7 Best Weather Apps for Hikers

Planning a hike? Don’t let the weather catch you off guard.

Here are the 7 best weather apps for hikers:

1. Weather Underground: Hyper-local forecasts from 250,000+ weather stations
2. Dark Sky (Apple Weather): Precise short-term predictions
3. OpenSummit: Mountain-specific forecasts for 1,000+ peaks
4. Windy: Detailed wind and precipitation maps
5. NOAA Weather Radar Live: Real-time radar updates every 5-10 minutes
6. Mountain Forecast: Elevation-specific weather for 11,000+ summits
7. RadarScope: Pro-level storm tracking

Key features to look for:

• Real-time updates
• Altitude-specific forecasts
• Severe weather alerts
• Offline functionality

Remember: No app is perfect. Use multiple sources and always be prepared for changing conditions on the trail.

Quick Comparison

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What Makes a Good Hiking Weather App

Picking the right weather app for hiking can be a handy tool. So, what should you look for?

Let’s dive in.

First up: real-time updates. Mountain weather’s a fickle beast, changing on a dime. You need an app that keeps pace, giving you the latest info to make smart calls on the trail.

Next, forget those generic city forecasts. You want location-specific predictions. Take Spotwx – it lets you pinpoint exact spots on a map for precise forecasts. Pretty neat, right?

Taryn, a seasoned hiker and writer, shares a pro tip:

“On my Bowron Lakes canoe trip, we used our Garmin inReach Mini to request a weather forecast each night and used that to plan the next day’s paddle. It was a lifesaver on our trip as we knew that a big rainstorm was coming (that wasn’t in the forecast before we left).”

But wait, there’s more. The best apps don’t just tell you if it’s hot or cold.

They dish out the details:

• Wind speed and direction
• Cloud cover
• Atmospheric pressure
• Air quality
• Freezing levels (crucial for high-altitude treks)

Windy’s a standout here. It’s got all these features, plus it lets you compare forecasts from different weather models.

Now, let’s talk alerts. Early warnings can be real lifesavers in the backcountry. Look for apps that give you a heads-up about nasty stuff like thunderstorms or extreme temps.

Here’s a biggie: offline functionality. Cell service on trails? Often a joke. Your app should work without a signal, so you’re not left high and dry (or wet and cold).

Data sources matter too. Weather Underground, for instance, taps into NOAA’s NEXRAD radar and a network of personal weather stations for spot-on forecasts.

Don’t overlook the interface. When you’re on the trail, you want info at a glance. Go for apps with clear, easy-to-read displays.

Customization’s a plus too. Every hiker’s different, so apps that let you tweak alerts and displays to your liking are golden.

Pierre-Alexandre, who runs Randos-MontBlanc, gives Windy a thumbs up:

“Considering the amount of information offered by Windy, I can only recommend that you try it!”

But here’s the kicker: no app’s perfect. Use multiple sources, trust your eyes, and pack some common sense. The further out a forecast, the shakier it gets.

Bottom line?

A solid weather app’s a great tool, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. As Taryn puts it:

“Being prepared is an important part of staying safe when you hike. You might be in a remote location or high in the mountains, hours from help.”

So, grab a good app, but don’t skimp on the planning and prep. Happy trails!

1. Weather Underground

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Weather Underground isn’t just another weather app. It’s a hiker’s secret weapon. With data from over 250,000 personal weather stations worldwide, it gives you hyper-local forecasts that other apps can’t touch.

Here’s what makes Weather Underground stand out:

• 10-day forecast (Dark Sky only gives you 7)
• Hourly breakdowns
• Wind speed and direction
• Humidity levels
• Barometric pressure
• Precipitation estimates
• Visibility reports

But the real gem? The “First Light/Last Light” feature. It tells you when it’ll actually get dark, not just sunset times. That’s crucial for planning safe trail exits.

Claire Montana Jencks, a freelance writer and designer, says:

“WU offers easy to read forecasts, intuitive navigation and the option to toggle between a light and dark interface.”

Weather Underground combines NOAA’s NEXRAD radar network with its army of personal weather stations. The result? Forecasts that are often more accurate than standard weather services.

Worried about sudden weather changes? Set up custom alerts for specific conditions. You’ll never be caught off guard by an approaching storm again.

