Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities that people enjoy. It’s a great way to explore nature, get some exercise, and relieve stress. However, hiking can be dangerous if you don’t have the right equipment. One essential piece of equipment that every hiker should have is a good handheld GPS.
A handheld GPS is a small, portable device that uses satellite technology to determine your location. It’s an excellent tool for hikers because it can help you navigate through unfamiliar terrain, track your progress, and even send out distress signals in case of an emergency. However, not all handheld GPS devices are created equal.
If you want to discover the best personal GPS tracker for hiking, then welcome. This guide will take you handheld GPS reviews for all the top products on the market right now so you can find the best trail GPS to fit your needs and budget.
I am a national park and hiking and camping expert. I spent hours researching and testing various handheld GPS devices to identify the ones that are best suited for hiking.
I reviewed dozens of products on the market, narrowed them down and then tried these on the shortlist out so you can benefit from my experience and take the mystery out of your purchase. In this article, I’ll share my top picks and provide a detailed review, based on my experience, of each one.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, our guide will help you choose the best GPS device for hiking for your needs.
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Finding the best handheld GPS for hiking
Before we begin, let’s outline why this guide contains only Garmin handheld GPS reviews, and none from any other manufacturer.
This is simply because Garmin is the global leader when it comes to quality and innovation in the field of handheld hiking GPS navigation systems, and makes top hiking GPS systems with the highest ratings and most genuinely useful features.
Garmin have not sponsored this guide, so you can be confident of reading our unbiased opinion in every handheld GPS review included here. As always, only the products we have found to be the best are recommended here.
What’s the best hiking GPS overall?
The best GPS locator for hikers is the Garmin GPSMAP 66i. View it here.
Why buy the Garmin GPSMAP 66i?
The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is the best GPS unit for hiking overall because of its high performance and impressive features. it comes with satellite messaging and SOS signaling capabilities plus a clear three-inch screen as well as live weather forecasts and geocaching.
>> Click here to see the Garmin GPSMAP 66i
So Garmin make all the best rated handheld GPS devices. What else do you need to know? Also included among the best handheld Garmin GPS reviews are several wearable options, as well as compact handheld GPS systems that will fit into the palm of your hand.
Stay right here to find the best hiking GPS. We’ve tested and reviewed each device on this list to ensure that they are reliable and accurate.
We’ll dive into detailed reviews of the top products based on our experience so you can find the best outdoor GPS for you. Whether you want to find a handheld GPS with maps, the easiest handheld GPS to use, the smallest handheld GPS, a handheld GPS that’s waterproof or the best budget GPS for hiking, this guide will help you track the right one down.
This is followed by a Buying Guide – what to look for when making your decision.
Finally, we end with some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) around the topic of what is the best handheld GPS to buy, to further help you in making your mind up.
Best GPS for Hiking Comparison Table
| Name | Image | Key Features | Our Rating (/5) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin GPSMAP 66i | SOS signalling & satellite messaging Live forecasts & geocaching Clear screen | 4.9 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin eTrex 22x | Good value price Rugged & compact Preloaded TopoActive mapping | 4.3 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin Montana 700i | Satellite imagery Global connectivity Military grade construction | 4.4 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin inReach Mini | Ultra portable Mobile device connectivity Compatible with Geos SOS | 4.6 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic edition | Night vision goggles compatible Compass & barometer Smart notifications | 4.8 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin Instinct Tactical | Wearable watch Trackback function Water, heat & shock resistant | 4.5 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin Tactix Solar | Military style Solar charging Superb connectivity & compatibility | 4.8 | CHECK NOW | |
| Garmin Rino 755t | Preloaded topographical maps Large screen 2-way radio communication | 4.6 | CHECK NOW |
The Best Handheld GPS for Hikers
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
Garmin makes many of the best handheld GPS units for hiking and among those the GPSMAP 66i is our top pick of them all.
Pros
- The large 3-inch sunlight-readable color display makes it easy to view the maps and track your location even in bright sunlight.
- With the interactive SOS feature, you can trigger an emergency response from the GEOS 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center and communicate via two-way messaging using the 100% global Iridium satellite network.
- The Garmin GPSMAP 66i comes preloaded with Garmin TOPO mapping and enables direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads without the need for an annual subscription.\
- Live geocaching & active weather forecasts
Cons
- The cellular connectivity feature may not work in all areas, especially in remote locations. It was OK for me, but something to consider.
- The user interface takes some time to get used to.
We recently took the Garmin GPSMAP 66i on a hiking trip, and we were impressed with its accuracy and reliability. The device provided us with detailed topographic maps and allowed us to track our location and progress easily.
The interactive SOS feature gave us peace of mind knowing that we could call for help in case of an emergency. The two-way messaging feature also allowed us to communicate with our friends and family back home, letting them know that we were safe and sound.
