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10 Best Garmin Hiking Watches 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black
The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a running smartwatch that stands out with its built-in GPS, vibrant AMOLED display, and various health tracking features, making it a great companion for both hikers and runners. Its GPS accuracy is typically reliable, allowing users to track their pace and distance effectively. Battery life is commendable, offering up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours when using GPS, which is suitable for long hikes or extended outdoor adventures.
Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,114
Battery Life
Navigation Features
Health and Fitness Tracking
Most important from
870 reviews
#2
Garmin Instinct® 3 45mm, Solar Charged Display, Rugged Outdoor GPS Smartwatch, Metal-Reinforced Bezel, Built-in Flashlight, Black
The Garmin Instinct® 3 is a rugged outdoor GPS smartwatch designed to meet the demands of hiking enthusiasts. One of its standout features is the solar charging lens, which can provide unlimited battery life under optimal sunlight conditions, making it highly suitable for extended outdoor adventures. The device's durability is impressive, featuring a supertough 45mm fiber-reinforced polymer case and metal-reinforced bezel, along with a 10 ATM water rating and compliance with MIL-STD-810 for thermal and shock resistance. This ensures it can withstand harsh environments and unpredictable weather conditions while hiking.
#3
Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Ivory
The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a versatile health and fitness GPS smartwatch designed to cater to a wide range of physical activities, including hiking. One of its standout features is the vibrant AMOLED display, which ensures clear visibility. This watch offers an impressive battery life of up to 11 days, which is beneficial for extended hiking trips. The navigation features include built-in GPS, enabling accurate tracking of hiking trails and routes.
Rating
9.4
Battery Life
Health and Fitness Tracking
User Interface and Ease of Use
Most important from
5636 reviews
Top 10 Best Garmin Hiking Watches 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
9.8 score
Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black
Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black
GPS Accuracy: typically reliable
Battery Life: up to 11 days, 19 hours GPS
Durability: lightweight design
Navigation Features: 25+ built-in activity profiles
Health and Fitness Tracking: various health tracking features
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: touchscreen and button controls
Chosen by 1114 this week
Garmin Instinct® 3 45mm, Solar Charged Display, Rugged Outdoor GPS Smartwatch, Metal-Reinforced Bezel, Built-in Flashlight, Black
Garmin Instinct® 3 45mm, Solar Charged Display, Rugged Outdoor GPS Smartwatch, Metal-Reinforced Bezel, Built-in Flashlight, Black
GPS Accuracy: multi-band GPS with SatIQ
Battery Life: unlimited under optimal sunlight
Durability: supertough 45mm case, 10 ATM rating
Navigation Features: 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, multi-band GPS
Health and Fitness Tracking: heart rate, sleep monitoring, Pulse Ox
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
User Interface: Garmin OS
Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Ivory
Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Ivory
GPS Accuracy: Built-in GPS
Battery Life: up to 11 days
Navigation Features: built-in GPS
Health and Fitness Tracking: energy, sleep, heart rate, stress
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: user-friendly, touchscreen, Android, iOS
Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02641-20
Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02641-20
GPS Accuracy: Excellent
Battery Life: 14 days smartwatch, 30 hours GPS
Durability: Withstand various conditions
Navigation Features: Adaptive plans, personalized workouts, predictions
Health and Fitness Tracking: Sleep, heart rate, body energy monitoring
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: User-friendly, morning reports, workout suggestions
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar - Tactical Edition, Rugged GPS Smartwatch, Built-in Flashlight, Ballistics Calculator, Solar Charging Capability, Coyote Tan
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar - Tactical Edition, Rugged GPS Smartwatch, Built-in Flashlight, Ballistics Calculator, Solar Charging Capability, Coyote Tan
GPS Accuracy: multi-band GPS
Battery Life: infinite battery life with sunlight
Durability: thermal, shock, water resistance
Navigation Features: multi-band GPS, 3-axis compass, altimeter
Health and Fitness Tracking: heart rate, sleep, respiration, Pulse Ox
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: complex for beginners
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Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition, 51mm, High Performance Smartwatch, Advanced Training Technology, Built-in Flashlight, Black
Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition, 51mm, High Performance Smartwatch, Advanced Training Technology, Built-in Flashlight, Black
GPS Accuracy: Multi-band reception technology
