GPS Tracker For Hiking

Best Hiking GPS Trackers For Adventurers In 2025

When you’re hiking, it’s easy to lose your way, especially if you’re not on a well-marked trail. A GPS device with a digital compass can help you keep track of where you are and avoid getting lost, especially when you combine it with a good map and basic navigation skills. But with so many options out there, finding the right GPS tracker for hiking can feel overwhelming.

Don’t worry—we here at Konnect GPS have got you covered. We’ll walk you through the key features to look for in a hiking GPS and share some helpful tips for your outdoor adventures. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what to consider when choosing a GPS for your next hike. And the best part? We don't sell any of these hiking GPS trackers and we did not receive any compensation for mentioning the products. This means we have no incentive other than to give you our trusted reader our honest, expert opinions.

What Are GPS Trackers For Hiking?

GPS trackers for hiking are small devices that use satellite signals to keep track of where you are. These gadgets can do more than just pinpoint your location—they can help plan your route, mark important spots along the way, and even track your progress in real-time. Whether you’re exploring solo or with a group, a GPS tracker can be incredibly useful. They’re also popular for outdoor activities like camping and hunting.

When choosing a GPS tracker for hiking, there are a few things to keep in mind. Battery life is one of the big ones. If you’re just heading out for a quick hike that lasts a few hours, you probably don’t need to worry much about how long the battery lasts. But if you’re planning a multi-day backpacking trip, having a tracker with a long-lasting battery is crucial. Another thing to consider is how remote your hikes are. If you usually stick to well-marked trails in local parks, you might not need a tracker with an SOS feature. But if you’re often venturing into the backcountry, doing activities like skiing or rock climbing in isolated areas, having the ability to call for help could be a lifesaver.

That means there is a wide range of options, depending on what you need. Let’s look at some of the best GPS trackers for hiking, however, so you can an informed choice.

Top 10 GPS Trackers for Hiking

Garmin GPSMAP 78sc

 

Features:

• High-sensitivity receiver for improved tracking in challenging environments
• 3-axis electronic compass and barometric altimeter for accurate navigation
• Waterproof and floating design for use on land and water
• Built-in 8 megapixel camera and microSD card slot for storing photos and maps
• Worldwide shaded relief basemap and the ability to add additional maps

This is our favorite waterproof GPS model, with the added benefit of floating, so if you drop it in the water, it won’t be lost or damaged. Additional fun features include an electronic compass and barometric altimeter, wireless route sharing, and 2.6-inch color TFT display.

 

 

Garmin Rino 755t

 

Garmin Rino 755t   Navigate & Communicate: Combines GPS navigation with a 5W GMRS two-way radio for staying connected in remote areas.  Track & Share: Track your location and share it with others using position reporting, ideal for group adventures.   See Clearly: Preloaded TOPO maps and an 8MP camera let you capture the details of your journey.

5/5 Check Out on Amazon Watch Video Review

Features:

• Dual-band (FRS/GMRS) radio with a range of up to 14 miles
• 5 W FRS/GMRS, 2 W GMRS, and 1 W FRS
• High-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver with preloaded TOPO maps
• 3-inch sunlight-readable color display with dual-orientation capability
• Wireless connectivity for sharing locations, waypoints, and tracks with other Rino users
• 8MP autofocus camera with flash and the ability to geotag your photos
• Barometric altimeter and 3-axis electronic compass for accurate navigation

One of the most reliable GPS models, the 5-watt FRS/GMRS 2-way radio is an additional nice touch, as is the 8-megapixel autofocus camera, electronic compass, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter.

 

 

Garmin eTrex 30x

 

Features:

• High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support for improved tracking
• 2.2-inch color display with a durable, sunlight-readable design
• Expandable memory with a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Wireless connectivity for sharing waypoints, tracks, and routes with other compatible devices
• Preloaded worldwide basemap with shaded relief and the ability to add additional maps, such as TOPO and BirdsEye satellite imagery

The increased internal memory is great for holding more maps, and the barometric altimeter is great for tracking your elevation gain and descent. The 2.2-inch display has great resolution, and the shaded relief is a nice touch on the base map screen. (The eTrex 20x is also a worthwhile option, but we’re just a little partial to the 30x.)

 

 

Garmin Oregon 600

 

Features:

• 3-inch sunlight-readable, dual-orientation color touchscreen display
• Wireless connectivity for sharing waypoints, tracks, and routes with other compatible devices
• Preloaded worldwide basemap and the ability to add additional maps, such as TOPO and BirdsEye satellite imagery
• Rugged, waterproof design for use in various outdoor conditions
• Built-in camera with geotagging capabilities
• Expandable memory with a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Customizable interface with the ability to add and arrange data fields, and a dual-battery system (3 AA batteries or an optional rechargeable battery pack)

This might be our favorite touchscreen display, and the dual battery system (either a NiMH battery back or 2 AA batteries will power it) is a nice touch, too.

