Weekly Blog #18 - Hiking? There's an APP for that...Part 1
Note: There are Amazon Affiliate Links in this blog. Sponge receives a commission for purchases made from them.
posted: Saturday, August 29th, 2026
In a digital age, there are some worthwhile apps to consider for hikers.
It used to be that the only electronics a hiker would carry was a flashlight or camera. But smartphones have changed things. Now one lightweight item can contain a flashlight, GPS-device, camera, compass, weather forecaster, maps, online research, reading library and, well... actual phone.
Sponge, over his next 3 weekly blogs, will share his Top 10 apps worth downloading.
But first, a word about Apple vs. Android and being a 'purist' hiker
Certain apps shared by Sponge may not exist or be as compatible depending on the operating system of your phone. Sponge is "Team Apple" - and everything he shares is currently on his IPhone 15 Pro.
Also, some hikers are quick to point out that technology (and cell phones in particular) cheapen the trail experience. These purists point out that the point of hiking is to disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors - which has no WiFi. It's a strong point, but Sponge sees things a bit differently. For him, a cell phone is a tool to enhance a hike. Like any tool it can be used properly and prepared for the journey ahead.
App #1: Far Out (Free Download, Add-On $ for Maps)
Sponge will start with what is quickly becoming the go-to navigation app for many trails. This used to be "Guthook" and was then rebranded to Farout. The app offers some small sections and trails for free, but most maps are sold for a reasonable fee. Once purchased, you own that map forever - including all future updates.
What sets Far Out apart is the information a hiker can gain from the app about every potential mile they will hike. Water sources. Elevation profiles. Resupply options. Points of Interest. Unlike traditional maps, there is also the ability for users to post public comments that let others know of changes.
For example, on his 2025 hike of 110 miles of the Appalachian Trail, Sponge learned from user posts that an upcoming water source was potentially inhabited by large copperhead snake. You better believe he used some extra caution when filling his 3 Liter there! Another few users posted about someone throwing up at a shelter - valuable intel when considering noroviruses. Sponge avoided that stop alotgether.
Sponge really missed Far Out when he hiked the Superior Hiking Trail - especially when he learned that Avenza cut future map support for the SHT, but he was relieved to see it will be available on his cell when he hits the Ice Age Trail in June 2027.
App #2: Merlin (Free)
This is one of Sponge's favorite apps - on the trail and off. It allows users to identify birds - either with visual pictures and or audibly (using your phone's microphone to match bird calls). To reduce false identifications - birds common to the area you're located in are shown more prominently.
Birds you have 'spotted' then are added to a "Life List." It becomes mildly addictive to continually add more - almost like collecting Pokémon.
For those who worry about battery life - there's a cool feature where you can download pics/audio for birds in an area.
App #3: Notes (Free)
Sponge knows what you're thinking: "Huh? Of the THOUSANDS of apps out there you're recommending one that ids already pre-loaded???" Yes, Sponge is.
Notes is one of Sponge's most frequently-used apps on the trail for a few strategic reasons. He uses it to create his travel diary - taking advantage of microphone dictation, auto-saving and improved customizations (font colors, check-off lists, multimedia attachments, etc.)
He also uses it as a quick and easy way to capture what he wants to do at camp that night or things he'd like to change or improve once after the trail for good.
Best of all? It uses a ridiculously low amount of battery juice. It can also work in conjunction with a "Dark" mode to use even less.
Next week Sponge will tackle another 3 invaluable apps for the trail. Get ready to download and hike on!