Battery Life: 384 hours
Durability: Scratch-resistant sapphire lens, titanium bezel
Health and Fitness Tracking: Heart rate, sleep, hill score, endurance
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: Large 1.4” always-on AMOLED display
Garmin 010-02293-10 Instinct Solar, Rugged Outdoor Smartwatch with Solar Charging Capabilities, Built-in Sports Apps and Health Monitoring, Graphite
Garmin 010-02293-10 Instinct Solar, Rugged Outdoor Smartwatch with Solar Charging Capabilities, Built-in Sports Apps and Health Monitoring, Graphite
GPS Accuracy: GPS, Glonass, Galileo
Battery Life: Extended with solar charging
Durability: Meets U.S. military standards
Navigation Features: 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter
Health and Fitness Tracking: Heart rate, Pulse Ox, stress tracking
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface: Buttons
Garmin 010-02582-10 epix Gen 2, Premium active smartwatch, Health and wellness features, touchscreen AMOLED display, adventure watch with advanced features, black titanium
Garmin 010-02582-10 epix Gen 2, Premium active smartwatch, Health and wellness features, touchscreen AMOLED display, adventure watch with advanced features, black titanium
GPS Accuracy: Multi-band GNSS
Battery Life: 16 days smartwatch, 42 hours GPS
Durability: Sapphire display, titanium bezel
Navigation Features: TopoActive, CourseView, SkiView maps
Health and Fitness Tracking: Heart rate, pulse oxygen, stress
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface: Intuitive
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Buying Guide for the Best Garmin Hiking Watches
Choosing the right Garmin hiking watch can significantly enhance your outdoor adventures. These watches are designed to provide essential information and features that can help you navigate, track your progress, and stay safe while hiking. To make the best choice, consider the key specifications that matter most for your hiking needs. Understanding these specs will help you find a watch that fits your requirements and preferences.GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy is crucial for hiking watches as it determines how precisely the watch can track your location and route. High GPS accuracy ensures you can navigate trails confidently and find your way back if you get lost. Watches with multi-band GPS or GLONASS support tend to offer better accuracy. If you often hike in dense forests or mountainous areas, opt for a watch with advanced GPS capabilities to ensure reliable tracking.
Battery LifeBattery life is important because it dictates how long your watch can function without needing a recharge. For long hikes or multi-day trips, a watch with extended battery life is essential. Battery life can range from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the model and usage. If you plan on long expeditions, choose a watch with a longer battery life or power-saving modes to ensure it lasts throughout your journey.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the watch can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including impacts, water exposure, and extreme temperatures. A durable hiking watch is typically built with rugged materials like reinforced polymers or stainless steel and has a high water resistance rating. If you often hike in challenging environments, look for a watch with robust construction and high durability ratings to ensure it can handle the wear and tear.
Navigation FeaturesNavigation features include maps, route planning, and breadcrumb trails that help you find your way on the trails. These features are essential for hikers who explore unfamiliar areas or complex terrains. Watches with topographic maps, turn-by-turn navigation, and route tracking provide comprehensive navigation support. If you frequently hike in new locations, prioritize watches with advanced navigation features to enhance your hiking experience.
Health and Fitness TrackingHealth and fitness tracking includes monitoring metrics like heart rate, steps, calories burned, and sleep patterns. These features help you keep track of your physical condition and optimize your hiking performance. Watches with comprehensive health tracking can provide valuable insights into your fitness levels and help you set and achieve goals. If you are health-conscious or training for specific hiking challenges, choose a watch with robust health and fitness tracking capabilities.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to the watch's ability to sync with other devices and apps, such as smartphones and fitness platforms. This allows you to receive notifications, upload your hiking data, and access additional features. Watches with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity offer seamless integration with your digital life. If you want to stay connected and share your hiking experiences, opt for a watch with strong connectivity options.
User InterfaceThe user interface includes the display quality, ease of navigation, and overall user experience. A clear, intuitive interface makes it easier to access and use the watch's features while hiking. Touchscreens, button controls, and customizable displays can enhance usability. If you prefer a straightforward and user-friendly experience, look for a watch with a well-designed interface that suits your preferences.