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5 best hiking cameras for capturing epic moments (updated february 16 2025)

By Alex Trekker

Published: 16 Feb 2025

hiker taking a picture with a camera on a mountain trail | Image: Supplied

1. GoPro HERO11 Black: The Action Cam King

Let's face it, GoPros are practically synonymous with action cams. This little powerhouse is ridiculously durable, waterproof (seriously, I've accidentally dunked mine more times than I care to admit), and capable of shooting stunning 5.3K video. Its hyper-smooth stabilization is a lifesaver on those bumpy trails, ensuring your footage is as steady as a rock. Plus, the time-lapse feature is perfect for capturing those epic sunset views. A definite plus for capturing every moment.

GoPro HERO11 Black on a hiking stick | Image: Supplied

2. Sony Alpha 6000: The All-Around Performer

If you're looking for something a bit more versatile, the Sony Alpha 6000 is a fantastic choice. It's lightweight, compact, and packs a serious punch in terms of image quality. It boasts a fast autofocus system that's great for capturing those fleeting moments of wildlife or, you know, that funny face your hiking buddy makes when they almost trip over a root. The image stabilization isn't quite as good as the GoPro's, but it's still pretty decent for a camera its size.

Sony Alpha 6000 on a hiking backpack | Image: Supplied

3. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS: The Zoom Master

Need to capture that majestic mountain range from miles away? Then the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is your camera. This compact camera boasts a monstrous 40x optical zoom, meaning you can get incredibly close to distant subjects without sacrificing image quality. It's ideal for capturing wildlife shots and epic landscapes. So if you're all about those zoom shots, this is your choice!

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS capturing a mountain landscape | Image: Supplied

4. Fujifilm X100V: The Retro-Chic Choice

Okay, I'll admit it, I have a bit of a soft spot for this camera. The Fujifilm X100V is absolutely gorgeous, with its retro design and outstanding image quality. It's not as rugged as the GoPro, but it's still fairly durable and produces photos with a classic, film-like look that's perfect for creating memories to last a lifetime. It’s more expensive, but worth it if you care about a certain kind of image.

Fujifilm X100V taking a picture of flowers | Image: Supplied

5. Olympus Tough TG-6: The Indestructible Beast

This camera is built like a tank. Seriously, it's waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and crushproof. I've even dropped mine into a river once (don't ask), and it still works perfectly. It's not the highest-resolution camera on the list, but its ruggedness makes it a top choice for those hikes where you're not exactly worried about delicate equipment. Perfect for those who need that durability

Olympus Tough TG-6 underwater | Image: Supplied

Choosing Your Perfect Hiking Camera

So, there you have it—my top 5 picks for hiking cameras. But which one is right for you? Consider your needs and priorities. Do you need insane stabilization? Do you prioritize zoom capabilities? Or maybe you just want something beautiful and lightweight. Think about what kind of photos you want to capture and what features are most important. Oh, and don't forget to pack extra batteries and memory cards! You don't want to run out of juice mid-hike!

Happy Hiking, Fellow Adventurers!

I hope this helps you find the perfect camera to document your next great outdoor adventure. And remember, the best camera is the one you'll actually take with you—so choose something that you'll love using. Now, get out there and capture some amazing memories! Happy trails!