 

 

DeLorme inReach Explorer

 

Features:

• 2-way satellite communication for messaging, tracking, and SOS capabilities
• 100% global coverage through the Iridium satellite network
• Built-in GPS and navigation with preloaded DeLorme topographic maps
• Waterproof and impact-resistant design for use in various outdoor conditions
• Long battery life of up to 100 hours in tracking mode and up to 30 days in power-saving mode
• Customizable message templates and the ability to send and receive messages with any cell phone number or email address
• Built-in compass, barometer, and accelerometer
• Online trip-planning and management tools
• Option to add weather forecast service

With 100 hours of battery life, the inReach Explorer is best for big adventures, and with the added features like satellite messaging and SOS tracking capabilities should you need SAR. Should you want to use it as a GPS tracker, you can, with reports anywhere from every 10 minutes to every 4 hours. While the screen is small (only 1.8 inches), it’s one of the best big adventure units you could ever consider.

 

 

Garmin GPSMAP 66St

 

Features:

• 2.6-inch sunlight-readable, color display with dual-orientation capabilities
• Rugged, waterproof design for use in various outdoor conditions
• Expandable memory with a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Built-in barometric altimeter and 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass
• Customizable interface with the ability to add and arrange data fields
• Long battery life of up to 20 hours in GPS mode

One of the most rugged devices out there, the GPSMAP 66St is great even in bright sun (which can make many screens hard to read) and works well with Custom Maps, an app that allows you to turn paper maps into downloadable ones.

Read a detailed review on this GPS tracker for hiking on Trailspace.com

 

 

Garmin Foretrex 401

 

Features:

• High-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support for improved tracking
• Waterproof and rugged design for use in various outdoor conditions
• 2.6-inch monochrome display with a user-friendly interface
• Long battery life of up to 17 hours in GPS mode
• Built-in electronic compass and barometric altimeter for accurate navigation
• Built-in trip computer to track multiple data such as trip distance, time, and more
• Customizable data fields and alerts
• Ability to add additional maps with a microSD card (sold separately)

While admittedly not as feature-laden as some of the other Garmin devices on this list, the Foretrex 401 still offers plenty of bang—and at a lower price than most other comparable units, it’s probably the best budget GPS device.

 

 

Garmin Montana 700

 

Features

• 3-inch sunlight-readable, dual-orientation color touchscreen display
• Preloaded worldwide basemap and the ability to add additional maps, such as TOPO and BirdsEye satellite imagery
• Rugged, waterproof design for use in various outdoor conditions
• Built-in camera with geotagging capabilities
• Expandable memory with a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Customizable interface with the ability to add and arrange data fields
• Dual battery system (2 AA batteries or an optional rechargeable battery pack)

One of our favorite backcountry GPS trackers, the Garmin Montana 700 may lack some of the extra features of the inReach Explorer, but in exchange, it offers waterproof protection.

Garmin GPSMAP 64St

 

Features:

• 2.6-inch sunlight-readable, color display with dual-orientation capabilities
• Preloaded worldwide basemap and the ability to add additional maps, such as TOPO and BirdsEye satellite imagery
• Rugged, waterproof design for use in various outdoor conditions
• Expandable memory with a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Customizable interface with the ability to add and arrange data fields
• Long battery life of up to 16 hours in GPS mode
• Wireless connectivity for downloading software updates, geocaching GPX files, and connecting with other compatible devices

Perhaps the only drawback is the 16-hour battery life—and even that is plenty long enough for most one-day adventures. With dual battery systems (rechargeable NiMH battery packs or 2 AA batteries), 8 GB of expandable internal memory, and a beautiful 2.6-inch display, it just doesn’t get any better.

 

 

Garmin Montana 680t

 

Features:

• 4-inch dual-orientation, sunlight-readable color touchscreen display
• Preloaded worldwide basemap and the ability to add additional maps, such as TOPO and BirdsEye satellite imagery
• Rugged, waterproof design for use in various outdoor conditions
• Expandable memory with a microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Built-in 8-megapixel autofocus camera with geotagging capabilities
• Customizable interface with the ability to add and arrange data fields
• Dual battery system (2 AA batteries or an optional rechargeable battery pack)
• Wireless connectivity for downloading software updates, geocaching GPX files, and connecting with other compatible devices

Of course, the Montana 680 offers nearly as many great features in addition to an 8-megapixel camera, 250,000 pre-loaded geocaches, and Track Manager to help keep your waypoints organized. As a result, this is definitely the best option for geocaching and possibly the best option for orienteering or navigation competitions as well.

