Hiking is a popular outdoor activity that requires a lot of preparation, and having the right gear is essential. One piece of equipment that can enhance your hiking experience is a GoPro camera. These compact cameras are designed to capture high-quality footage in rugged environments, making them ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.
When it comes to choosing the best Go Pro for hiking, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is durability. Hiking can be tough on gear, so you want a camera that can withstand the elements and any bumps or drops along the way. You’ll also want a camera that is lightweight and easy to carry so you don’t feel weighed down during your hike.
Another important factor to consider is the camera’s battery life. Hiking trips can last for several hours or even days, so you want a camera that can keep up with your adventures. A long battery life ensures that you won’t miss any of the action, and you won’t have to worry about running out of power in the middle of your hike.
After testing and researching various models, we have identified the best GoPro for hiking. In the following sections, we will discuss the features and benefits of our top pick and why it’s the perfect camera for your next hiking adventure.
Best Go Pro for Hiking
1. GoPro HERO9 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens
3. GoPro HERO8 Black + Lanyard
We know that capturing your adventures on camera is important, especially when it comes to hiking. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best Go Pros for hiking. These cameras are durable, lightweight, and have features that will help you capture stunning footage of your hikes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, one of these Go Pros will be perfect for you.
GoPro HERO9 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K Ultra HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
If you’re looking for a high-quality action camera for your hiking adventures, the GoPro HERO9 Black is a great option. With its impressive 5K video resolution and 20MP photo quality, you can capture all the details of your hike in stunning clarity. Plus, its rugged, waterproof design means you can take it with you no matter where your adventures take you.
Pros
- Stunning 5K video resolution for capturing all the details of your hike
- 20MP photo quality with SuperPhoto for pro-quality photos
- Durable, waterproof design for use in any conditions
Cons
- The camera can get hot quickly during use
- Short battery life
- Some users have reported issues with the camera not turning on
In our experience, the GoPro HERO9 Black is an excellent choice for hikers who want to capture their adventures in high quality. The 5K video resolution is particularly impressive, allowing you to zoom in on details without losing clarity. The SuperPhoto feature also ensures that your photos come out looking professional, even if you’re not an experienced photographer.
However, it’s worth noting that the camera can get hot quickly during use, which can be uncomfortable if you’re holding it for extended periods of time. Additionally, the battery life is relatively short, so you may need to bring extra batteries or a portable charger with you on longer hikes. Finally, some users have reported issues with the camera not turning on, although we did not experience this problem ourselves.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the GoPro HERO9 Black for hikers who want to capture their adventures in stunning detail. With its impressive video and photo quality, durable design, and user-friendly features, it’s a great investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
GoPro HERO11 Black
If you’re looking for a high-quality action camera for your hiking adventures, the GoPro HERO11 Black is worth considering.
Pros
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor: Capture more of the sky and horizon in every shot with the most expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera out of the box. Zoom in, crop your shots, change digital lenses, adjust aspect ratios, and more while keeping the rich textures and sharpness of your footage.
- Unbelievable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than 4K and an incredible 665% more than 1080p, HERO11 Black captures the action with crisp detail and cinematic image quality. A water-repelling lens cover even helps eliminate lens flare and other artifacts to make your photos and videos even more stunning.
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth Stabilization: HyperSmooth has never been better, winning an Emmy in 2021 for its In-Camera Sensor and Software Stabilization. HyperSmooth 5.0 raises the bar with Horizon Lock improved stabilization for 4:3 aspect ratio footage thanks to our new image sensor and AutoBoost for maximum stabilization with minimal image cropping.
Cons
- Price: The GoPro HERO11 Black is one of the most expensive action cameras on the market.
- Battery Life: Battery life is not the best compared to other models in the GoPro lineup.
- Limited Accessories: The HERO11 Black comes with a limited number of accessories in the box, so you may need to purchase additional mounts and accessories separately.
Overall, the GoPro HERO11 Black is an excellent choice for hikers who want high-quality footage of their adventures. The camera’s image quality, stabilization, and field of view are top-notch, making it easy to capture stunning footage. However, the price point may be a barrier for some, and the limited battery life and accessories may be a downside for others.
GoPro HERO8 Black + Lanyard
We highly recommend the GoPro HERO8 Black + Lanyard for anyone who loves to hike and capture their adventures. With its advanced features and rugged design, this camera is perfect for capturing stunning footage and photos while on the go.
Pros
- The LiveBurst feature captures the moments 1.5 seconds before and after your shot, ensuring you never miss a moment.
- The SuperPhoto + HDR feature allows you to capture killer 12-MP photos with improved HDR and reduced blur, even in low-light areas.
- The rugged and waterproof design allows you to take the camera on any adventure without worrying about damage.
Cons
- The camera can be quite expensive, especially when compared to other action cameras on the market.
- The battery life may not be sufficient for longer hikes or adventures.
- The camera can be difficult to operate for those who are not familiar with GoPro products.
