10 Best Off Road Gps Units 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Tread Powersport Off-Road Navigator stands out as a reliable choice for off-road enthusiasts who need a durable and feature-rich GPS device. Its rugged design, with an IPX7 water rating, ensures it can withstand tough outdoor conditions, making it ideal for ATVs and snowmobiles. The 5.5-inch ultrabright touchscreen is glove-friendly, which is particularly useful when navigating in colder climates. It comes preloaded with extensive topographic maps of North and Central America, including detailed information on public and private lands, which enhances its utility for off-road adventures.

One of the significant strengths of the Tread is its mapping and navigation features, including access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery without a subscription, which is a fantastic perk for those who want to explore new areas. The built-in altimeter, barometer, and compass also add to its navigational capabilities, helping users tackle challenging terrains effectively. Plus, it can sync with the Tread app for seamless waypoint and track management across devices, which many outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The battery life, while decent at around 6 hours, may not be sufficient for extended off-road trips without access to charging options. Additionally, while it pairs with inReach satellite communicators for global communication, these devices require a separate purchase and subscription, which could add to overall costs. Some users might also find the user interface a bit complex if they're not familiar with GPS devices, so there could be a learning curve involved.

The Garmin eTrex 22x is a reliable handheld GPS unit designed for off-road adventures like camping and hiking. It features a 2.2-inch color display that is sunlight-readable, making it easier to view maps and data even in bright conditions. While the screen size is relatively small, the display resolution of 240 x 320 pixels ensures that details remain clear.

The unit is rugged and designed to withstand various outdoor elements. The device runs on 2 AA batteries, offering up to 25 hours of continuous use in GPS mode, which is quite impressive for extended outdoor activities without frequent battery changes. Preloaded with Topo Active maps, it includes routable roads and trails for both cycling and hiking, enhancing its navigation capabilities.

The eTrex 22x supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, providing better tracking accuracy in challenging environments like dense forests or deep valleys. With 8 GB of internal memory and a microSD slot, users can download additional maps as needed. The user interface relies on physical buttons, ensuring usability even with gloves on, though some might find it less intuitive compared to touchscreens. Weighing just 5 ounces and with compact dimensions, it is easy to carry around. With a robust design and strong functionality, the eTrex 22x is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts, though users seeking a larger screen or touchscreen interface might find it less appealing.

The Garmin Montana 700 is designed to be a rugged outdoor companion, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and ATV adventures. Its durable construction meets military standards for thermal and shock resistance and is waterproof, making it reliable for various extreme conditions. The 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen is a notable improvement, providing a larger display that's easy to navigate while on the go. The device offers robust multi-GNSS support, ensuring impressive satellite reception and accuracy, which is crucial for off-road navigation.

A strong point is its extensive mapping capabilities, with preloaded TopoActive maps and the ability to download BirdsEye Satellite Imagery directly to the device through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The included sensors, like the 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, enhance navigation further. Users will appreciate the integration with the Garmin Explore app, streamlining route management and data analysis.

Despite its many strengths, the Montana 700 has some drawbacks. The screen resolution at 480 x 800 may feel a bit basic compared to some modern devices, which could affect the visual experience of maps or imagery. Battery life is decent but may not last as long as some users might hope, especially with heavy use of features like satellite imagery and connectivity options. Additionally, while the user interface is generally user-friendly, first-time users may find the multitude of features somewhat overwhelming. It may take some time to fully understand all the capabilities. Lastly, while it might not be the most affordable option, it is important to consider this for budget-conscious buyers.

The Garmin Montana 700 stands out for its durability, mapping features, and connectivity, making it an excellent choice for serious outdoor adventurers willing to invest in a high-quality GPS unit.