You’ll note that there are quite a few Garmin models on that list—9 out of the 10. The truth is that there are a few other brands that also make good GPS tracker for hiking options (DeLorme, for instance, which had the 10^th model on the list, as well as Spot and Magellan, both of which make some great GPS trackers). Garmin simply offers the best choices, and that was reflected in our list.

 

 

 

5 Key Features When Buying Hiking GPS Trackers

1. Battery Life That Lasts

Long-lasting battery life is crucial, especially if you're heading off-grid or on a multi-day trek. Look for GPS units with options like Expedition Mode to extend battery life or dual battery systems for extra flexibility. Trust me, the last thing you want is your tracker dying when you’re deep in the backcountry.

2. Satellite Messaging and SOS Capabilities

Safety first—if you hike in remote areas, a GPS with two-way messaging and SOS is invaluable. With units like the Garmin inReach Mini, you can communicate even beyond cell range, allowing you to check in with family or call for help if things go sideways.

3. Reliable Global Navigation Systems

A GPS tracker that supports multiple satellite systems like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo gives you more accurate positioning, even in challenging terrain. Devices like the Garmin GPSMAP 66i use these systems to keep you connected wherever you go, enhancing navigation accuracy.

4. Detailed Mapping and Compass Features

For serious navigation, a GPS device with topo maps and a built-in compass helps you read the terrain and stay oriented. With tools like the Garmin Explore app, you can preload maps, mark waypoints, and plan your route, so you’re well-prepared for the adventure.

5. Compact and Durable Design

Weight and durability matter when you’re packing for a hike. Portable units like the Garmin eTrex 22x are rugged, lightweight, and easy to stash in a pocket or attach to your gear, making them perfect for outdoor exploration in all kinds of conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Handheld GPS On The Market?

So what’s the best handheld GPS on the market? Call it a cop-out if you must, but we’re of the opinion that the best handheld hiking GPS tracker is the one that helps encourage you to hike more and puts your mind at ease when you are out adventuring. Think about the features you need—whether that’s waypoints, navigational maps, satellite messaging, the ability to send an SOS signal, or whatever else—to best support your adventures.

Do you know the other advantage of our list above? Each of those 10 we chose is best for a particular feature or use. So, without further ado:

• Best geocaching GPS: Garmin Montana 680
• Best one-day adventure GPS: Garmin GPSMAP 64st
• Best one-day backcountry GPS: Garmin Oregon 450t
• Best budget GPS: Garmin Foretrex 401
• Best rugged GPS: Garmin GPSMAP 62St
• Best display: Garmin Oregon 600
• Best battery life/best big adventure GPS: DeLorme inReach Explorer
• Best multi-use GPS: Garmin eTrex 30x
• Best reliable GPS: Garmin Rino 755t
• Best waterproof GPS: Garmin GPSMAP 78sc

How Accurate Is The Most Accurate Hiking GPS?

The accuracy of hiking GPS trackers varies, but technology has come a long way from the early days. Older civilian GPS receivers might get you within a few hundred meters, but today’s models—especially those with support from multiple satellite networks like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo—can often pinpoint you within a few feet. The most advanced handheld GPS devices, like the Garmin GPSMAP series, offer remarkable accuracy, especially when you’re in wide-open spaces with a clear view of the sky.

Most smartphones these days can get within about 5 meters (16 feet) of your exact location, and many hiking GPS devices perform just as well, if not better. Just keep in mind that dense forests, canyons, or thick cloud cover can impact accuracy. While military GPS systems have an edge thanks to dual receivers, civilian-grade GPS is still incredibly reliable for hiking and backcountry adventures. And, in case you were wondering, Selective Availability (the intentional degradation of civilian GPS signals) hasn’t been in use since the early 2000s—so you’re getting the best signal that today’s tech allows.

You can learn more about GPS accuracy in this Fleet1st article.

Does Hiking On A Cloudy Day Affect My GPS?

No, clouds are not one of those things that affect GPS signals. In fact, if you’re out in the woods and notice a bit of cloud cover, that won’t be enough to disrupt your hiking GPS tracker.

Can Car GPS Be Used For Hiking?

In short, not really. If your car GPS is portable and has a pedestrian mode, it could work for short urban hikes. Pedestrian mode adjusts the route for walking instead of driving, so you can follow directions on foot. But remember, these devices are meant for streets, not trails, so they won’t be much help if you venture into the backcountry.

Also, car GPS units typically don’t have long battery lives—usually only a few hours. So, you’ll have to manage the power to make it last. If you’re just testing it out, turning it off when you’re not using it will help conserve battery. But honestly, if you’re planning to go beyond a short walk, a handheld GPS designed for hiking trails is a much better choice.