10 Best Gps Hiking Watches 2025 in the United States

The Amazfit T-Rex 3 Military Smart Watch is a robust option for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. It excels in durability, with its 316L stainless steel bezel, and can withstand extreme temperatures from -22°F to 158°F. Its water resistance makes it suitable for freediving up to 147 feet, which is quite impressive. The ultra-bright AMOLED display ensures visibility in all lighting conditions, with special modes like Night and Glove Mode enhancing usability in low light or while wearing gloves.

For navigation, this watch offers precise turn-by-turn directions and supports six satellite systems for accurate GPS positioning. The inclusion of free global maps and dual-band GPS caters well to hikers and adventurers. The battery life is another strong point, lasting over three weeks with typical use or up to 180 hours in GPS mode, making it reliable for extended trips.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 170+ sports modes and AI-generated training plans that provide real-time updates and guidance. The watch also includes essential sensors like an altimeter, barometer, and compass (ABC), which are crucial for outdoor activities. However, there are a few drawbacks. While the watch boasts comprehensive features, the interface may require some time to get used to, especially for those not familiar with the Zepp OS. Additionally, despite its many features, it may not offer the same level of heart rate monitoring accuracy as some specialized fitness trackers. The connectivity options are solid with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, but the absence of LTE might be a limitation for some users.

The Garmin Forerunner 255 is a well-rounded GPS smartwatch that caters to both hikers and runners. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, offering up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode, making it reliable for extended outdoor adventures. The always-on display is bright and clear, which is crucial when navigating in sunlight. Its suite of fitness and health tracking tools, such as heart rate variability and sleep monitoring, can help users keep tabs on their overall wellness and training status.

Navigation features are solid, but they might not be as advanced as dedicated hiking watches. The watch includes built-in sports apps and allows for personalized training plans, which can be beneficial for users looking to improve their running or hiking performance. The morning report feature is a nice touch, summarizing key metrics to set you up for the day.

On the downside, while it offers great functionality for fitness enthusiasts, the Forerunner 255 may be less appealing for casual users who don’t need extensive health insights or training plans. Additionally, some advanced features, such as Running Dynamics Pods, require separate purchases, which could add to overall costs. The device is also primarily focused on running, so serious hikers may miss some navigation-specific features that other dedicated hiking watches offer. In terms of connectivity, it supports Bluetooth and is compatible with Garmin's smartphone app, allowing for easy data syncing and workout customization. The user interface is designed to be user-friendly, making it relatively easy to navigate through various features. This smartwatch is particularly suited for those who seek a blend of fitness tracking and reliable GPS navigation in a sleek, lightweight design.

The Garmin 010-02540-34 Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar is a feature-packed GPS hiking watch designed for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of its standout features is the solar charging capability, which extends battery life significantly. In smartwatch mode, it can last up to 22 days with sufficient sunlight, and up to 73 hours in GPS mode with continuous solar exposure, making it ideal for long outdoor trips.

The screen is durable, with a scratch-resistant Power Sapphire lens and an always-on 1.3” display that is easily readable in various lighting conditions. The GPS accuracy is enhanced with multi-band GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, providing reliable navigation even in challenging environments. Equipped with ABC sensors (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass), it offers comprehensive tracking and navigation capabilities. The built-in maps and Wi-Fi connectivity for map downloads ensure you're well-prepared for any terrain.

Health and wellness features such as wrist-based heart rate monitoring, Pulse Ox, sleep tracking, and stress monitoring add to its value, though it should be noted these are not medical-grade devices. The 30+ built-in sports apps and advanced performance metrics cater to a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to skiing and surfing. Additionally, it supports smart notifications, music storage, and contactless payments, making it a versatile companion beyond hiking. At 2.56 ounces, it's relatively lightweight for its rugged build. This Garmin watch is a robust and reliable choice for serious hikers and outdoor adventurers, offering extensive features and excellent battery life.