AllTrails, a popular walking and hiking app with over 90 million users globally, provides a superior experience for countryside walks compared to Google Maps, according to a journalist who tested the app. The app compiles thousands of trail maps with user reviews, allowing users to discover well-trodden paths instantly.
Subscription Tiers and Features
While a free version (Base) exists, AllTrails offers Plus and Peak subscriptions at £35.99 and £79.99 per year, respectively. The Peak tier adds community heatmaps, in-app route building, route customization, and a plant identification feature. The Plus subscription, at £2.99 per month, unlocks offline map downloads, which the journalist found essential for faster performance and reliable navigation without constant data connection.
Why AllTrails Beats Google Maps for Walks
Google Maps is designed for efficient point-to-point navigation, often including adverts for local businesses. In contrast, AllTrails excels at finding circular routes in charming villages, such as a 10km walk through rolling hills. The app's maps are simplified, focusing on roads, paths, and elevation, unlike the detailed Ordnance Survey maps. However, AllTrails offers global coverage, while the official OS Maps app is UK-only.
User Experience and Safety Features
The journalist, a casual walker with experience from Cubs and cadets, found AllTrails ideal for those wanting to spend more time outdoors without being seasoned hikers. The app allows users to filter routes by area, distance, and difficulty. With the Plus membership, off-route alerts on iPhone and Apple Watch (or WearOS and Garmin/Coros watches) help users stay on track without constantly checking their phone. A Live Share option enables real-time location tracking for safety.
AllTrails also verifies routes before they appear in the app, enhancing trust. The app encourages users to venture outdoors without being condescending or overwhelming. The journalist noted that while the app may be too basic for advanced hikers, it is spot-on for UK hikers.
Practical Tips
Given the continuous GPS usage, carrying a power bank is recommended. For anyone eager to embrace the great outdoors but unsure where to start, AllTrails provides the confidence to tackle a trail, making the £2.99 per month subscription worthwhile for maintaining interest in walking.
