Best for hiking: Garmin GPS map 66i
Summary
In our experience the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is the best handheld option if you want to take your hiking adventures to an other level! It excels in robustness, mapping, price, communication and connectivity.
You’re all set to explore unknown trails, and of course that includes the appropriate handheld hiking GPS. But what is the best hiking GPS for you? Read on here in our list of 5 best Garmin handheld GPS devices for hikers!
There are various models, types and brands to choose from. But what is the best choice for you? In this guide, we list a few devices that are suitable for different types of users.
Since we have had many good experiences with Garmin handheld GPS devices, we will discuss some models of this brand in each category.
When it comes to reliability, ease of use and accuracy, a Garmin hiking GPS is the right choice. Garmin is also an expert and market leader in the GPS market.
That’s why my first preference for an outdoor GPS is always Garmin.
Below, we present 5 models of handheld Garmin devices, tailored to everyone’s budget and level.
READ ALSO: “Choose the outdoor GPS that’s right for you!”
The 5 best Garmin GPS devices for hiking:
Garmin GPSMAP 66 series: More customizable features for a lower budget (Our preference)
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
In our experience the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is the best option if you want to take your hiking adventures to an other level!
You don’t shy away from rough terrain and sometimes head off into the mountains for a hiking trip of several days? Of course you need a device that has the necessary features to make your adventure safe and successful.
Do you want to go hiking, hunting, climbing, geocaching, kayaking,… and are you looking for robustness? Then the Garmin GPSMAP 66 series is definitely for you!
One of the advantages of the GPSMAP 66 series is that it comes in 4 different versions. You don’t have to buy an expensive model that comes fully stacked with features but only use 50% of them. Depending what you will use it for you can choose the version that is most suitable for you.
The GPSMAP 66 series comes in 4 different versions depending on which options you take:
Garmin GPSMAP 66s (NO TopoActive map, NO inReach, NO multi-band)
Garmin GPSMAP 66st (INCLUDED TopoActive map, NO inReach, NO multi-band)
Garmin GPSMAP 66i (INCLUDED TopoActive map, INCLUDED inReach, NO multi-band)
Garmin GPSMAP 66sr (INCLUDED TopoActive map, NO inReach, INCLUDED multi-band)
You see that the type depends on whether the device has the following 3 options or not:
- A TopoActive map that lets you see the terrain a lot more accurately.
- InReach technology that allows you to send an interactive SOS message to the GEOS 24/7 rescue monitoring center and to send and receive messages via the global Iridium® satellite network (satellite subscription required).
- Multi-band technology that gives you optimum accuracy in challenging locations, including steep slopes, ravines and dense forests.
So you can choose a type from the GPSMAP 66 series according to your needs.
However, the GPSMAP 66i version is most suitable for hikers who often go off the beaten path.
Features (for all 4 types):
- Even in sunlight, the large color screen is always clearly legible
- Robust buttons make this Garmin walking GPS easier to operate in more difficult circumstances (for example, when wearing gloves).
- The maps are razor sharp and extremely detailed.
- With the help of “Active Weather” you can see what kind of weather is coming and never be surprised by increasing cloud cover again.
- The battery life of up to 16 hours in GPS mode, and 1 week in expedition mode (GPS mode with very low power consumption).
- Connect with the Garmin Explore™ website and app and open up a world of off-grid possibilities.
- Navigate any trail with ABC sensors (altimeter for elevation data, a barometer for checking weather and a 3-axis electronic compass).
- Download high-resolution photorealistic maps directly to your device without an annual subscription. Easily find trails, choose your pitch, find a parking spot, create waypoints and more.
All this beauty of course comes with a price tag that currently varies, depending on which type, between about $400 (for 66s) and $500 (for 66i).
Our choice in the list of best Garmin hiking GPS devices is the GPSMAP 66 because of its robustness, compactness and versatility.
>> The Garmin GPSMAP 66 is available online at Amazon.com
Garmin GPSMAP 67i: For hikers on big adventures!
In the realm of outdoor exploration and navigation, having a reliable GPS device can make all the difference. Garmin has introduced its latest offering – the Garmin GPSMAP 67i. It’s the successor of the above mentioned GPSMAP 66i.
Packed with features designed to cater to adventurers, hikers, geocachers, and outdoor enthusiasts, this device holds the promise of seamless navigation, communication, and safety.
The benefits of the Garmin GPSMAP 67i are substantial. It boasts a rugged and durable design that can withstand tough environmental conditions (IPX-7). Its high-resolution color display provides clear and detailed maps, ensuring you never lose your way. The device is preloaded with topographic maps, helping you navigate off the beaten path with ease. A significant advantage is the inReach® technology that allows two-way messaging via satellite communication, providing an extra layer of safety when cellular coverage is absent.
However, no product is without its drawbacks. The Garmin GPSMAP 67i’s main drawback is its price, which might be considered steep for casual outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, some users might find the user interface slightly complex to navigate initially, requiring a learning curve.
Difference between the GPSMAP 66i and GPSMAP 67i
The main difference between the Garmin GPSMAP 67i and 66i is its extended battery life. For outdoor enthusiasts, having a reliable GPS device with a long-lasting battery is a game-changer. The GPSMAP 67i delivers up to an impressive 840 hours of battery life in expedition mode! Compared to 200 hours on the 66i this is a significant upgrade on battery life.
