Watches and in particular, watches with features particularly for hiking have become an indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of functionality, durability, and connectivity. For hikers, a good smartwatch can serve as a GPS navigator, fitness tracker, weather monitor, and emergency beacon, all while keeping you connected to the world.
But not all smartwatches are created equal—especially when it comes to withstanding the rigors of hiking and outdoor use.
Quick look into The top 4:
1. Best All Around – Garmin Fenix 7X
2. Best for serious endurance hikers – Garmin Epix Gen 2
3. Best for long hikes, explorers and budget – Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
4. Best for Android smartwatch users – TicWatch Pro 5
In this article, we’ll explore the key features to look for in a hiking watch, followed by detailed reviews of the top 9 hiking watches with GPS that have been tested in real-world conditions. Each watch has been evaluated based on its performance, durability, battery life, and feature set, ensuring that our recommendations are both practical and reliable.
Features to Look Out for
Before diving into the best hiking watches, it’s important to understand what makes them suitable for hiking and outdoor use. The right watch can be a critical tool for navigation, weather tracking, and safety in remote areas where relying on a smartphone may not be practical and waste of resources.
- GPS Signal Strength in Remote Areas
While most modern smartwatches advertise GPS capabilities but not all GPS systems are created equal. Look for a hiking watch with dual-band GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo support, as these technologies significantly improve accuracy in remote or challenging environments, such as dense forests or canyons.
How do they differ you may ask? Put simply, they are all Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) which is an umbrella term that covers all global satellite positioning systems. They are created by different countries or territories. I’ve broken it down below:
GPS vs GLONASS vs Galileo
| Satellite System | Accuracy | Notes |
|---|
| GPS | 3–5 meters | Most widely used navigation system globally. Developed by the U.S. DoD. |
| GLONASS | 4–7 meters | Russian alternative to GPS. Performs better in northern latitudes. |
| Galileo | 1–3 meters | More accurate than GPS for civilian use. Fully independent from U.S. and Russian systems. |
Be aware that even the best GPS systems can struggle in areas with heavy tree cover or near tall cliffs, so it’s always a good idea to bring a backup compass or paper map as a failsafe.
- Battery Life
Many smartwatches advertise impressive battery life, but these estimates often assume limited use of features like GPS, heart rate monitoring, and music playback. Make sure to review real-world testing and user feedback to get a clearer picture of how long the battery will last with your specific usage habits.
Here’s a table of the battery life for each of the 9 best watches for hiking on this list:
| Watch Model | Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Battery Life (GPS Mode) |
|---|
| Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar | Up to 37 days (with solar) | Up to 122 hours (with solar) |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Up to 36 hours | Up to 72 hours (low-power mode) |
| Suunto 9 Peak Pro | Up to 21 days | Up to 300 hours (power-saving mode) |
| COROS PACE 3 | Up to 24 days | Up to 38 hours |
| Garmin Epix Gen 2 | Up to 16 days | Up to 42 hours |
| Garmin Instinct 2 Solar | Unlimited (with solar) | Up to 48 hours |
| Garmin Forerunner 965 | Up to 23 days | Up to 31 hours |
| Fitbit Sense 2 | Up to 6 days | Not specified |
If you plan to use your GPS smartwatch continuously during multi-day hikes, look for watches with power-saving modes or solar charging to ensure you don’t run out of juice mid-adventure.
- Water Resistance Ratings: What They Really Mean
While water resistance ratings like IP68 or ISO 22810 are important, they don’t always mean the watch is suitable for all water-based activities. For example: IP68 typically means the watch can withstand being submerged in water up to a certain depth, but it may not be designed for swimming or diving. ISO 22810 certification is specifically designed for diving and ensures the watch can handle the pressure of deep water.
