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 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.

The Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x is a solid choice for hikers who need a reliable handheld GPS. One of its standout features is the 2.2-inch color display, which remains readable even in sunlight, making it easy to check your location during bright days. The device is preloaded with Topo Active maps which are great for both hiking and cycling, providing detailed routes and trails.

It supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, enhancing its tracking capabilities in challenging environments that might cause other devices to struggle with accuracy. With 8 GB of internal memory and a micro SD card slot, you have plenty of room for additional map downloads. Its battery life is another plus, offering up to 25 hours of operation on two AA batteries, which is ideal for long day hikes or even short multi-day trips. Weighing just 5 ounces, it’s lightweight and portable, so it won't weigh you down on your adventures.

However, the screen size is relatively small at 2.2 inches, which might be limiting for some users when viewing detailed maps. The user interface relies on physical buttons rather than a touchscreen, which might take some getting used to but can be more reliable in wet or cold conditions. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, although some users might find the lack of more advanced connectivity features like Wi-Fi limiting. The Garmin eTrex 22x is durable, easy to use, and offers robust navigation features, making it a dependable companion for outdoor enthusiasts, though it may have some limitations in terms of screen size and connectivity options.