Top Best GoPro Camera For Hiking 2022

best gopro camera for hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular activities for people who love the outdoors. However, many hikers refuse the idea of carrying heavy camera equipment with them on their travels. Fortunately, several lightweight and compact cameras are available that offer high-quality results without the need to lug around lots of extra weight.

The best GoPro camera for hiking will have certain features that make it ideal for this activity, including being waterproof, shockproof, and durable so you can take it anywhere your adventure may lead you. This article will explore some of these features in more detail and present some other considerations when choosing a hiking camera so that you’re able to find what’s suitable for your needs.

Complete Buying Guide for GoPro Camera

Waterproof

A hiking camera must be waterproof, so it doesn’t break when you’re out in wet conditions, such as rain or snow. It can become a critical requirement if the weather worsens and results in potential hypothermia. It would be best to use your camera to signal for help or take shelter once night falls. There are additional top-notch Waterproof camera for hiking  to choose from, including those in Action camera, rugged camera,, etc.

Shockproof

Camcorders that aren’t shockproof will likely cease working if dropped from a height of just 1 meter onto a hard surface. They are also at risk of damage due to being exposed to vibrations during car, plane, train, or boat transport.

Durable

The durability requirements depend on the environment where you plan on taking your camera. Suppose you’re going to be hiking in the Alps during winter. In that case, a shockproof and waterproof camera may not be sufficient. You’ll need something that can stand up to shallow temperatures as well as be watertight.

Wide-angle lenses

A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing your surroundings so you can get a better idea of exactly where you are. It will also enable hikers who have been out on their journey longer than expected or have gotten lost to use the camcorder’s GPS feature to quickly determine their exact location if they go into record mode while it’s still activated.

Image stabilization

An image stabilizer makes videos appear smoother when recording from a hand-held camcorder. It is essential for hikers who intend to record themselves during their hike to share the clip with others who weren’t able to come along on their travels.

Viewfinder

The viewfinder feature allows you to see what the camcorder is recording without looking at the screen, which makes it ideal if you are hiking and need both hands free.

GPS

Useful for those times when you’ve been out hiking longer than anticipated and want a way of finding your location quickly, as well as marking locations where particularly beautiful or interesting scenes were recorded.

Accessories

Finally, make sure that any extras such as battery chargers and memory cards are compatible with the camera you’re considering buying, so you don’t need to spend more money buying replacements in the future.

Types of the best GoPro camera for hiking:

The right hiking camera for you will depend on your particular needs and preferences. Therefore, rather than providing a list of all models available, we’ll look at some of the features each type should have so you can find something that matches your requirements and budget.

Standard Hiking Camera

These are lightweight but durable cameras that offer the ability to capture still images and video footage. They’re ideal for hikers who need something simple. They can slip into a pocket or clip onto their backpack without adding weight, which is helpful if you find yourself hiking long distances or climbing steep slopes. More great cameras with light weight are still accessible for hiking, like those in the DSLR camera, rugged camera, etc

Camcorder + Video Camera

The added video capability means that you can capture videos of yourself and others hiking or any interesting things you see along the way. This type is ideal for hikers who want to add their commentary to clips they record so they can share them with other people on social media.

Camcorder + GPS Tracker

These models include a GPS tracker that lets you quickly find the camera’s exact location if you become lost during your hike. It is essential for hiking in areas where visibility can be low due to bad weather, so you don’t need to wander around aimlessly if conditions change unexpectedly and leave you unable to see where you’re going or determine your exact location.

Action Camera

These are similar to standard hiking cameras, except they’re specifically designed to stand up to the harsh conditions you can encounter on an adventure holiday. They’re waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, which is important if you plan on taking them along rock climbing or for any other outdoor activity that could put them at risk of damage.

Travel Camera

Hikers who originally bought a standard or camcorder camera but have found they want something more robust should consider investing in a travel camera. They’re similar to action cameras but are optimized to stand up to bad weather and other elements. Not only that, but many models also come with a viewfinder, which makes them ideal for hikers who don’t want to constantly be checking their camera screen for what it’s currently recording.

Camcorder + Viewfinder

For those times when you need both hands free and aren’t worried about being able to see the screen while hiking, this type should be your go-to. The Viewfinder lets you keep both hands on the camera and allows for more accurate operation during recording. It can be beneficial if your camera gets damaged and the screen stops working, but the camcorder itself is still functional.

