Using a GPS while hiking can enhance the hiking experience, especially the further into the wilderness and away from civilization you get. Some people may believe that using technology detracts from the experience of nature, but with a GPS you can experience even more of nature. It also allows you to use the information about your location to plan the next part of your hike to suit your capabilities. It is also a good idea to have a GPS device with you in case of emergencies.
A useful feature of many hiking GPS models is the point tracking system. As you hike you can place tracking points on the map. This then allows you to see the path that you have been hiking. With this information you can decide to use the same path on your way back or you decide to avoid that path and go a different way. Tracking points can also be used to return to points of interest or to remember places that may have been particularly difficult to traverse the first time. Some GPS devices are capable of sharing the tracking points, allowing you to send your friends along a trail that you found particularly enjoyable.
A GPS can also act like a compass when you are hiking. This is a handy feature to have if you want to hike in a particular direction, rather than rely on a map or follow a particular path or trail. A compass is also useful for when you get turned around.
Topographical information can be used with GPS devices while hiking. Heavily forested areas often block line of sight, but having topographical information at your fingertips helps to plan the hiking experience you want. You will know beforehand that once you clear a particularly forested area that there will be a series of hills that will need to be overcome.
