Unfortunately, the linked article tries to make a simple, blanket, sound byte statement ("Warning Hikers Not To Use Cellphone Maps") about a rather wide ranging topic. Even worse, the linked article cites an example, but give absolutely no supporting info. What cell phone app were they using? What maps were in the app? Did they even know how to use the cell phone app? Or was it really a case of operator error?

I routinely use the Gaia app on my iPhone. I find it works extremely well. I can choose to use either the Gaia base maps, USGS Topo maps, or satellite imagery. I typically use the Gaia base map because it has the best current coverage of trails, much better and more up to date than the trails shown USGS Topo maps. With a Premium subscription I can also use National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps for the base. Maps can be downloaded to my phone for use in areas without cell coverage.

Interestingly enough, the end of the article says "A good old-fashioned compass and paper map or a handheld GPS device are recommended for hikers by Fish and Game officials.", (emphasis mine). The thing is, the best smartphone navigation apps are every bit as good, and often better than what one can do with a handheld GPS.

To state that hikers should never rely on smartphone maps is a gross oversimplification, in my opinion.


I agree wholeheartedly with this. I generally always carry a printed map as well as a smartphone with GPS app and/or a dedicated GPS. Paper maps don't require power. It is much easier to get an overview of an area on a printed map than a small screen. General route planning is often easier on a printed map. And redundancy is always a good thing.

I routinely carry and use both paper map and compass, and a smartphone GPS or handheld GPS. But to repeat what I said above, to claim that hikers should never use smartphone maps is flat wrong.