The basic version is free, but serious hikers might want to consider the premium subscription ($3.99/month or $19.99/year).

It unlocks:

• Visual forecasts up to 15 days out
• A “smart forecast” tool for personalized weather alerts
• Ad-free experience

Just a heads up: some users have reported issues with recent updates since IBM took over. But for many hikers, Weather Underground’s wealth of data and community-driven approach still make it the go-to choice for trail-ready forecasts.

2. Dark Sky (Apple Weather)

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Dark Sky, now part of Apple Weather, is a hiker’s secret weapon. Why? It gives you weather predictions so precise, it’s like having a meteorologist in your pocket.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

1. Hyper-local forecasts: Dark Sky can tell you the weather on your exact trail, not just the nearest town.
2. Short-term accuracy: It’s scary good at predicting what’ll happen in the next hour. Perfect for dodging those surprise showers.
3. User-friendly design: One glance at its 24-hour timeline tells you everything you need to know. No more squinting at confusing charts.
4. Precipitation predictions: It doesn’t just say “rain”. It tells you if it’ll be a drizzle or a downpour.

One cool feature? The app’s animated precipitation chart. As one hiker put it:

“The wobblier it was, the less accurate the prediction. The more stable, the more accurate.”

It’s like a built-in accuracy meter. Neat, right?

Now, some folks aren’t thrilled about Apple buying Dark Sky. Vox reported:

“Apple says Dark Sky’s most beloved features have been integrated into its app, but Dark Sky fans aren’t convinced.”

But here’s the bottom line: Apple Weather, powered by Dark Sky, is still a top-notch tool for hikers. It gives you the info you need to make smart choices on the trail. Whether you’re planning your route or deciding if it’s time to head back, this app’s got your back.

3. OpenSummit

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OpenSummit is a hiker’s best friend for high-altitude trails. It’s not your average weather app – it’s all about mountain-specific forecasts.

Here’s what makes OpenSummit stand out:

• Detailed weather predictions for over 1,000 mountain spots in the US
• 232 peaks covered in Colorado alone
• Forecasts for specific locations like Buffalo Mountain and Mount Elbert

But what really sets it apart? It focuses on the stuff hikers actually care about:

• How likely is it to rain?
• What’s the lightning risk? (Because nobody wants to be a human lightning rod)
• How cold will it be at the top?
• How windy is it going to get?
• When’s sunrise and sunset?

Sam Collentine, who runs operations and forecasting at OpenSummit, says:

“We are taking national weather service data that we worked into the back end… that is our number one source, which is good data that isn’t shown very well on the web or on mobile.”

In other words, they’re taking solid info and making it actually useful for hikers.

But wait, there’s more! OpenSummit also throws in:

• A checklist for gear and supplies
• Tips on how not to get zapped by lightning
• Leave No Trace principles (because we all want to keep nature nice)

And get this – it works offline too. Once you’ve looked at a forecast, it’s saved. So even when you’re out in the middle of nowhere with no signal, you can still check the weather.

The free version gives you hourly forecasts for the next two days. Want to plan further ahead? The All Access Pass ($19.99/year) lets you see days 3-5.

OpenSummit recently joined forces with OpenSnow, so it’s getting even better. Joel Gratz from OpenSnow hints:

“Additional forecast data and locations will be added over time.”

4. Windy

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Windy is a top-notch weather app that hikers and outdoor enthusiasts swear by. It’s not just about wind – this app delivers detailed forecasts and interactive maps that can make all the difference in your hiking plans.

Here’s why hikers can’t get enough of Windy:

• It offers hyper-local forecasts. You can zoom in on specific trails or peaks for spot-on accuracy.
• You get multiple weather models. Compare forecasts from ECMWF, AROME, and ICON-D2 to get the full picture.
• The visuals are stunning. Colorful, animated maps show wind patterns, precipitation, and more at a glance.
• It provides hourly breakdowns. Plan your hike hour-by-hour with detailed forecasts.

Windy really shines in mountainous areas where weather can flip on a dime. The app’s high-resolution models capture the big differences between valleys and peaks that other apps might miss.

For the hardcore hikers, Windy’s premium version ($29.99/year) unlocks 1-hour forecasts updated four times daily. That’s a game-changer when every hour matters on the trail.