The GoPro HERO8 Black + Lanyard is an excellent camera for hikers who want to capture their adventures. The LiveBurst feature is especially useful, as it ensures you never miss a moment of your hike. Additionally, the SuperPhoto + HDR feature allows you to capture stunning photos, even in low-light areas.
The rugged and waterproof design of the camera makes it perfect for taking on any adventure, whether it be hiking through the mountains or exploring a new city. However, the camera can be quite expensive, and the battery life may not be sufficient for longer hikes or adventures.
Overall, we highly recommend the GoPro HERO8 Black + Lanyard for anyone who wants a high-quality camera for their hiking adventures.
GoPro MAX
If you are looking for a versatile camera that can capture traditional GoPro-style video and photos, as well as immersive 360 footage, the GoPro MAX is a great option. With its unbreakable stabilization, six onboard microphones, and digital lens options, this camera is perfect for hikers who want to capture their adventures in a variety of ways.
Pros
- Three Cameras in One: Shoot traditional Hero-style video and photos or capture immersive 360 footage. Vlog to the max with shotgun-mic performance and a front-facing screen.
- Max HyperSmooth: Enjoy unbreakable stabilization by using 180-degree capture as the ultimate buffer.
- PowerPano: Take incredible 270-degree distortion-free panoramic photos without having to scan the horizon. Take PowerPano selfies, action shots, and vertical pics—all with a level horizon.
Cons
- Battery Life: The battery life of the GoPro MAX is not the best, lasting only a few hours.
- Lenses Scratch Easily: The lenses of the camera are relatively easily scratched and can affect the quality of the footage.
- Expensive: The camera is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
We recently took the GoPro MAX on a hiking trip and were blown away by its versatility. We were able to capture traditional video and photos of the beautiful scenery, as well as immersive 360 footage that made us feel like we were right in the middle of it all. The Max HyperSmooth stabilization made our footage look incredibly smooth, even when we were walking on rough terrain.
One of our favorite features of the GoPro MAX was the PowerPano mode. We were able to take stunning panoramic shots without having to pan, which made capturing the full beauty of the landscape a breeze. The six onboard microphones also delivered immersive 360 audio, making us feel like we were right in the middle of the action.
Overall, we highly recommend the GoPro MAX for hikers who want a versatile camera that can capture their adventures in a variety of ways. While it may be on the pricier side and have a shorter battery life, the stunning footage and immersive audio make it well worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best GoPro for hiking, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Size and Weight
Since you’ll be carrying your GoPro with you on long hikes, it’s important to choose a model that is compact and lightweight. This will make it easier to carry with you and won’t weigh you down as you trek up steep inclines.
Durability
Hiking can be tough on your gear, so you’ll want a GoPro that is built to withstand the elements. Look for models that are waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof so you can take them with you on any adventure.
Battery Life
Long hikes can last several hours or even days, so you’ll want a GoPro with a long battery life. Look for models with a battery life of at least two hours, or consider purchasing extra batteries to take with you.
Video Quality
Of course, one of the most important features of any GoPro is the video quality. Look for models with high-resolution video capabilities so you can capture stunning footage of your hikes.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that might be useful for hiking. For example, some GoPros come with built-in GPS, which can be helpful for tracking your route. Others have Wi-Fi capabilities, which allow you to quickly and easily share your footage with friends and family.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the best GoPro for your hiking needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest GoPro model suitable for hiking?
The latest GoPro model suitable for hiking is the GoPro HERO11 Black. It offers high-quality video and photo capabilities, improved stabilization, and longer battery life than previous models. It also has a rugged design that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Which GoPro camera has the best stabilization for hiking?
The GoPro HERO11 Black has the best stabilization for hiking. It features HyperSmooth 4.0 technology, which provides even smoother footage than previous models. This is especially useful when hiking on uneven terrain or when the camera is mounted on a backpack or helmet.
What are some recommended GoPro accessories for hiking?
Some recommended GoPro accessories for hiking include a chest mount, head strap, and tripod. These accessories allow for hands-free filming and stable shots. A spare battery and a portable charger are also recommended to ensure that the camera stays powered during long hikes.
Is the GoPro HERO11 Black worth the investment for hiking?
Yes, the GoPro HERO11 Black is worth the investment for hiking. Its advanced features and durable design make it a reliable and high-quality camera for capturing outdoor adventures. Its improved battery life and HyperSmooth 4.0 technology make it well-suited for hiking and other outdoor activities.
How long does the battery last on the GoPro Max for hiking?
The battery on the GoPro Max lasts for approximately 78 minutes when recording at 5.6K/30fps. However, this can vary depending on factors such as temperature and usage. It is recommended to bring a spare battery or portable charger when hiking to ensure that the camera stays powered.
What is the durability of GoPro cameras for hiking?
GoPro cameras are known for their durability and are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. They are waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, making them well-suited for hiking and other outdoor activities. However, it is still important to handle the camera with care and protect it from extreme temperatures and impacts.
