Walking is a fantastic way to switch off from the demands of everyday life, but preparing for a long-distance challenge requires more than simply lacing up your boots.
Training for long-distance hikes often involves gradually building mileage over a number of weeks and exploring a variety of routes and terrains along the way. For many walkers, that means venturing beyond familiar paths and seeking out new trails to help prepare for the challenge ahead.
With route planning, navigation and trail discovery all playing an important role in the training process, digital tools have become increasingly popular among walkers and hikers.
Here are five ways AllTrails, with a community of over 95m users around the world, can help support preparation for a long-distance walking challenge.
1. Easily discover local routes
What AllTrails can do
Type in your location and AllTrails brings up a map filled with tappable routes, each featuring difficulty ratings, reviews and tags that indicate whether they are child-friendly, dog-friendly and more. You can also quickly see estimated completion times, route length, elevation gain and photos from the trail.
How it can help
This search feature allows walkers to choose routes according to criteria, such as accessibility, parking availability or dog-friendliness. It can also help uncover new local walks, from challenging hikes to hidden gems.
2. Take your maps offline
What AllTrails can do
Exclusive to AllTrails Plus is the ability to download saved routes so they remain accessible offline. This means you can refer to them even when walking through areas with no signal – a common challenge for hikers.
How it can help
Downloading routes allows you to check your progress and confirm you're on track at a glance, helping you stay confident and in control even when you're offline.
3. Alerts if you go off track
What AllTrails can do
If you accidentally wander off trail, AllTrails can notify you after you've strayed around 50 metres from the route. Notifications can be received whether your phone is locked or unlocked and can also be sent to supported smartwatches.
How it can help
This feature, exclusive to AllTrails Plus, could help prevent navigational mistakes that might otherwise cost valuable time.
4. Don't let weather conditions catch you out
What AllTrails can do
For more experienced walkers, AllTrails Plus makes it easier to plan for trail-specific conditions. Rain showers, muddy sections, snow and precipitation forecasts are all included.
How it can help
Walking in all weather conditions has its rewards, but planning ahead is something experienced hikers consistently recommend. Staying informed about changing conditions can be particularly valuable when tackling more challenging terrain.
5. Gain the confidence to explore
Planning ahead, understanding potential weather conditions and receiving alerts for wrong turns can make training for a long-distance walk feel less daunting and more enjoyable. With the right preparation, exploring new routes becomes easier, more accessible and more rewarding.
No signal? No problem