This extended battery life ensures that the device remains operational even during extended trips into the wilderness, where access to power sources might be limited.
The extended battery life not only enhances convenience but also contributes to safety. Whether you’re on a multi-day hike, camping in a remote location, or embarking on a long backcountry expedition, the knowledge that your GPS device won’t run out of power when you need it most is invaluable. This feature sets the GPSMAP 67i apart and solidifies its position as a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.
Another extra that comes with the 67i is the two-way messaging via InReach technology that allows you to send and receive messages with your loved ones at home.
Features:
- The longest battery life with 840 hours in expedition mode
- Two-way messaging
- All the above mentioned for the 66 series
Price around $600.
>> The GPSMAP 67i is available on Amazon
Garmin eTrex 23x and 33x: The solid entry-level model!
Are you looking for not too many bells and whistles but just a solid device that does what it should do? Then the Garmin eTrex 23x or 33x is the device for you!
The eTrex series is the entry-level series of the Garmin range, but that doesn’t make them any less qualitative! This device is more than suitable for the sporty hiker.
The eTrex series stands out especially for its ease of use.
Features
- The devices are equipped with pre-installed TopoActive maps for Europe, with navigable roads and trails for hiking (or biking). You get information about your surroundings including waterways, natural features, buildings, international borders and more. You can also find thousands of points of interest, such as stores, restaurants, universities, parking lots and accommodations.
- The devices support both GPS and GLONASS satellite reception. This allows you to connect and find your way even in environments where there is less coverage.
- The device runs on 2 replaceable AA batteries and lasts up to 25 hours in GPS mode.
- You have 8 GB internal memory for downloading maps plus an extra microSD card slot.
- The difference between the eTrex 22x and eTrex 32x? The eTrex 32x additionally features a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, making it easier to determine your exact position.
The price varies depending on the type between $200 for the 22x and $250 for the 32x.
If you are a bit lower on the budget, Garmin also has the eTrex 10 in the range. This is only suitable for beginning hikers and for geocaching. The eTrex 10 is rather “basic” in terms of functionality and quality.
That is why I would personally rather go for the upgrade and buy the eTrex 22x if you have doubts. It offers more value for money, such as the TopoActive map for Europe.
>> Garmin eTrex 22x is available online at Amazon.com
>> Garmin eTrex 32x available online at Amazon.com
Garmin Montana 700 series: On adventure with a bigger (touch screen) screen!
Is compactness not necessarily a must and would you like a little more comfort to use your maps on your adventures? Then this big boy handheld gps might be for you!
This outdoor GPS definitely belongs in our list of best hiking GPS Garmin devices. Yet, it’s created for more than just hiking adventures.
Think for example of navigating remote trails with a quad or cross bike. They can also be used on adventures with other vehicles such as boats, jeeps, motorhomes, etc..
For the hiking adventurer looking for a lighter and more compact unit, the Montana 700 is not the right choice. Compared to the GPSMAP 66 series, the Montana 700 weighs a lot more (8.5oz vs. 14.5oz respectively).
In terms of functionality, there are not that many things the GPSMAP 66 can’t do compared to the Montana 700.
Also within this series you have the choice between 3 different types depending on a few options:
Garmin Montana 700 (NO inReach; NO camera)
Garmin Montana 700i (NO inReach; NO camera)
Garmin Montana 750i (INCLUDED inReach; INCLUDED camera)
These are the additional features for the Montana 700 series:
- Large touchscreen
- Battery capacity is a bit better (18 hours in GPS mode)
- Convenient for hunters and trainers: sync compatible Astro® or Alpha® handhelds (sold separately) to track sporting dogs in the field.
- Various portable mounts are sold separately so you can use the unit for on/in ATVs, boats, cars, motorcycles, RVs or other vehicles.
- If you choose the 750i, you can take advantage of a built-in camera.
Prices for the Montana 700 series range from $600 – $800 depending on the model.
>> The Garmin Montana 700 series is online available at Amazon.com
Garmin inReach Explorer+: For the true adventurer who knows no boundaries!
You are a frontiersman who seeks out inhospitable areas. For that, you not only need good navigation but also a communication system that won’t let you down in the most desolate places when you need it.
The Garmin inReach Explorer+ combines these two features in one device.
It is a very compact and light device (only 7.5oz) yet strong, durable, shock resistant and water resistant to IPX7.
Features:
- Trigger an interactive SOS message to the 24/7 rescue monitoring center
- Track and share your location with friends and family.
- You have full GPS navigation support with the Explorer+.
- You can pair with compatible mobile devices to access downloadable maps, color aerial photos, etc.
- Built-in digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer.
- Each inReach has free access to a portal in the cloud. This allows you to plan your trips with routes and via points but also to create preset messages, download additional TOPO maps, link your social media accounts, etc.
- The InReach weather forecasting service sends detailed updates directly to your InReach device.
Prices for the Inreach Explorer+ range around $500
>> The Garmin inReach Explorer+ is online available on Amazon.com
This was our list of best Garmin hiking GPS devices. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to leave a message below this article.