Satellite image downloads require no subscription and this handheld GPS from Garmin can also access numerous Global Navigation Satellite Systems and sensors. Live geocaching and active weather forecasting is also available.
The battery life was impressive, lasting up to 35 hours in 10-minute tracking mode and 1-minute tracking mode (display off) and up to 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking.
However, I found the interface a little confusing at first and it took me a while to get used to it. You may find it easier!
Overall, if you’re in the market for a high-quality GPS handheld and satellite communicator, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is our top pick.
>> Click here to view the Garmin GPSMAP 66i on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin GPSMAP 66i on REI
Garmin eTrex 22x
If you’re looking for a reliable but affordable handheld GPS navigator, the Garmin eTrex 22x is a top contender for best Garmin handheld GPS for hiking.
Pros
- The 2.2″ sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels makes it easy to read maps and navigate in bright sunlight.
- The device comes preloaded with Topo Active maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking (however see Con below about maps).
- With support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, the device can track your location in more challenging environments than GPS alone.
- Compact, rugged design.
- Great value for a Garmin device.
Cons
- The map that comes installed is not very useful for hiking o all trails. I recommend installing a micro SD card and downloading a better map.
- The device’s compass is GPS-based, not a true electronic compass, so it may not work if you’re not under a satellite or not moving.
- You’ll need to buy a Garmin chip loaded with maps or download free ones onto your own chip if you want to use the device for travel on road and towns.
We’ve used the Garmin eTrex 22x on several hiking trips, and it’s been a reliable companion. The device’s color display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight, and the preloaded TopoActive maps help you plan cycling or hiking routes.
We appreciate the device’s support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, which makes it more reliable in challenging environments. However, we do recommend installing a better map if you’re planning on hiking in an area with poor coverage.
Overall, we highly recommend the Garmin eTrex 22x for anyone looking for a reliable handheld GPS navigator.
>> Click here to view the Garmin eTrex 22x on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin eTrex 22x on REI
Garmin Montana 700i
If you are looking for a reliable and durable GPS device for your hiking trips, the Garmin Montana 700i is a serious contender as best Garmin GPS for hiking.
Pros
- The device features a 5” color touchscreen display with a full QWERTY keyboard that makes messaging and navigation easier.
- It has TopoActive and City Navigator maps that allow for routable on- or off-road navigation.
- The device comes with inReach satellite technology that enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS.
Cons
- The device is a bit bulky and heavy.
- The user manual does not provide much information on some features, such as profiles and phone notifications.
- The device has limited track memory, even with a micro SD card.
We recently used the Garmin Montana 700i on a hiking trip and were impressed with its performance. The device features a rugged military-grade construction that makes it durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions. The 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display is 50% larger than earlier models, making it easy to read and use even in bright sunlight.
The device comes with TopoActive and City Navigator maps that we found to be accurate and detailed. We were able to navigate our way through both on- and off-road routes without any issues. The inReach satellite technology is a great feature that allows us to send and receive messages, and trigger an interactive SOS in case of an emergency. This device also works with the Garmin Explore app.
However, the device is a bit bulky and heavy, which might be an issue for some hikers who prefer lighter and more compact devices. Additionally, the user manual does not provide much information on some features, such as profiles and phone notifications. We had to search online to find more information on these features.
Overall, we highly recommend the Garmin Montana 700i for anyone looking for a reliable and durable GPS device for their hiking trips. Its TopoActive and City Navigator maps, inReach satellite technology, and rugged construction make it a great investment.
>> Click here to view the Garmin Montana 700i on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin Montana 700i on Al’s.com
Garmin inReach Mini
If you’re an adventurer who loves to explore off-the-grid, the Garmin InReach Mini is your go-to solution for maintaining contact. It’s a compact, lightweight satellite communicator that allows you to send and receive text messages, track and share your journey, and trigger an SOS alert if necessary.
Pros
- The Garmin InReach Mini is small, rugged, and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on any adventure.
- It enables two-way text messaging using the 100% global Iridium network, which means you can stay in touch no matter where you are in the world.
- You can access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery, and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices.
- Mobile device pairing for Earthmate app access.
Cons
- The satellite subscription required to use the Garmin InReach Mini can be expensive, especially if you plan to use it frequently.
- The display size is quite small at 0.9 x 0.9 inches, which can make it difficult to read messages or view maps.
- The device does not come with a built-in map, so you need to download maps through the Garmin Earthmate app before you head out on your adventure.
We recently took the Garmin InReach Mini on a backpacking trip in the Rockies, and we were impressed with its performance. The device was easy to set up, and we were able to send and receive text messages with ease. The GPS tracking feature was also helpful, as it allowed our friends and family to follow our journey in real-time.
