How to Use a GPS for Hiking: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're new to using a handheld GPS device or a Garmin GPS for hiking, this guide will walk you through the basics — from planning your route to saving your track at the end of the day. Whether you're tackling a local trail or heading into the hills, learning how to use a GPS will give you more confidence, greater safety, and better navigation on your outdoor adventures.
🎥 Prefer to watch? We’ve embedded our full video guide below showing exactly how to use a GPS device while hiking.
Why Use a GPS for Hiking?
A GPS unit allows you to follow a planned route, monitor your progress, and always know exactly where you are, even with no mobile signal. Unlike a phone, outdoor GPS devices are rugged, waterproof, and built to last. They’re ideal for long-distance walkers, hikers, and anyone navigating off the beaten path.
1. Plan Your Route or Import a GPX File
Before you head out, you’ll need to either:
- Plan your own route using mapping software like Garmin BaseCamp or GPS Training’s free online route planner.
- Import a GPX file, which is a pre-planned route someone else has created (often used for long-distance trails).
💡 Tip: Even if your GPS doesn't include 1:25k OS mapping, you can plan your route using 1:25k maps online, then overlay the GPX route on your GPS’s built-in map.
2. Transfer the Route to Your GPS Unit
Once you’ve created or found a GPX file, it needs to be transferred to your device. There are two common methods:
- USB transfer via your computer (works on most GPS units)
- Wireless transfer via the Garmin Connect app (available on models like the GPSMAP 66/ 67 series or Montana 7xx series)
3. Load the Route at the Start of Your Walk
Before you start walking:
- Switch on your GPS and wait for a satellite signal
- Calibrate the compass (this improves accuracy)
- Load your planned route or track onto the unit
You're now ready to follow the route using your GPS.
4. Navigate Using the GPS Screen
When hiking with a GPS, you’ll primarily use:
- Compass Page – Follow the directional arrow and monitor stats like distance to your next waypoint or estimated time of arrival.
- Map Page – Shows your route and current location overlaid on your map. A compass rose at the top helps orient your direction.
Other useful screens include the Trip Computer (distance walked, speed, stop time) and the Elevation Page (your ascent and descent).
🔁 It's as simple as this: follow the arrow on the screen and enjoy your walk!
5. Save Your Track at the End of the Day
At the end of your walk:
- Stop navigation of the route (this will remove the directional arrows from the screen)
- Save your track, which is a breadcrumb trail of where you’ve walked — a true record of your day
This saved track can be reviewed later or used to retrace your steps using the "Trackback" feature.
Free GPS Training When You Buy from Us
When you buy a Garmin GPS from GPS Training, you’ll receive free access to our full online training resource, including over 55 step-by-step videos covering setup and use for every GPS model we sell.
Plus, you’re welcome to join one of our nationwide GPS training courses. We run them throughout the UK — from the South Downs to the Scottish Highlands — and we’d love to help you get the most from your GPS.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to use a GPS for hiking doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance, a bit of practice, and the right tools, you’ll be navigating confidently in no time.
Further reading
1. GPS Training - What options are available
Philip Stickland
Very useful. Simply put which ideal is if were not bought up in the age of tech know. Thankyou.