Camcorder + Wireless Microphone

It is an essential feature for vloggers who like to post videos of themselves hiking and those who want to focus more on capturing the sound and atmosphere around them during their day trip. Most models also offer built-in image stabilization to reduce camera shake and blurriness in your footage, which is essential if you’re recording while moving.

Video + Time Lapse

The addition of a time-lapse mode means that you can set your camera to automatically take photos at specific intervals, which makes it easy to create an editable video from the resulting photos. This type is perfect for hikers who want to create short videos and share them with other people on social media.

Mirrorless

When you don’t want to carry a heavy backpack, this type of camera is ideal. Not only is it light and compact, but the mirrorless design means that it also has a much higher quality sensor than most standard or action cameras.

Travel Camera + Viewfinder

Sometimes it’s nice to be able to see absolutely what your camera is capturing in real-time, so why not invest in a travel camera with an electronic viewfinder? These are the ultimate mix of convenience and image quality, especially if you’re planning on hiking during dawn or dusk when visibility can be below.

DSLR

This type is the ideal pick for hikers who want to capture clear, high-quality images of every step along their journey. While they’re heavier and bulkier than other models, there’s no better way to preserve memories of your hike in its most accurate form.

Travel Camera + Wireless Microphone

For serious vloggers and bloggers who want to record their hikes in high quality without the need for a backpack, this type is perfect. They’re small and light enough to fit into your pocket. Still, They offer pro-level features like interchangeable lenses and high-resolution sensors that will make your videos look great.

Digital SLR

These types of cameras offer the highest quality image sensors available. Some even allow you to change lenses to expand your shooting capabilities for all kinds of different scenes. However, they’re also the heaviest type on this list due to their glass lens attachments and metal construction. It makes them best suited for hikers who want the best possible images of their hike.

Travel Camera + Time Lapse

The addition of a time-lapse mode means that you can set your camera to automatically take photos at specific intervals, which makes it easy to create an editable video from the resulting images. This type is perfect for hikers who want to create short videos and share them with other people on social media.

Digital SLR + Viewfinder

Sometimes it’s nice to be able to see absolutely what your camera is capturing in real-time, so why not invest in a digital SLR with an electronic viewfinder? These are the ultimate mix of convenience and image quality, especially if you’re planning on hiking during dawn or dusk when visibility can be below.

Top 10 Best GoPro Camera for hiking

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In this article, I’m going to go through the best 10 GoPro cameras for hiking. These are the best cameras that will help you capture some amazing footage while you are hiking.

So if you are planning to buy a GoPro for hiking, then read on…

1. Hero 6

The latest model in GoPro’s trendy line of action cameras. The Hero 6 is not only waterproof down to 33ft (10m), but it also comes with a host of new features that make it ideal for hikers. Whether you’re into mountain climbing or want to capture your day trips while they’re happening, the new ultra-wide lens captures more of the area around you. At the same time, voice control enables hands-free operation so you can focus on what’s important at the time.

Pros
  • Fast operation,

  • Waterproof to 10m

  • Great audio quality

Cons
  • The touchscreen isn’t as responsive as some competitors

2. RX100 VI

The latest version of Sony’s smallest and most advanced camera features a sizeable one-inch image sensor that not only ensures high-quality photos. But it also comes with a built-in viewfinder so you can line up your shots without having to worry about glare from the sun. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use. At the same time, the camcorder features 4K resolution video recording so you can capture beautiful stills as well as high-quality footage.

Pros
  • Large 1″ image sensor

  • 4K video at 30fps

  • Great for both stills and videos

Cons
  • Not waterproof

  • Not built for action

  • Significant aberration in the corner of wide shots

3. RX100 V

Another compact marvel from Sony, the RX100 V, is excellent for hikers who want to focus more on capturing beautiful scenery without carrying too much equipment with them. Boasting a high-quality 1″ type sensor and 4K video recording, there’s not much this camcorder can’t do as far as image capture is concerned. Plus, it has a built-in viewfinder, so you never have to worry about glare ruining your shot.

