Tech expert Henry Burrell has discovered that the AllTrails walking app, costing just 10p per day, far surpasses Google Maps for hiking and walking navigation. The app, available on iPhone and Android, boasts over 90 million users worldwide and provides access to thousands of curated trail maps across the globe.
AllTrails vs Google Maps for walking
Burrell, Deputy Technology Editor at the Daily Express, tested the app and found it superior to Google Maps for outdoor exploration. While Google Maps is designed for point-to-point navigation, AllTrails offers detailed trail information, user reviews, and offline maps essential for hiking.
The free version, known as Base, allows users to save trails and navigate. However, the Plus subscription at £35.99 per year (£2.99 per month) unlocks offline maps, custom route creation, and off-route alerts. The Peak subscription at £79.99 per year adds community heatmaps, plant identification, and advanced route building.
Key features of AllTrails Plus
Burrell found offline maps essential for smooth navigation, even in areas with decent signal. The GPS functions without reception, ensuring accurate location tracking. Off-route alerts on iPhone and Apple Watch notify users if they deviate from the path, allowing them to keep their phone tucked away.
Android users with WearOS smartwatches (e.g., Google Pixel Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch) can also access these features. AllTrails supports sending routes to Garmin and Coros sports watches, enabling route start directly from the watch with automatic data upload.
Pricing and value
AllTrails Plus membership costs £35.99 per year, working out at 10p per day. Burrell considers this a worthwhile investment for casual walkers wanting to spend more time outdoors. The app also offers a 3D maps feature and Live Share for real-time location tracking with friends and family.
However, AllTrails maps lack the detail of Ordnance Survey maps, focusing on roads, paths, and elevation. The official OS Maps app offers similar features at £35.99 per year but is limited to the UK.
User experience
Burrell described AllTrails as ideal for those who want to explore the outdoors without being daunting. The app allows filtering by area, distance, and difficulty rating. Completed routes are saved to shape personalized recommendations.
"For those eager to get outdoors but unsure where to begin, AllTrails could provide the confidence needed to venture out and tackle a trail," Burrell said.
The app continuously uses GPS, so a portable charger is recommended for longer walks.
