Best Apps for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Whether you’re planning a weekend hike, mapping a multi-day climb, or finding a last-minute campsite, the right app can make all the difference. From GPS tools to offline maps and stargazing guides, outdoor apps bring tech and adventure together—especially when you’re deep in nature without a signal.
Here are the best apps for hikers, campers, and climbers in 2025.
Best Hiking & Trail Navigation Apps
1. AllTrails
The most popular trail app for a reason. AllTrails offers GPS tracking, detailed trail maps, elevation gain, reviews, and difficulty levels.
Free & Pro versions available
Best for: Day hikes, exploring new trails, finding family-friendly routes.
2. Gaia GPS
Trusted by backpackers and backcountry explorers. Gaia lets you download detailed topographic maps, track your route, and layer weather and land-use data.
Best for: Off-grid hikes, backcountry navigation, snowshoeing, and hunting.
3. FarOut (formerly Guthook Guides)
Originally built for thru-hikers, FarOut provides detailed trail guides for long-distance trails like the PCT, AT, and more.
Best for: Long hikes, national scenic trails, and community-sourced info on water and campsites.
Camping & Outdoor Trip Planning Apps
4. The Dyrt
Search campsites by location, filter by type (RV, tent, free), and read user reviews. Paid version allows offline access and map downloads.
Best for: Road trips, dispersed camping, and finding last-minute spots.
5. iOverlander
A free app used globally by overlanders and vanlifers. Lists free campsites, water fill-up spots, and service locations.
Best for: Boondocking, off-grid camping, and international road travel.
6. Recreation.gov
Book campsites, permits, and tours in U.S. national parks and forests. Essential for planning visits to popular public lands.
Best for: Reserving federal campsites and permits.
Climbing-Specific Tools
7. Mountain Project
Owned by REI, this app includes route beta, grades, photos, and GPS pins for climbing areas worldwide.
Best for: Bouldering, trad, and sport climbing.
8. MyClimb
Track your climbing sessions, log gym or outdoor climbs, and connect with friends or partners.
Best for: Climbing logs and training tracking.
9. Rakkup
A digital climbing guidebook that offers turn-by-turn navigation to crags and climbs. Great for locations without cell service.
Best for: Replacing printed guidebooks in remote areas.
Offline Maps, Weather & Survival
10. Avenza Maps
Lets you download geospatial PDF maps (like USFS and USGS maps) and use GPS location even without signal.
Best for: Land use boundaries, fire maps, and offline topographic data.
11. Windy
Advanced weather forecasts including wind speed, radar, snow accumulation, and satellite views.
Best for: High-elevation treks, climbing trips, or anything weather-sensitive.
12. Cairn
Plan hikes, download maps, and share your route with emergency contacts. Shows where others have reported cell coverage.
Best for: Solo hikers and safety-conscious adventurers.
Bonus Apps for Outdoor Enjoyment
13. Sky Guide / SkyView
Point your phone at the sky to identify stars, planets, and constellations—even offline.
Best for: Stargazing at camp or on night hikes.
14. Seek by iNaturalist
Take a photo of a plant, animal, or insect and instantly ID it with scientific info.
Best for: Nature lovers, kids, and learning about your environment.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor apps won’t replace real-world skills, but they can enhance your safety, planning, and enjoyment—especially when exploring unfamiliar terrain. Always keep backups (like paper maps and written plans), but when used wisely, these apps can be a powerful part of your gear.
Tip: Download maps and key info before you head out. Most of these apps allow offline access with a little planning.