GPS Apps For Hiking

Mobile devices are becoming more common. And with the appropriate software, a number of these devices can be made to have Global Positioning System functionality. The features that may be added are as follows:

1. A digital compass.
2. Maps can be downloaded either online or via CDs.
3. Some apps have a "quickest route" feature.
4. Some feature shifting from overhead to ground level view.

And many of these applications are compatible with Apple, Symbian, or Android operating system. That means it can be used in the majority of smartphones and tablets! Does this make the dedicated GPS device obsolete?

It should be noted that dedicated GPS devices have some inherent hardware and software advantages over a GPS enabled smartphone or tablet. The former is known to be more accurate, especially in areas with minimal or even those places with no cellsites. Their design is also more rugged and this makes them more appropriate for outdoor activities, e.g. trekking, mountain climbing, hiking etc. The battery life far exceeds that of the other mobile devices.

All these point to the fact that for serious outdoor use, a dedicated GPS device may be a better alternative than a smartphone or tablet with GPS apps for hiking. But for casual use, the latter is more than sufficient.

There are several GPS apps available in the market today, and these vary slightly depending on the intended use. If you are in to hiking for instance, the following attributes may be incorporated:

1. A feature that will record the distance traversed as well as the number of calories burned.

2. Easy access to updated weather forecast that includes humidity levels and air pressure readings.

These are likely to be important to hikers and are on top of the basic GPS features mentioned above. Since the GPS function on these mobile devices are dependent on cellular coverage and this is unlikely to be strong in non-urban hiking destinations, there should be provisions for an electronic compass as well as the ability to store and view pre-loaded maps, which are independent of network coverage and signal strength. This will allow navigation even in the absence of network connection.

It should also be noted that the GPS Apps for Hiking are different from the ones used in driving. Hikers are likely to have better use of topographic maps that are included in the former. These will give him (or her) an idea regarding the surrounding terrain. These have little consequence when one is driving.

As mentioned, a GPS enabled smartphone or tablet will be sufficient for novice hikers and in areas where there is adequate cellular coverage. However, it is still advised that you bring an old-fashioned map and magnetic compass in case of emergency. And make sure that you know how to use these old-school appurtenances.