10 Best Hiking Gps 2025 in the United States

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact and lightweight satellite communicator designed for hikers who need reliable communication and navigation in remote areas. One of its standout features is its ability to provide two-way messaging and an interactive SOS function, ensuring safety during outdoor adventures, given that you have an active satellite subscription. The device is water-resistant, which is a significant plus for outdoor use, and its durability is enhanced by its rugged design.

In terms of navigation, the inReach Mini 2 offers TracBack routing, allowing users to find their way back to their starting point easily. The digital compass adds accurate heading information, which is crucial for navigation when you're off the beaten path. The integration with the Garmin Explore app enables effective trip planning and topographical mapping, making it easier to create waypoints and courses.

Battery life is impressive, boasting up to 14 days in tracking mode, making it suitable for extended hiking trips. The compact size and lightweight design (only 3.5 ounces) further enhance its portability, making it easy to carry on hikes. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The screen size is quite small at 1.27 inches, which may make it challenging to read in bright sunlight or for users with less than perfect eyesight. Additionally, while it has Bluetooth connectivity, the need for an active satellite subscription can be a limitation for some, adding an ongoing cost beyond the initial purchase.

The Garmin Instinct 2 is a rugged outdoor smartwatch that excels in a variety of hiking and outdoor activities. One of its significant strengths is its durability; it's water-rated to 100 meters and is built to withstand harsh environments, thanks to its thermal and shock resistance. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 28 days in smartwatch mode and about 30 hours in GPS mode, which is beneficial for long hikes without frequent recharging. With multi-GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, you can expect reliable accuracy in tracking your location, which is crucial for outdoor navigation.

While the screen size of 1.12 inches is adequate, some users might find it a bit small for easier readability, especially in bright sunlight. Although the interface is user-friendly, it relies on buttons rather than a touchscreen, which might feel less intuitive for some users accustomed to modern smart technology. Additionally, while it includes health monitoring features, it's important to note that these are not a substitute for medical devices, and the Pulse Ox feature isn't available in all countries.

For those who enjoy outdoor sports beyond hiking, the watch offers built-in sports apps and training features that can enhance your fitness experience. If you're looking for a lightweight option, the Instinct 2's weight of only 1.83 ounces makes it a portable choice for any adventure. This watch is an excellent fit for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability, battery life, and accurate navigation features, though those needing a larger screen might want to consider alternatives.

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is a highly capable handheld GPS device designed specifically for hiking and outdoor adventures. One of its standout features is its impressive battery life, offering up to 165 hours in tracking mode and 425 hours in expedition mode, which is excellent for long trips. The device's large 3-inch sunlight-readable color display ensures that you can easily view maps and data, even in bright conditions. Additionally, it supports advanced mapping and navigation features, including preloaded TopoActive maps and multi-band GNSS support, making it reliable for getting accurate location data in various terrains.

The GPSMAP 67i also comes equipped with inReach satellite technology, allowing for two-way messaging and SOS capabilities via the global Iridium satellite network, which can be a lifesaver in emergency situations when cellular coverage is unavailable. The potential to pair it with a smartphone for weather updates and geocaching adds to its versatility.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the device is robust and built for outdoor use, its weight of 8.1 ounces may be a bit heavy for some users who prefer lighter options for long-distance hiking. The user interface, while straightforward, might still require some getting used to for those unfamiliar with GPS devices. Furthermore, using the inReach features necessitates an active subscription, which can add to the overall costs.