This Hiking Watch Can Give You Directions So You Don't Get Lost In The Woods

Nothing quite beats your first glimpse at a totally Insta-worthy view when you reach the top of a solid trek—but looking down at your hiking watch post-schlep to check out how good of a workout you just got is a close second.

Whether you're new to the trails or practically a pro mountaineer, there's something pretty special about getting out there for a hike (or trail run!). From the fresh air to the steep inclines, it's more than an adequate substitute for your favorite studio sweat. If you want to really take your outdoor workouts to new heights (sorry, had to), though—or are skeptical that the burn is really *that* impressive—then it sounds like you need a hiking watch.

I know what you're thinking: “Sweet, I’ve got a fitness tracker hanging around somewhere...” But any ‘ole step tracker just isn’t going to cut it, because hiking is about SOO much more than putting one foot in front of the other. You want a device that can capture the elevation you gain, the type of terrain you traverse, the temperature fluctuations you endure, and more.

To get the clearest picture of your rocky accomplishments, you’re going to want a tracker with an altimeter, a compass, a heart rate monitor, and a GPS tracker.

That sounds like a lot to look for, I get it. Lucky for you, though, I did all of the leg work of sorting through online reviews, product descriptions, and expert recommendations in order to narrow down the best hiking watches you can slap on your wrist to the 10 on this list. After all, the real work should start once you get off the grid, right? Scroll on to meet your next hiking buddy.