Here’s a table of the water resistance for each of the 9 best watches for hiking on this list:
| Watch Model | Water Resistance Rating |
|---|
| Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar | 10 ATM (100 meters) |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | 10 ATM (100 meters) |
| Suunto 9 Peak Pro | 10 ATM (100 meters) |
| COROS PACE 3 | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
| Garmin Epix Gen 2 | 10 ATM (100 meters) |
| Garmin Instinct 2 Solar | 10 ATM (100 meters) |
| Garmin Forerunner 965 | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
| Fitbit Sense 2 | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
| Ticwatch Pro 5 | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
If you plan to use your smartwatch for swimming, kayaking, or diving, double-check the specific water resistance rating and what it covers.
- App Ecosystem and Compatibility
The quality and availability of third-party apps can make or break a smartwatch for outdoor use. Look for devices with support for mapping apps, weather tracking, and outdoor-specific features.
If you’re deeply integrated into a specific ecosystem (e.g., Apple or Google), consider whether the watch will integrate seamlessly with your other devices.
- Screen Durability and Visibility
Scratches and cracked screens are a common issue for outdoor enthusiasts. Look for watches with scratch-resistant glass (e.g., Gorilla Glass or sapphire crystal) and high-brightness displays for readability in direct sunlight.
If you plan to wear gloves during colder months, consider a watch with a touchscreen that works well with gloves or physical buttons for easier navigation.
- Emergency Features: What’s Included and What’s Not
Many smartwatches advertise emergency SOS features, but some require a cellular connection or satellite connectivity to work. Make sure you understand the limitations of these features and whether they’ll be available in remote areas.
If you plan to venture into areas with no cell service, consider a watch with satellite connectivity or a standalone emergency beacon as a backup.
- Weight and Comfort
While durability is important, an overly heavy or bulky watch can be uncomfortable during long hikes. Look for lightweight designs and adjustable bands that can accommodate wrists of all sizes.
If you plan to wear the watch during trail running or other high-intensity activities, consider a model with a secure fit and breathable materials to prevent chafing.
The 9 Best Hiking Watches with GPS:
1. Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar
4.8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $619.99
The Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire is regarded as one of the best hiking watches for outdoor adventures. It is designed specifically for adventurers combining cutting-edge technology with amazing durability.
Pros
✅Solar Charging: The solar charging feature extends battery life significantly, making it ideal for multi-day hikes.
✅Advanced GPS: Supports multi-band GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for pinpoint accuracy, even in dense forests or canyons.
✅Rugged Design: Built with premium materials, including a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal lens and a titanium bezel.
✅Comprehensive Health Tracking: Includes heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, and sleep tracking.
✅Emergency Features: Offers SOS alerts and incident detection, which can be lifesavers in remote areas.
Cons
❌Price: The Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar is one of the most expensive smartwatches available.
❌Steep Learning Curve: With so many features, it can take time to get familiar with the interface.
Verdict
Probably the best choice for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its combination of solar charging, advanced GPS, and emergency features makes it a reliable companion for any adventure which is why it’s on top of the list.
But if you’re looking for something with an even higher price point and with a flashlight? You can take a look at the Garmin Fenix 8 which can be yours at a cool $1199.99.
2. Apple Watch Ultra 2
4.6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $799.00
Being Apple’s first foray into the outdoor smartwatch market, it’s proven to be a strong contender. Designed for extreme conditions, it offers a perfect blend of style and functionality too.
Pros
✅Durability: Features a titanium case and a sapphire crystal display, making it highly resistant to scratches and impacts.
✅Advanced GPS: Includes dual-frequency GPS for improved accuracy in challenging environments.
✅Emergency SOS: Supports emergency alerts via satellite connectivity with a cellular plan.
(Apple Watch as a Medical Alert System 2025)
✅Water Resistance: Rated for scuba diving up to 40 meters, making it a great choice for water-based activities.
✅Ecosystem: Seamless integration with other Apple devices and a wide range of third-party apps.
Cons
❌Battery Life: While improved over previous models, the Apple Watch Ultra still struggles with multi-day use without recharging.
