FarOut: Hike, Bike, Paddle

FarOut long trail hiking products are the very best for novice and experienced backpackers alike. They are simple, reliable detailed maps with everything a backpacker needs for a successful hike. The maps are routinely updated to ensure accuracy and saved me a couple times when I wondered off trail on the PCT while not paying enough attention. The embedded trail alerts and user generated reports on water sources and camping are invaluable. I have hiked many times with and without FarOut map products on various trails. If they are available for your hike, pay the very reasonable price and don’t set out without FarOut in hand. One more thing, their tech support is second to none. I needed to have my account reset and several of my previously purchased hiking products reloaded to my account and tech support (Kevin) got right on it and gave me the personalized attention that companies rarely provide in the post Covid world. I was up and running again in no time. These guys are the best! Thanks FarOut.

Anything I can do to get this app a 5-star review is worth my time. Everything from the ground up, from the original idea to how well it works on trail is life-changing on the trail and even in the planning stages. I come from 25 years of thru-hiking experience. My hiking days began with National Geographic articles, carrying guide books on trail, and then Halfmile’s maps were a constant companion on the PCT, until the Colorado Trail in 2015. That was my first Guthook experience and it was incredible. In an instant, I was able to see exactly where I was on trail, where the water was or wasn’t, and even the best places in towns in more or less real time. I like the social aspect somewhat, more for the information I really need. I hope Atlas expands to include more trails- while realizing that lesser known trails are less traveled and the return on investment might not be warranted. But there’s a space on my phone for a Guthook on a thru-hike no matter how how short or long, a thru is a thru- my money and yours is well spent within this app.

What a difference this app makes on a thru hike! Although it does take away a bit of the spontaneous adventure out of a hike, it’s more than necessary for the modern interpretation of a thru hike. Being able to plan out your day with accurate up to date information makes it possible to push all the way until dark and not worry about water or a flat spot to camp. The aspect of a community is also great with the ability to easily add your own input and look back on what previous generations of hikers had to say. You’ll see some sweet hidden gems along the trail because of this! I love the concept for the big trails, and I won’t ever attempt a thru hike without something like it. However, I give 4 stars because there is still a lot of room for improvement. Even in the couple years I’ve had the app they’ve made some good changes, but it still feels a bit awkward navigating through the app on occasion and some features feel a bit lazy. I’m sure as more and more folks start to flood the trails who are used to the constant influence of technology the app will feel pressure to change. Overall it serves the purpose great, and the GPS feature could literally be a life saver. Just don’t get too caught up in the constant updates on mileage.