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Hiking apps can not only help you get closer to nature, but they can also increase your knowledge and safety when hiking in the mountains, especially GPS hiking apps.
As an avid hiker, I'll be the first to admit that one of the things I love most about hiking in the German Alps is getting away from technology. That's why I don't recommend being glued to your phone, tracking every step.
Instead, put your phone away Bring it out occasionally when there's a peak you want to identify, know whether a certain berry is safe to eat, or need to check your GPS hiking app to see which way to go at a crossroads.
By using sparingly, hiking apps can enhance rather than detract from your hike.
Below you'll see what I think are the best hiking apps. I've only included a few from different categories. You don't need to know all the GPS hiking apps out there, just the best ones :).
The Best GPS Hiking Apps
Gaia GPS Hiking App
Gaia GPS is my favourite GPS hiking app because of its detailed topographic and satellite maps allowing you to easily assess the steepness of the next part of your route.
While you can use it to find hiking trails, I usually import GPS tracks into the app, then use them to follow my intended hiking route.
Gaia GPS App is best for:
GPS. If you only use one GPS hiking App, use this one.
If you're just looking to import GPS tracks and track your position, the free version works great.
Price: Free, or $19.99 a year for the Basic membership which provides you with more maps, ability to download maps for offline use and print them or $39.99 for the Premium membership which offers more features.
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Best Bird Identification App
Audubon Bird Guide App
One of the ways to really immerse yourself in nature while hiking is to be able to identify birds. They are providing you with a free symphony while hiking after all.
And on most hikes you'll usually hear The Audubon Bird Guide App helps you to identify over 800 bird species in North America, including their habitat and behaviou.
While not a specific hiking app, the Audubon Bird Guide App can really enhance your hike and you may even find yourself becoming immersed in bird identification. You'll never be able say that you didn't see any wildlife while hiking again.
The Audubon Bird Guide App is best for:
identifying birds in Canada and the U.S. If you're hiking elsewhere, find a similar app for your location.
Cost: Free
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Best Tree Identification App
PlantSnap App
You may or may not see wildlife while hiking, but you're almost certain to see plants, trees, and maybe even wildflowers and mushrooms.
PlantSnap uses visual recognition software and can recognize 90% of all plant and tree species on the planet with over 600,000 species in their database. All you need to do is take a photograph of the leaf.
It's a cool way to learn more about flora while hiking - and which berries and mushrooms are safe to eat!
PlantSnap is best for:
identifying flora and helping you see your hike with fresh eyes.
Cost: Free and premium versions available.
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5 Tips When Using Hiking Apps:
- Download the recommended hiking apps when connected to a power source and wifi. You don't want to waste data and risk running out (if you're on a limited plan) of data while hiking,
- Check in advance if the hiking apps require wifi or can be used offline. It depends on the individual app. Note, the Gaia GPS app doesn't require wifi for the GPS to work, but you'll want to upload your GPS tracks while you still have wifi.
- Bring an external charger. If you're using a GPS hiking app, they can quickly wear down your battery. You don't want your phone to die halfway through a hike.
- Put your phone in Airplane mode and dim the brightness to help save your battery.
- If you're using a hiking app for route info, bring a map or a paper copy as a backup. You could drop your phone and it won't work anymore, or the battery could die. It's important to have a backup plan.