❌No Solar Charging: Unlike some competitors, the Ultra doesn’t offer solar charging.
Verdict
The perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts who are already part of the Apple ecosystem. While it may not have solar charging, its durability, water resistance, and emergency features make it a solid option.
3. Suunto 9 Peak Pro (all black version)
4.2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: $249.00
A rugged smartwatch designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s known for its long battery life and advanced navigation features.
Pros
✅Battery Life: Offers up to 300 hours of GPS tracking in power-saving mode, making it ideal for long hikes.
✅Water Resistance: Rated for diving up to 100 meters, it’s perfect for water sports.
✅Compass and Navigation: Includes a built-in compass and supports GLONASS and Galileo for accurate navigation.
✅Durability: Built with a titanium bezel and scratch-resistant glass for added toughness.
Cons
❌App Ecosystem: The Suunto app ecosystem is less developed compared to Garmin or Apple.
❌No Solar Charging: While battery life is excellent, the lack of solar charging may be a drawback for some users.
Verdict
A reliable choice for hikers who prioritize battery life and water resistance. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of its competitors, it excels in the areas that matter most for outdoor use at a decent price range.
4. COROS PACE 3
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $229.00
The Coros Pace 3 is a lightweight multisport GPS watch designed for hikers, triathletes, and endurance runners. It balances long battery life, accurate GPS tracking, and essential training features at an affordable price.
Pros
✅ Impressive Battery Life – Up to 38 hours in GPS mode and 24 days in regular use, making it a solid choice for long workouts.
✅ Lightweight & Comfortable – Weighing only 30g with the nylon band, it’s barely noticeable on your wrist.
✅ Accurate GPS Tracking – Features next-gen dual-frequency GPS for improved precision in urban and mountainous areas.
✅ Sleep & HR Monitoring – Includes heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and SpO2 monitoring for well-rounded fitness insights.
Cons
❌ Limited Smartwatch Features – No third-party apps, payments, or advanced smartwatch functionality like Garmin or Apple.
❌ No Music Storage – While it supports music controls, it doesn’t store music for offline playback.
Verdict
A fantastic option for athletes who prioritize performance, battery life, and GPS accuracy over smartwatch extras. If you need a lightweight, budget-friendly GPS watch with great training tools, this one delivers.
5. Garmin Epix Gen 2
4.7 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $419.99
A high-end smartwatch that combines the best features of the Fenix series with a vibrant AMOLED display.
Pros
✅AMOLED Display: The high-resolution touchscreen display is vibrant and easy to read, even in direct sunlight.
✅Advanced GPS: Supports multi-band GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for accurate navigation.
✅Health Tracking: Includes advanced health monitoring features like blood oxygen levels and sleep tracking.
✅Emergency Features: Offers SOS alerts and incident detection for added safety.
Cons
❌Battery Life: While improved, the Epix Gen 2 still struggles with multi-day use without recharging.
❌Expensive: The high price point may be a turn off for some users.
Verdict
It’s a good choice for hikers who want a high-resolution display without sacrificing performance. While it may not have the same battery life as the Fenix 7X Pro Solar, it’s a great option for those who value a premium user experience or use it for daily life and hike once in a while.
6. Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
4.7 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $237.95
For its smaller size (40mm) – Instinct 2S Solar
For its cheaper base model – Instinct Solar
The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is a tough, adventure-ready smartwatch built for outdoor enthusiasts who need durability, reliable GPS, and solar charging for extended use in the wild.
Pros
✅ Solar Charging for Unlimited Battery Life – With enough sunlight, the watch never needs charging in smartwatch mode.
✅ Military-Grade Durability – Built to MIL-STD-810 standards, with a fiber-reinforced polymer case and scratch-resistant display.
✅ Advanced GPS & Navigation – Supports GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for precise tracking in remote areas.
✅ Comprehensive Health & Fitness Tracking – Includes heart rate monitoring, VO2 max, sleep tracking, stress tracking, and Pulse Ox.
