GPS for hikers
When selecting a GPS for hiking, two key criteria come to mind. It’s likely that a hiker will want a unit that’s good for navigation, and will not want to have to hold it out at arm’s length for the entire hike, which means that…
Reception is important for hikers
I recommend a unit that will get great satellite reception, so I’m going to limit my recommendations to models with a high sensitivity chipset, such as the SiRFstar III or MediaTek chipset. With these receivers, you can stick them in your pocket, or a mesh pocket on a day pack, and you are still likely to have adequate reception. Some of this is dependent upon how the satellite constellation is configured for your location on any given day, but overall, I think you’ll be happy with the performance of these units.
Navigation and maps
The other important thing is getting a receiver that is set up to navigate. Not all GPS receivers can accommodate topo maps. If you’re content with a receiver that won’t let you add detailed maps, check out the Garmin eTrex H. Otherwise, stick with the ones below.
Be aware though — none of these units come with any kind of detailed map. Fortunately, there are free topo maps for most states for Garmin units. One other note before we get into the recommendations — you may also find it helpful to check out my Garmin handheld GPS comparison chart.
Budget GPS for hiking
The eTrex Venture HC (pictured) has a sunlight-readable color screen, and the ability to accept detailed topo maps. The retail price is $200, but I typically see the Venture HC discounted to the $115 to $130 range.
Mid-range GPS for hiking
I’m going to recommend the Garmin eTrex Legend HCx as a mid-range unit. Stepping up to the Legend HCx you get expandable map memory, plus it supports turn-by-turn routing, making it useful for city navigation in your car as well. You’ll need a mount, City Navigator software, and preferably a power cord, but then you’re set up for turn-by-turn routing. The retail price is $269.99, but as of this posting the Legend HCx can be found for around $180.
The top of the line GPS for hikers
There are several units to consider here; each has a barometric altimeter and tri-axial electronic compass:
One of the newest Garmins, the Oregon 550t, combines a high resolution, touch screen interface with pre-loaded topo maps of the entire U.S. It also has a built-in 3.2 MP geotagging camera. As a new unit, the price is still right around the MSRP of $599.99. I have a review unit in hand and should have a review posted by the end of November. In the meantime, you can read my hands on Oregon 400t review for a closer look at the Oregon series.
Another recent introduction, the Delorme PN-40 can accommodate aerial imagery and real USGS topos. It has a smaller screen than the Oregon (albeit more legible in most daylight conditions) and comes with powerful but complex software. At the time of this posting, it was available for around $300.
Finally, the brand new Garmin Dakota 20 is a smaller version of the Oregon. Once its been on the market for awhile, it should start to show up at a discounted and very attractive price.
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