When you’re heading out for a hike, whether it’s a short day trip or a long trekking adventure, having the right navigation tools is crucial. A reliable GPS watch can guide you through the wilderness, and few brands offer the precision and durability of Garmin.
In this post, we’re sharing our top picks for Garmin watches designed for hiking. Each of these models is equipped with essential navigation tools, such as ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, compass), and they all boast rugged designs and long battery life. Here are the best Garmin watches for your next outdoor adventure in 2025.
Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is an excellent choice for those who want a rugged, solar-powered watch. Despite having a basic monochrome MIP screen, the solar charging feature sets this model apart. With regular exposure to sunlight, the watch can technically run forever on solar power. Even without solar charging, the battery lasts over 3 weeks in smartwatch mode.
The Instinct 2 is built to military standards, meaning it’s highly resistant to impacts, heat, and water (up to 10 ATM). While it lacks topographical maps, it offers basic path navigation, making it a reliable companion for the outdoors. If you prefer a larger model, consider the Instinct 2X Solar, which offers even better battery life but may be too large for those with smaller wrists.
Garmin Forerunner 165
For hikers looking for an affordable and feature-rich option, the Garmin Forerunner 165 is a great pick. This model features a vibrant AMOLED screen, basic GPS tracking, and up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. While it doesn’t offer advanced navigation features like topographical maps or Multi-Band GPS, it’s a solid choice for day hikes or casual outdoor use.
The Forerunner 165’s main limitation is its lack of Multi-Band GPS, which can affect accuracy in areas with heavy tree cover or challenging terrain. However, it’s an excellent entry-level option for those new to Garmin watches.
Garmin Forerunner 265
If you’re looking for something with a bit more power, the Garmin Forerunner 265 is a great upgrade. This watch offers all the features of the Forerunner 165, but with better satellite connectivity thanks to Multi-Band GPS. It also boasts a better display with more durability, and it includes a triathlon mode for those who enjoy a variety of outdoor sports.
With 13 days of battery life and an AMOLED display, the Forerunner 265 provides excellent value, especially for hikers who want reliable GPS tracking and a more robust design. It’s also available in a smaller size, making it a good option for those with smaller wrists.
Garmin Forerunner 965
The Garmin Forerunner 965 takes everything great about the 265 and adds a full GPS mapping system. With the ability to plan routes, view itineraries, and access detailed topographical maps, the Forerunner 965 is a top choice for serious adventurers. It also features a durable titanium bezel and an impressive 23-day battery life in smartwatch mode.
While the Forerunner 965 offers incredible navigation capabilities, it’s not the most budget-friendly option. However, for those who want a comprehensive hiking and outdoor companion, the Forerunner 965 is hard to beat.
Garmin Forerunner 955
The Forerunner 955 is an excellent middle-ground option that combines the navigation features of the 965 with a more accessible price point. With a smaller MIP screen and slightly shorter battery life, it’s still a highly capable watch. The addition of solar charging extends its battery life, making it a solid choice for long hikes.
While it’s not as advanced as the 965, the Forerunner 955 still offers all the essential features, including a full GPS system, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants excellent performance without breaking the bank.
Garmin Fenix 7 Pro
For ultimate durability and performance, the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro is one of the best options for outdoor enthusiasts. With a rugged build, sapphire glass, and a titanium bezel, this watch can withstand harsh environments. It also features a solar-powered battery that lasts up to 22 days in smartwatch mode, ensuring that you’re always ready for long adventures.
The Fenix 7 Pro includes full GPS mapping, navigation features, and an incredibly clear display. While it is bulky and may not be suitable for smaller wrists, it’s the ultimate watch for serious hikers and explorers who need a tough, reliable companion.
Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
If you love the Fenix 7 Pro but prefer an AMOLED screen, the Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is the watch for you. It offers the same high-quality build, GPS mapping, and features as the Fenix 7, with the added benefit of a brighter, more legible AMOLED display. The trade-off is a slightly reduced battery life, but it’s still impressive at 16 days in smartwatch mode.
This watch is perfect for those who want a more vibrant screen for navigation and an easy-to-read map display. The Epix Pro is available in multiple sizes, ensuring a good fit for everyone.
Garmin Enduro 2
For those seeking the best battery life in a Garmin watch, the Enduro 2 is the standout. With up to 46 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, this watch is designed for extreme endurance. It also features an AMOLED display, a rugged build, and 10 ATM water resistance, making it ideal for serious adventurers.
While it’s not a small watch, the Enduro 2 provides unmatched performance for long treks and multi-day hikes. If you prioritize battery life and ruggedness, this is the ultimate option.
Conclusion
Garmin offers a wide range of watches for hikers, from basic models like the Forerunner 165 to the feature-packed Fenix 7 Pro and Epix Pro. Whether you’re looking for excellent GPS navigation, a durable design, or a long-lasting battery, there’s a Garmin watch for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Which Garmin watch is your favorite for hiking and outdoor adventures? Let us know in the comments!