Cons
❌ No Music Storage – While it offers music controls, you can’t store music for offline playback.
❌ Basic Monochrome Display – Lacks the vibrant AMOLED screen found in newer models.
Verdict
Excellent choice for hikers, trail runners, and adventurers who want a rugged, GPS-equipped watch with virtually unlimited battery life. If you spend a lot of time outdoors and want to charge less, this is one of the best options available after the Garmin Fenix series. It is also the best selling watch on Amazon for hiking.
7. Garmin Forerunner® 965
4.6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $570.49
A high-performance GPS smartwatch designed for runners, triathletes, and endurance hikers who want advanced training metrics, a vibrant display, and long battery life.
Pros
✅ Brilliant AMOLED Display – Features a 1.4″ full-color touchscreen for crisp, easy-to-read data.
✅ Advanced Training & Recovery Insights – Includes VO2 max, training load, real-time stamina, and recovery recommendations.
✅ Accurate Multi-Band GPS – Supports GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for precise tracking, even in challenging environments.
✅ Long Battery Life – Up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode.
Cons
❌ No Solar Charging – Unlike some Garmin models, it relies solely on battery power.
❌ Premium Price – Higher cost compared to mid-range models, but packed with features.
Verdict
An elite-level GPS smartwatch built for serious runners and endurance athletes who need detailed training metrics, long battery life, and a stunning AMOLED display. If performance tracking is your priority, this is one of the best options available.
8. Fitbit Sense 2
4.0 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: $229.95
The Fitbit Sense 2 is a feature-rich smartwatch that offers a great balance of health tracking and outdoor functionality.
Pros
✅Health Tracking: Includes advanced health monitoring features like blood oxygen levels, skin temperature, and sleep tracking.
✅Water Resistance: Rated for swimming and water-based activities up to 50 meters.
✅Compass and Navigation: Includes a built-in compass for accurate navigation.
✅App Ecosystem: Supports a wide range of third-party apps, including many outdoor-specific options.
Cons
❌Battery Life: While improved, the Sense 2 still struggles with multi-day use without recharging.
❌No Solar Charging: Unlike some competitors, the Sense 2 doesn’t offer solar charging.
Verdict
A strong contender for hikers who prioritize health tracking and water resistance. While it may lack some of the advanced features of its competitors, it offers great value for its price point.
9. Ticwatch Pro 5
4.6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Price: $164.50
The TicWatch Pro 5 is a Wear OS-powered smartwatch designed for those who want strong performance, long battery life, and fitness tracking in a sleek design.
Pros
✅ Dual-Layer Display for Extended Battery Life – Combines an ultra-low-power LCD with an AMOLED screen for up to 80 hours of battery life.
✅ Smooth Performance – Powered by the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 for faster navigation and app loading.
✅ Wear OS & Google Integration – Supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Pay, and third-party apps.
✅ Comprehensive Health Tracking – Includes heart rate, SpO2, sleep tracking, and stress monitoring.
Cons
❌ No iOS Support – Currently only compatible with Android devices.
❌ Limited Third-Party App Optimization – Some apps are still not fully optimized for Wear OS.
Verdict
A powerful smartwatch with excellent battery life, making it a great choice for Android users who want Wear OS features, fitness tracking, and smooth performance without frequent charging.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best hiking watch with GPS for your outdoor use, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. If you’re looking for a premium option with solar charging and advanced GPS, the Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar is the way to go.
For those already in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch Ultra offers a seamless experience with excellent durability and emergency features. And for budget-conscious hikers, the TicWatch Pro 4G provides great value without compromising on essential features.
No matter which watches you choose, make sure it’s one that can keep up with your adventures and provide the reliability you need in the great outdoors.
I’d also recommend that you check on the 50 Best Hiking and Camping Gears for your next hiking adventure so that you got all your grounds covered.