Here’s a real-world example: During trips around Vancouver Island, Environment Canada predicted strong 20-30 knot winds. But Windy showed calm conditions along the planned route. The result? A smooth hike while the gales blew further south.

Chris Townsend of TGO Magazine sums it up nicely:

“Windy is a wonderful app for anyone interested in the weather worldwide. For walkers it’s a great way to find out what the weather is doing if you’re going overseas.”

Want a pro tip? Use Windy’s “Reported wind” overlay to compare live conditions with forecasts. It’s like having a network of weather stations right on the trail.

Don’t forget, that wind can make or break a hike.

At 30 mph, you’ll feel pushback while walking. Hit 50 mph, and you’re in risky territory. Windy helps you dodge these scenarios with its detailed wind forecasts and easy-to-use Beaufort Scale integration.

Windy isn’t just an app – it’s your personal weather expert for the mountains. Whether you’re planning a quick day hike or a week-long trek, this powerful tool keeps you one step ahead of Mother Nature’s mood swings.

5. NOAA Weather Radar Live

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NOAA Weather Radar Live is a top-notch weather app for hikers. It taps into the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s data, giving you pro-level info right on your phone.

What’s cool about this app?

It’s all about NOW. While other apps might tell you it’ll rain “sometime today”, NOAA Weather Radar Live shows you exactly where that rain is at this moment.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• HD radar images update every 5-10 minutes
• Interactive satellite maps let you zoom in on your spot
• Push notifications for severe weather
• Detailed forecasts with all the nerdy weather stats you could want

One hiker, Matt, is a big fan:

“NOAA website – the best and able to pinpoint a forecast. Love the written description and also the charts with precip/temp/freezing point/cloud cover etc.”

The app takes all that good stuff from the website and puts it in your pocket.

Hiking in the mountains?

NOAA Weather Radar Live has you covered. It shows radar for the Continental US, most of Alaska, Hawaii, and even parts of Canada and Mexico. So whether you’re trekking the Appalachian Trail or exploring the Rockies, you’re set.

For the serious hikers out there, you can bookmark your favorite trails or campsites. This means you’ll get alerts and warnings specific to those spots.

The basic version is free, but for $5.99, you can unlock some extra goodies. These include alerts for all your saved spots and fancy precipitation forecasts. It’s a small price for some extra peace of mind on the trail.

6. Mountain Forecast

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Mountain Forecast is a must-have app for high-altitude hikers. It offers weather info for over 11,000 mountain summits worldwide. What makes it special? Elevation-specific forecasts.

Instead of a general prediction, you get weather breakdowns at different altitudes. This is gold for planning multi-day treks or summit attempts.

Here’s what Mountain Forecast brings to the table:

• Weather data for up to 5 elevations per mountain
• Details on cloud cover, wind, temperature, and freezing level
• Free 6-day forecasts (12-day for subscribers)
• Four daily forecast updates

The app’s layout is a breeze to use. You can switch between elevation bands to check weather for different camp spots and summits. Deciding whether to push for the peak or stay at base camp? This info is priceless.

Andy, a seasoned mountaineer, says:

“Most backcountry travelers know Mountain-Forecast.com. It’s the only site giving detailed mountain-specific forecasts, crucial for planning mountain activities.”

But heads up: Mountain Forecast uses algorithms from broad weather models. It’s usually on point but might miss some local quirks. Alpine Ascents International notes:

“One key limitation to Mountain Forecast is its use of algorithm-based info from broad weather models.”

To get the most out of Mountain Forecast:

1. Look at trends, not just specifics, especially for long-range forecasts.
2. Keep an eye on the freezing level – it helps with gear choices.
3. Mix Mountain Forecast with on-the-spot observations and other weather sources.

Going off-grid? Subscribers can access offline maps and forecasts – a potential lifesaver in the backcountry.

Leigh Strong, a US user, is a fan:

“A must-have for mountain enthusiasts. The elevation-specific forecasts are key for planning and climbing. It’s the top mountain weather app out there!”

Mountain Forecast is a powerful tool, but remember: mountain weather is unpredictable. Use it as part of your safety strategy, not as your only weather source. Combine its forecasts with your observations and experience, and you’ll be set for your next mountain adventure.