You can pair the inReach Mini with the Garmin Pilot smartphone app, and others can track your progress via the MapShare system. The Garmin Earthmate app also lets you access color imagery, downloadable maps and more.
One thing to note is that the satellite subscription required to use the device can be quite expensive, especially if you plan to use it frequently. However, if you’re someone who frequently ventures off the beaten path, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can stay in touch with loved ones in case of an emergency is priceless.
Also, at 09. inches square, the screen is small, but that is the price paid for having such a compact model at your disposal: this GPS handheld Garmin can fit within the palm of your hand.
Overall, we highly recommend the Garmin InReach Mini to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use satellite communicator for their outdoor adventures.
>> Click here to view the Garmin inReach Mini on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin inReach Mini on REI
Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic edition
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves to go on long hikes, the Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition is an excellent GPS navigator to consider. This is a wearable device rather than a compact Garmin handheld GPS, but I’ve included it here as a reliable alternative in case you decide you prefer a hands-free model.
Pros
- Durable and shock-resistant, constructed to military standards (MIL-STD-810G)
- Accurate positioning with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems
- Includes navigation sensors, such as a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis compass, and a barometric altimeter
Cons
- Screen size is small and difficult to read in bright sunlight
- Buttons are a bit hard to press
We recently got our hands on the Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition, and we were impressed with its performance. The device is built to military standards, so it can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. We dropped it a few times, and it still worked perfectly fine.
You can also keep in touch when smart notifications are enabled to alert you to texts, emails and alerts.
The GPS navigator uses GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems to provide accurate positioning. We found that it was quick to lock onto satellites and didn’t lose connection even in densely wooded areas. The device also includes navigation sensors, such as a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis compass, and a barometric altimeter, which came in handy when we were hiking in the mountains.
The battery life on the Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition is impressive. It exceeded 48 hours in navigation mode and lasted up to a week in UltraTrac mode. We liked that we didn’t have to worry about charging it every day.
The main downside to the Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition is that the screen size is small, and is difficult to read in bright sunlight.
Overall, we think the Garmin Foretrex 701 Ballistic Edition is an excellent GPS navigator for outdoor enthusiasts who love to go on long hikes. It’s durable, accurate, and has a long battery life. If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, it’s definitely worth considering.
>> Click here to view the Garmin Foretrex 701 on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin Foretrex 701 on Sportsman’s Warehouse
Garmin Tactix Delta Solar
I’m including this GPS smartwatch as another option to consider when looking for the best GPS tracker for hikers.
Pros
- The solar charging lens allows for extended battery life, making it possible to go weeks without having to recharge the watch.
- Specialized tactical features, such as stealth mode and a kill switch, make it ideal for use in the field.
- The always-on 1.4″ display with black DLC-coated bezel is easy to read in any lighting conditions.
Cons
- The watch is quite bulky. It was OK for me, but it may not be ideal for those with smaller wrists.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Garmin tactix Delta Solar on a hiking trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The watch was able to accurately track our location and provide detailed maps of the area, even in areas with poor GPS reception.
The solar charging lens was a real game-changer, allowing us to go several days without having to recharge the watch. And when we did need to recharge, it only took a few hours in direct sunlight to get the watch back up to full power.
The watch’s specialized tactical features were also a big plus, giving us peace of mind when we were out in the field. And the always-on display made it easy to check the time or our location without having to stop and wake up the watch.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Garmin tactix Delta Solar to anyone looking for a high-quality GPS smartwatch that can keep up with their outdoor adventures.
>> Click here to view the Garmin Tactix Solar on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin Tactix Solar on REI
Garmin Rino 755t
The Garmin Rino 755t is not only a reliable handheld GPS, it’s also a walkie-talkie.
Pros
- The high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite reception allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone.
- The 5 W GMRS two-way radio offers extended range, up to 20 miles, and the communicate by voice or unit-to-unit text messaging feature is very useful.
- The position reporting feature shows locations of other Rino users on the same channel, which is great for keeping track of your group.
Cons
- The battery life is not the best, with up to 14 hours between charges on lithium-ion pack or up to 18 hours with optional AA batteries (sold separately).
- The unit is quite bulky and heavy, which can be a downside for some hikers who prefer lightweight gear.
We recently used the Garmin Rino 755t on a hiking trip and found it to be very reliable and easy to use. The 3” sunlight-readable touchscreen with dual orientation (landscape or portrait view) is a great feature that makes it easy to read the maps and navigate through the menus.
The two-way radio communication is a very useful feature, especially when hiking in a group. We were able to communicate with each other easily and the voice quality was clear and crisp. The position reporting feature was also very helpful in keeping track of our group and making sure we stayed together.
