apps that you can use to track someone on a hike. Although, most apps would require an internet connection to ensure that the map and movements are accurate. Also, you should keep yours and the hiker’s phone battery lives in mind, because using GPS-tracking apps can consume a lot of battery.
Here are some of apps to track someone on a hike:
- Edmondo – This app provides live tracking, but requires a strong internet connection.
- Spot Tracker – This is one of the best tracking apps on the market today, but it still requires an internet connection, and it is a bit expensive.
- Viewranger – It has a theoretical buddy beacon that will show you where the hiker is, but it also requires an internet connection.
How do I track my hiking miles?
There are a number of ways for you to track your miles. Here are some of them:
- Use a topographical map and Google Earth.
- Plot your route using the maps.
- Track your progress with a hiking watch that is equipped with a GPS.
- Use a GPS app on your smartphone.
- Use a pedometer to count your steps.
Final Thoughts
Hiking watches have evolved and are now equipped with even more features that can help you improve your hiking experience and keep yourself safe as well. Even though there are hundreds of watches that can assist you in your adventures, only the best ones will give you the right data and features that you’ll need for your backcountry trips.
Whether you’re looking for the best hiking watches with GPS, or you’re looking for an affordable hiking watch under $200, the products we’ve reviewed above are known for their abilities to guide and help you, wherever you go. We’ve tested a number of hiking watches and these are the ones that we can confidently recommend.
