The thing that really grinds me about AllTrails is that they still track and give others access to users personal data, even when you pay for the “Pro” account. I expect this from free apps and websites, but payed services? Their privacy policy is both revealing and obscure at the same time. Definitely double dipping by collecting all kinds of info for marketing purposes. It’s probably their primary revenue generator.

At least Gaia lets you opt out of Google analytics tracking. Their privacy policy is a bit less slimy, but still a bit questionable.

No surveillance marketing economy opt outs, I guess. Not even when you pay their ransom.

Hi Jake!

Thanks for the feedback. Appreciated!
I agree, AllTrails has more hikes (I have a legacy subscription that is finally about to lapse this year.) , but I think the good thing about Hiking Project (besides the price!) is that the database is growing and getting better. Another tool in the trip planning kit that I only see getting better as more hikes are added. (EDIT: I also clarified that AllTrails has an app. I could see where my original wording is not too clear. 🙂 )

I have used AllTrails for several years and found it to have more content than Hiking Project. I think the rock climbing version of the app, Mountain Project, is far superior to the hiking one in my opinion.

Both the hiking sites you mentioned have a phone app. The AllTrails app is nice but I agree it is skewed to the “do this hike” audience. AllTrails is free in basic mode, but if you want access to record your hikes, download offline maps, real time weather, plan a trip, or access certain topos then you have to pay.

Price is right, too!