onX Backcountry

At a glance

• Editor score
  7.7 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan · 7-day trial
• Best for
  Backcountry users needing offline terrain tools
• Free plan
  Yes
• Offline map downloads
  Yes
• Facts checked
  3 Oct 2026

• Where it wins

  • Downloads maps for GPS use without cell service
  • Premium adds 3D terrain, slope angles, and avalanche analysis
  • Routes can snap to trails; Tracker records and retraces trips

• Where it doesn't

  • Basic is limited to one offline map
  • Unlimited offline maps and custom routes require Premium
  • Turn-by-turn navigation is not a listed feature

Our verdict on onX Backcountry

For hikers, backpackers, skiers, mountain bikers, and climbers, onX Backcountry combines mapping, route planning, and trip tracking with outdoor-specific terrain information. Its web, iOS, and Android availability gives users more than a phone-only option, while downloaded map areas and GPS location support trips beyond cell coverage. Basemaps include topographic, satellite, and hybrid views; users can also add and share waypoints, lines, tracks, and map areas.

The tier differences center on offline coverage and planning depth. Basic is free and includes one offline map, trip tracking, limited waypoints, and the three basemap types. Premium adds unlimited offline maps, custom route building, 3D maps, trail condition reports, and avalanche terrain analysis. Elite includes Premium features plus private land boundaries and landowner names, recent imagery, and outdoor gear discounts. The supplied starting price is a first-year offer, not a standard ongoing rate: the pricing page shows $12 for Premium and $40 for Elite for the first year. A seven-day free trial is also listed. Basic may suit occasional outings; the paid tiers are more relevant when multiple offline areas or advanced planning tools matter.

The product's clearest distinction is its combination of offline GPS maps with terrain and snow-focused information, including slope-angle details, avalanche forecasts, snow conditions, trail reports, and closures. That makes it a fit for backcountry users who plan around terrain and conditions rather than simply following a route. There is a meaningful limit for buyers seeking conventional navigation: turn-by-turn directions are not established as a feature. Choose onX Backcountry for offline mapping and outdoor planning; consider another option if turn-by-turn guidance is essential or if the Basic map limit is too restrictive.

onX Backcountry pricing

All 3 onX Backcountry plans and prices →

onX Backcountry fact sheet

Alternatives to onX Backcountry

• AMApple MapsA free Apple navigation app with offline maps and directions in supported areas.9.3
• OOsmAndDetailed offline mapping with navigation for road trips and outdoor routes.9.2
• KKomootOutdoor route planning with activity-specific guidance and offline maps.9.1

See all onX Backcountry alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

onX Backcountry is listed in our Offline Maps Apps directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Guides on offline maps apps

• Travel Smart: The 7 Best Offline Map Apps to Stay on Track AnywhereAug 2026
• Best Offline Map Apps for iPhone and iPadAug 2026

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 3 Oct 2026 · How we research and update