One downside of the Garmin Rino 755t is the battery life. We had to recharge the unit every night, which was a bit of a hassle. It wouldn’t be suitable for multi-day backcountry trips (unless you wanted to carry extra AA batteries with you).
Overall, we would recommend the Garmin Rino 755t to anyone looking for a reliable handheld GPS for short hiking trips. It has a lot of great features that make it very useful on the trail, and the high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite reception is a huge plus.
>> Click here to view the Garmin Rino 755t on Amazon
>> Click here to view the Garmin Rino 755t on Sportman’s Warehouse
Buying Guide – How to choose the best handheld GPS for hiking
When choosing the best handheld GPS for hiking, there are several features to consider. We have compiled a list of the most important factors to help make your decision easier.
Navigation Features
The primary function of a handheld GPS is to provide accurate navigation information. Look for a device with reliable and accurate GPS tracking, as well as the ability to download maps. A high-resolution display is also important for viewing maps and tracking your progress.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a handheld GPS. Look for a device with a long battery life that can last for several days of continuous use. Consider purchasing a device with replaceable batteries or the ability to recharge via USB.
Durability
Durability is important for any outdoor gear, and handheld GPS devices are no exception. Look for a device that is waterproof and rugged, with a sturdy exterior that can withstand drops and impacts.
Additional Features
What makes the best handheld GPS unit will vary from one hiker to another, so it really depends on your preferences, budget and the conditions you hike in.
For some the top personal GPS tracker for hikers will be a wearable unit rather than a handheld one. Or you may, for example, want to look for a device with a large, clear screen that’s viewable even in bright sunlight.
Price
Handheld GPS devices can vary greatly in price, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features.
Choosing the Best GPS for Hikers – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best handheld GPS on the market?
If you want to know what is the best handheld GPS unit, then first of all you need look no further than Garmin. Their great range makes it easy to find the best portable GPS for hiking. Of all products, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is very highly rated and offers genuinely useful features that we have found to help ensure every trip goes according to plan.
Is a GPS useful for hiking?
Yes, a GPS can be very useful for hiking. Using a portable GPS for hiking means you can navigate easily through unfamiliar terrain, even when there’s poor visibility and a distinct lack of landmarks to plot and track your route.
It can also help you keep track of your location, and plan your route. Plus, it help you find your way back to your starting point or to a specific location.
Whether you enjoy day hikes in the mountains or longer treks across the country, a wearable or handheld GPS system will make life simpler as well as more rewarding.
What is the easiest GPS to use for hiking?
What makes the best handheld GPS unit will vary from one hiker to another, so it really depends on your preferences, budget and the conditions you hike in.
For some the top personal GPS tracker for hikers will be a wearable unit rather than a handheld one. Or you may, for example, want to look for a device with a large, clear screen that’s viewable even in bright sunlight.
How do I choose a hiking GPS?
So which handheld GPS is best for you? When picking a personal GPS for hiking, look for features such as the screen size, a high-quality receiver, long battery life, durable construction, and easy-to-use interface.
You may also want to consider features such as preloaded maps, wireless connectivity, the ability to track your progress and share your data, and of course whether or not it has the functions you would find most useful. Will it be easy to carry, help you find your way and keep you in touch with what’s going on?
Is a Garmin GPS worth it?
Yes, Garmin GPS devices offer the best options for outdoor navigation. While they can be more expensive than other GPS devices, they offer high-quality construction, advanced features, and reliable performance, making them a good investment for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
With options starting from only a couple of hundred dollars upwards, investing in the best Garmin GPS for hiking you can afford is totally worthwhile. You have the reassurance of big brand back-up and access to the last technology, and in extreme circumstances this could even help to save your life.
Can I use a handheld GPS for surveying while hiking?
While handheld GPS devices can be useful for navigation and tracking, they are not typically designed for surveying. If you need to perform precise surveying work, you may need to use specialized equipment.
What is the difference between a hiking GPS and a satellite GPS tracker?
A hiking GPS is designed specifically for outdoor navigation and includes features such as preloaded maps, waypoint tracking, and route planning. A satellite GPS tracker, on the other hand, is designed to transmit location data to a remote receiver and may not include all of the features you need for hiking.
Which is the Best Handheld GPS Device for You?
We hope this guide – and the best handheld hiking GPS reviews within it – have helped with your search for the best backcountry GPS for your trips into the mountains, national parks or wilderness.
Whichever of the best GPS portable units you pick, you can be confident of buying a reliable, practical product from the leading experts in the navigational field. This may help you to stay safe – as well as on-track while hiking.
Happy hiking!
Do you have any recommendations for the best handheld GPS tracker for hiking? I’d love to hear them. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
Parks Collecting is a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.