Offline navigation built for outdoor routes
OruxMaps is an offline maps and GPS navigation app designed for outdoor use, especially for hiking, cycling, trail runs, and long walks away from reliable signal. It centers on local map files and GPS tracking, so navigation doesn’t fall apart the moment mobile data drops. You can load downloaded maps, follow a planned route, and record your activity for later review, which makes it useful for both exploration and repeatable training routes.
This is a power-user tool built for people who like control. Strong GPX routes import and export, waypoint tools, and flexible map support are the big wins, especially if you plan routes elsewhere and bring them into the app. The trade-off is friction up front. The interface can feel crowded, settings can be dense, and offline setup often takes a bit of hands-on work before the app feels effortless on the trail.
OruxMaps works as an online and offline map viewer, letting you use live map sources when you have data and switch to downloaded files when you do not. Map support is a major focus, with compatibility for multiple formats, including tile packages and geo-referenced maps like GeoPDF and GeoTIFF. You can also layer tracks and waypoints on top of maps, which helps when you navigate by reference points.
What you can do with OruxMaps
Route handling is another strength. You can record GPS activities, create and manage waypoints, and keep tracks organized inside the app with stats like distance and elevation. Imports and exports cover common formats such as GPX and KML, so it’s easier to plan a route elsewhere, follow it on the trail, then share the finished track with other mapping tools. For navigation, you can follow a loaded track with on-screen guidance and a compass-style view. OruxMaps can also pair with some external GPS receivers over Bluetooth.
The trade-off is complexity. OruxMaps packs in layers, data screens, and settings that take time to learn, especially if you only want basic guidance. Offline use also asks for manual work: downloading maps, choosing storage locations, and keeping files tidy. The interface can feel busy on a small screen, and polishing the setup often takes a few sessions before everything clicks for everyday use.
A strong fit for map tinkerers
OruxMaps fits hikers and riders who want deep control over offline navigation and route files, not a one-tap experience. It shines when you bring your own maps and tracks and enjoy fine-tuning displays. People who want automatic setup and a simpler interface can bounce off the learning curve and the hands-on map workflow at first.
Pros
- Strong offline maps support with flexible map formats
- Reliable GPX routes import and export plus waypoint tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve with dense menus
- Manual map downloads and file organization can take time
