Cover These hiking apps can assist in navigating stunning hiking trails worldwide, with offline maps, GPS tools and expert planning. (Photo: Wirestock)
These hiking apps can assist in navigating stunning hiking trails worldwide, with offline maps, GPS tools and expert planning. (Photo: Wirestock)
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From local walks to epic treks, these hiking apps make finding and navigating the world’s top hiking trails easier
Approaching any hike can be a daunting concept. It doesn’t matter if it’s easy, moderate or expert-level—the excitement and corresponding planning are the same. Outdoors, anything can happen, and it’s foolish to leave anything to chance, even if the hiking trail appears to be flat and obstacle-free. Whether you want to map a local walk or prepare for a more ambitious climb abroad, these digital tools help hikers find routes, track progress and stay safe. The best ones go beyond simple navigation, offering features that can enhance planning and even share your journey with a like-minded community.
Read more: Trails and cascades: epic hikes with views of nearby waterfalls
1. Plan My Walk – safety-first planning
Developed by New Zealand’s Mountain Safety Council, Plan My Walk is one of the best hiking apps for safety-focused travellers. It provides up-to-date track alerts, weather forecasts and digital hiking maps tailored to your route. Particularly useful for less experienced hikers, it doubles as a hiking route planner, making trip preparation more structured without stripping away spontaneity.
2. All Trails – the global route library
With a community-driven database of more than 400,000 hiking trails, All Trails is often the first stop for those searching for the best apps for outdoor activities. The app includes reviews, photos and GPS functions, allowing you to compare notes with others before setting off. Its premium upgrade also unlocks offline features, a must in more remote areas.
3. Strava – tracking performance and progress
Above Goal-focused hikers will find Strava’s performance data useful. (Photo: Holly Mandarich / Unsplash)
Goal-focused hikers will find Strava’s performance data useful. (Photo: Holly Mandarich / Unsplash)
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Best known for running and cycling, Strava is also one of the top apps for hikers. It allows users to record routes and analyse performance data such as elevation, pace and distance. While the app leans toward athletes who enjoy metrics, casual hikers will still appreciate its route planning capability and the ability to track progress across different activities.
4. Gaia GPS – advanced navigation tools
Gaia GPS ranks among the best GPS apps for hiking, aimed at those who take navigation seriously. It offers detailed topographic maps, satellite imagery and navigation for hikers who want more than the basics. Offline hiking app features make it a trusted choice for backpackers, mountaineers and anyone venturing into areas where mobile coverage is unlikely.
5. PeakVisor – identify every summit
Above Track your way to Roy’s Peak in New Zealand with hiking apps like PeakVisor. (Photo: Wirestock)
Track your way to Roy’s Peak in New Zealand with hiking apps like PeakVisor. (Photo: Wirestock)
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PeakVisor is built for mountain lovers seeking outdoor apps that elevate the experience. Using 3D maps and augmented reality, it can identify peaks while providing detailed hiking trail maps and elevation profiles. With offline access, it works as both a hiking tools app and an educational guide, adding an extra dimension to any alpine adventure.
6. FarOut – thru-hiking essentials
Popular among long-distance trekkers, FarOut is the go-to for thru-hiking apps focused on iconic routes like the Pacific Crest Trail or Camino de Santiago. It includes water sources, campsite details and waypoints from its community of users. Designed as a trekking app with reliable offline functionality, it is a practical alternative to traditional guidebooks.
7. Komoot – personalised route discovery
Komoot balances discovery with detail, making it one of the best apps for backpacking as well as day hikes. It suggests routes based on fitness levels and preferences, whether that means a challenging climb or an easy valley walk. With offline maps, turn-by-turn navigation and compatibility with wearables, it is among the most versatile outdoor exploration apps.
With these hiking apps, the world’s most celebrated hiking trails feel more accessible than ever, whether you’re mapping a weekend walk or setting out on a multi-day expedition. GPS hiking apps streamline logistics, improve safety and open up hiking trails that might otherwise remain out of reach, yet still leave room for the joy of discovery that makes hiking unforgettable.
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Chonx Tibajia is a senior editor at Tatler Asia’s T-Labs team, where she writes widely on lifestyle subjects including beauty, style, entertainment and travel. She has a long career in journalism, including roles as a columnist at The Philippine Star, and is the founder of the creative platform Pineappleversed. Beyond Tatler, her bylines appear in regional lifestyle and business publications, showcasing a broad portfolio that spans beauty trends, travel guides and culture pieces.
