Hiking Navigation: Using a GPS Watch
There are many methods to navigate when hiking. Our preferred setup combines smartphones, an inReach Mini, and of course, GPS watches. With a watch, you simply load a route, click “navigate”, and it overlays the route on a topographic map, providing clear, real-time guidance whilst you stay on the move.
We’ve relied on Garmin watches for all our self-supported Fastest Known Times (AAWT, Bibbulmun, and TA), and they’ve been indispensable. In nearly 5000km of FKTs, we haven’t made a single major navigation mistake—much of that success is thanks to our GPS watches.
That said, using a GPS watch only makes sense in specific situations, such as when you’re off-track, navigating tricky terrain, attempting FKTs, or trail running. So, if you’re considering one for your next hike, here is our take on using these devices to navigate.
Pros and cons of using a GPS watch
Pros
- Can easily be checked whilst walking or running
- No risk of dropping and breaking your phone
- Consumes significantly less power compared to a smartphone
- Functions reliably in the rain (no need to use a touchscreen)
- Notifies you when you veer off course
- Provides an easy way to monitor progress and view elevation profiles
- Allows you to add course points to measure distances to key locations, such as campsites, water sources, or towns
Cons
- Need to be recharged every 1–3 days
- Overall, requires more work to set up:
- Needs an accurate GPX file to be useful, which takes time to create
- GPX files may need to be split into smaller sections (preferably under 50km due to file compression from course point limits)
- Uploading files to the watch can be a lengthy process
- If the watch has an AMOLED screen, wrist detection for activating the display can be finicky
Discussion
A GPS watch certainly offers several advantages when it comes to navigation. Primarily, it is incredibly easy to check whilst on the move, minimising the risk of dropping your phone or tripping over from looking at a bigger screen. Not to mention, it has the functionality to provide elevation stats, monitor your walk, and even notify you when you veer off track. It also offers significantly better power efficiency and performs much better in rainy conditions compared to a smartphone.
However, there are some big drawbacks to using a GPS watch. Firstly, you need to charge it. Whilst carrying a watch doesn’t necessarily mean you will be consuming more power (as you will probably be using your phone less for navigation), it does mean that you have an extra device to charge (and hence need to carry another charging cable or adaptor). For those looking for simplicity, this may be annoying.
Additionally, the setup process requires lots of time and effort. Creating an accurate GPX file, splitting large files into smaller sections, and uploading them to the watch can all be time-consuming. If you GPX file is not accurate enough, your watch will constantly buzz to tell you you’re off course. Depending on the trail, it can be challenging to find a GPX file that is accurate enough online, and you might need to edit it to make it more useful.
So ultimately, deciding whether to use a GPS watch boils down to one simple question: Can I be bothered to set it up for the hike?
For us, if the answer is no, it is usually because we don’t think we’ll need it. This is typically the case when the terrain is mild, navigation is relatively easy, and there is no pressing time constraint.
However, if the answer is yes, it is because we know we are gearing up for a challenging trip where every advantage is crucial. This may be an FKT or a difficult off-track traverse through a mountain range that we have meticulously planned in advance.
Preferred GPS watch models
Our current preferred model is the Garmin 955 Solar. We prefer MIPS screens (despite their lower detail) over AMOLED models due to issues with wrist detection and excessive brightness at night. We also favour the Forerunner series over the Fenix series because the Forerunner is thinner and lighter. The 955 Solar weighs 43g with a nylon band, compared to 63g for an equivalent Fenix 8 with the same band.
Conclusion
Whilst not useful for every situation, we like to use GPS watches on FKT attempts or on hikes with challenging navigation (such as extended off-track walking). For solo hikers or people planning a difficult trail with lots of navigation, we would recommend carrying a GPS watch as a backup navigation device.
A GPS watch offers several advantages, with convenience being one of the biggest. It uses less power and lets you quickly monitor your walk or choose the right direction at intersections, saving time and reducing the risk of tripping.
To create a solid navigation strategy, think about combining a GPS watch with other tools. Our articles on Why You Should Use Digital Navigation Methods for Hiking and Creating a Reliable Digital Navigation System for Hiking offer helpful tips.
For more information on which apps we use in tandem with our GPX watches, check out The Best Hiking Navigation Apps. These resources will help you build a reliable navigation system for your next hikes.