Pros
  • 4K video at 30fps

  • Fast f1.8 – 2.8 lens

  • Built-in Viewfinder

Cons
  • Fixed wide-angle lens

  • Touchscreen doesn’t always respond well to touch input

  • Only 8x optical zoom is on offer

4. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II

A great choice for hikers looking for a lightweight camera that’s easy to take with them on hikes. The G7 X Mark II offers everything you could need to capture beautiful scenery along the way. It boasts an intelligent 1″ type sensor that performs well in low light and 20.1 megapixels for crystal clear shots. There’s no reason why this capable camera should be left behind on your next hike.

Pros
  • Compact size

  • Bright f/1.8 – 2.8 lens

  • Great image and video quality

Cons
  • No viewfinder

  • Short battery life

  • Touchscreen responsiveness isn’t always reliable

5. Panasonic Lumix FZ1000

An excellent option for hikers who prefer a more ‘traditional’ camera, the FZ1000 is a superzoom compact that offers a lot of functionality in a small package. It’s got a fast f/2.8 – 5.9 lens and 20MP 1″ sensor to capture beautiful photos, as well as 4K video recording for when you want to capture scenic videos.

Pros
  • Electronic Viewfinder

  • 4K video

  • Great images and video quality

Cons
  • Not waterproof

  • The touchscreen isn’t very responsive to touch input

  • No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity

6. Panasonic Lumix GH5S

If you’re looking for a camera that can cover all the bases, look no further than the Lumix GH5S. Not only is this smart mirrorless camera fully capable of recording high-quality 4K video and taking beautiful photos. But it also comes with an impressive 10.2MP Micro Four Thirds sensor to capture more detail in low light.

Pros
  • 10MP Micro Four Thirds sensor

  • 4K video

  • Robust build quality

Cons
  • Bulky and heavy for a mirrorless camera

  • Low battery life when in 4K mode

  • Autofocus isn’t as fast or reliable as some of its competitors

7. Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI

Suppose you’re after a lightweight and compact camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality. In that case, the RX100 VI is an ideal solution for hikers looking to capture fantastic images while out in the wild. It’s got everything you could need from a compact camcorder: large 1″ type sensor, high-quality zoom lens, electronic Viewfinder, 4K video recording capabilities…

Pros
  • 4K video at 30fps

  • Large 1″ type sensor

  • Built-in Viewfinder

Cons
  • Slow burst mode performance

  • No touchscreen functionality or Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity

8. Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 IS

Suppose you’re looking for a truly pocketable camera that can deliver fantastic results regardless of the conditions. In that case, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better than the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 IS. It’s got everything you could need from an everyday camera: built-in Viewfinder, 24mm wide-angle lens, 20.0MP sensor.

Pros
  • Sturdy build quality

  • 20.0MP sensor

  • Wide-angle lens

  • Built-in Viewfinder

Cons
  • No touchscreen functionality

  • Lack of 4K video recording capabilities

9. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS

An ideal option for hikers who want a powerful point-and-shoot camera they can slip into their pocket. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is full of features to make your life easier on the trail. Boasting a versatile 40x optical zoom lens and 20.3MP sensor, this camera will help you capture stunning shots from a distance, as well as record impressive 4K video.

Pros
  • Versatile 40x optical zoom lens

  • 20.3MP sensor

  • 4K video recording capabilities

Cons
  • Touchscreen functionality isn’t reliable

  • Lack of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity

10. Nikon COOLPIX B500

Not only does the Nikon Coolpix B500 have a whopping 40x optical zoom lens, but it also comes with a versatile LED light and 20.0MP sensor. To ensure you get a good shot no matter what your subject may be. Video enthusiasts will appreciate its 4K video recording capabilities too.

Pros
  • Versatile 40x optical zoom lens

  • 20.0MP sensor

  • 4K video recording capabilities

Cons
  • Quite chunky and heavy

  • Lack of touchscreen functionality

Conclusion:

Hiking is one of the most popular activities for people who love the outdoors. However, many hikers are refuse the idea of carrying heavy camera equipment with them on their travels. Fortunately, several lightweight and compact cameras are available that offer high-quality results without the need to lug around lots of extra weight.

Suppose you’re looking for a small and light option that won’t leave your hand feeling cramped after an hour or two of use. In that case, we recommend checking out any one of these ten best hiking cameras reviewed here today! From rugged point-and-shoot options to sleek mirrorless models with powerful zoom lenses, all ten will help you capture stunning shots from a distance while still being able to take amazing photos up close too.