I tried AllTrails+ so you don’t have to
AllTrails+ caught my attention during a 50% off promotion back in March 2025. $18 for a full year. Solid deal.
The plan? Go in blind and see whether the “special features” were actually worth it. Now, as a solo female hiker, AllTrails+ has become a non-negotiable part of every trek. There’s more peace of mind knowing that the app is looking out for me while I enjoy the trail.
Below is a full breakdown of every unique AllTrails+ feature: what each one does, real-world use cases, and an honest verdict on whether it's worth your money.
This article was not created in collaboration with AllTrails. All opinions are my own.
Most loved features
Download trail maps
You will always have trail directions even if you lose service. AllTrails also expanded on the feature late last year, where you can download entire areas (like a state park), so you can find multiple trails offline.
Share live location with family or friends
This is different than normal iPhone location sharing because recipients receive the actual trail you plan to take. They will be able to tell if you veer off path, miss milestones, or take way longer than expected. Apparently, they can also “cheer you on” while you’re hiking. I’ve yet to find where this notification goes… I had to find out after the fact!
Find trails by distance from you
This was particularly helpful if I wanted to fit a hike into my itinerary while traveling. Filtering by distance allows me to pick trails based their travel time and distance.
Not my favorite features, but can be helpful
Get notified when you go off trail
Beneficial if the path is unclear or there are multiple paths running alongside each other. It notifies you once you’ve walked approx. 300 feet off path. However, it can get annoying when I want to deliberately venture off trail to admire nature, take a break, etc.
Preview trails and terrain in 3D / Tour photos along the trail
I would personally only use this if hiking in a group and need to know if there’s:
Photo ops or a nice view
Strenuous parts that could be hard for some people (like a steep climb)
If you’re a beginner, this could be helpful if you want to study the terrain before you go.
The verdict
$35 a year is great value for peace of mind
Plus, part of your annual AllTrails+ membership supports conservation and inclusion efforts through 1% For The Planet. Huge win!
I do recommend signing up if you…
Are a beginner hiker
Plan to hike a few times this year
Want to try solo hiking for the first time
It may not be necessary if you…
Often repeat trails that you’re familiar with
Plan to hike less than 4 times this year
Hike in groups of 3 people or more
New to AllTrails? When you sign up with my referral link, they’ll plant a tree for both of us.