7. RadarScope

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RadarScope isn’t your average weather app. It’s the go-to tool for hikers who need serious storm-tracking power.

What makes it special? RadarScope gives you NEXRAD Level 3 and Super-Resolution radar data. That’s the same high-level radar info private pilots use to dodge storms.

Here’s why hikers love RadarScope:

• It updates every 2-10 minutes. You’ll always have fresh data on the trail.
• It warns you about tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flash floods. It’s like having a weather pro in your pocket.
• You can see reflectivity, velocity, and dual-polarization data. These help you figure out how strong a storm is and where it’s headed.

Mark Liederbach, who uses RadarScope, says:

“RadarScope for maps, Apple’s Weather app for forecasts (but missing Dark Sky greatly).”

Planning a long hike? Check out RadarScope’s Pro subscription:

• Tier One ($9.99/year): Real-time lightning data and 30 frames of radar data.
• Tier Two ($14.99/month or $99.99/year): Everything in Tier One, plus extras like SPC outlooks and a 30-day radar archive.

The basic iOS app costs $9.99. It might seem pricey, but it’s worth it for the detail you get. This isn’t just nice to have – it’s a must for hikers who need to make smart choices when the weather turns nasty.

Keep in mind, RadarScope shows data from one radar at a time. To get the most out of it:

1. Use the location button to find the closest radar to where you’re hiking.
2. Play around with different radar products to understand storms better.
3. Use RadarScope’s detailed radar along with other apps’ forecasts for a full weather picture.

RadarScope might be overkill for a quick day hike. But for long backpacking trips or hiking where the weather can change fast, it’s a tool that could save your life.

Conclusion

Picking the right weather app for hiking isn’t just about convenience – it’s about safety. With so many options out there, you need to focus on apps that cater to hikers’ specific needs.

Here’s how to pick the best one:

1. Go for location-specific forecasts

City forecasts won’t help you on remote trails or mountain peaks. Apps like Mountain Forecast and OpenSummit give you elevation-specific predictions. These are key for planning multi-day hikes or summit attempts.

2. Get real-time updates

Mountain weather can flip in a second. Apps like Dark Sky (now part of Apple Weather) give you minute-by-minute forecasts. This helps you stay one step ahead of sudden storms.

3. Check the data sources

The best apps, like NOAA Weather Radar Live, use pro-grade data from organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

4. Look for offline access

Cell service often sucks on trails. Apps like Windy let you access forecasts offline. This could be a lifesaver in the backcountry.

5. Use multiple sources

Pierre-Alexandre, who founded Randos-MontBlanc, says:

“Knowing the weather before leaving is crucial information for a successful hike.”

He suggests using apps like Windy along with local services like MeteoSwiss for hiking in Switzerland.

No single app is perfect. Taryn, an experienced hiker and author, points out:

“Don’t rely on a city forecast for your hike. Always check a location-specific forecast using one of the weather apps for hiking I’ve listed above.”

It’s smart to cross-check multiple apps, especially for longer trips or tough terrain. This gives you a better picture of what weather you might face.

But remember, these apps aren’t magic.

Always be ready for worse conditions than predicted. Pack the right gear, including a light fleece and water-resistant raincoat, no matter what the forecast says.

FAQs

What is the most accurate weather app for mountains?

For mountain weather forecasts, Meteoblue is a top pick. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty darn good for mountainous areas.

Here’s why Meteoblue stands out:

1. It’s all about mountains and remote spots
2. You get multi-day forecasts
3. It covers the important stuff: temperature, wind, clouds, and thunderstorms

An experienced mountaineer, Andy, says:

“Meteoblue specializes in providing weather data for mountainous and remote areas. It offers multi-day forecasts for temperature, wind, cloud cover, and thunderstorm activity.”

Meteoblue covers almost every named mountain out there. It’s easy to use but also has depth. You can get a quick overview or dive into detailed 5 and 15-day Meteograms if you’re into that kind of thing.

But here’s the deal: no app is perfect everywhere. Accuracy can change based on where you are and which weather models the app uses. Want to be extra sure? Check Meteoblue against other good apps like Windy or Mountain Forecast. We talked about those earlier in this article.