Are you planning to go hike in the mountains with friends? Then you have to plan in advance, especially on ways to communicate. More often, mobile phones may not be helpful because it may be out of range or out of charge, therefore, a two-way radio will be the most ideal tool for keeping in touch with your buddies. In places of mountains, two-way radios work best as it covers a wide range and needs no network to communicate with your group.

Table of the 10 Best Mountain Walkie Talkies

We recommend that you carry a walkie-talkie while mountaineering in order to keep in touch with your group and at the same time get weather alerts and be able to send signals in case of an emergency. It helps in alerting you of any severe weather and you will be able to send a signal in case of an emergency. You will also get to share the best in the surrounding, find lost friends and be able to make plans with it.


Going for mountaineering with your kids? Read a detailed review of the best kids walkie talkies here.

Top 10 Best Walkie Talkies for Mountains

1. Best Overall: Midland – GXT1000VP4

Midland walkie talkie is the perfect two-way radio for mountains that covers up to 36 miles in an open field but less in areas with obstruction. It has the best privacy features, powerful mic, channel scan and 50 GMRS for good communication. JIS4 waterproof protection ensures it is not damaged in case of water splashes. The VOX function makes it a hands-free operation. You can block other users within the same channel from eavesdropping your conversation and receive weather alerts in advance so you can be able to be rescued on time if it is severe. If an emergency occurs, you can press the SOS siren and you will be rescued on time. The battery can last for 11 hours and be sure you will have a good time in the mountains. Make a direct one call to one member in the group or the whole group with this radio. Once you have scanned through the channels, you can lock the keypad to prevent any unnecessary changes.  You can use it during the day or at night since the backlit display is bright for readability. It comes with 2 radios, belt clips, mic headsets, rechargeable battery packs, AC and DC adapters, desktop charger and user manual.

Specifications:

✅ SOS siren

✅ 142 privacy codes

✅ 9 hands-free levels

✅ 50 GMRS and 28 extra channels

✅ 3-year warranty

✅ Weighs 4.8 ounces

✅ Requires 8 AAA batteries

What we loved

😃 You can communicate privately by using the 142 privacy codes

😃 Its microphone is powerful so you can whisper

😃 The battery can last for 8 or 10 hours

😃 Weather emergency alerts

😃 Covers up to 36 miles

😃 Comes with 2 chargers and 2 headsets

What we didn’t like

☹ Rechargeable batteries have a flaws design thus wears faster

2. Most powerful: Backcountry 

This two-way radio provides good range, clear voice transmission, and long battery life. It is, therefore, the perfect radio for backcountry adventures since communication between you and your buddies will be clear. In case you separate from the rest of the group and you get lost then this radio will help you to be found within a short time. You can also be able to communicate plans and share the observation with the entire group. It is easy to use and also set up with great customer service. Since the radio’s smart mic is located on the fingertips, you will not need to remove it fro your pack or pocket to make changes. Its rechargeable battery can last for long. This radio is waterproof so that you can still communicate in case the rains pour when you are still in the mountains. In noisy places, the volume is loud enough so you can hear the other person clearly.

Specifications:

✅ 22 FRS GMRS channels

✅ 121 extra channels

✅ Earphone jack

✅ Smart mic for push -to talk

What we loved

😃 Waterproof

😃 Easy to set up and use

😃 Better range coverage

😃 More than 18 hours of usage when a battery is fully charged

😃 Durable

😃 Clear sound transmission

😃 Glove-friendly

What we didn’t like

☹ The channels may change if the dial is bumped

☹ Microphone comes unplugged

☹ Make sure to be precise when pressing the buttons because if you don’t then your message will not be delivered

3. Best Deal: Two Way Radio Samcom (6 Packs)

Planning to go on an adventure with friends on the mountain and wondering what will be the best radio for communication? Look no more because this is best for you. It is lightweight and comes with earpieces and belt clips. This radio is easy to charge, set up and use. You will not need to carry your phone for communication since it can lose signal or go off too soon. Sound transmitted is crystal clear so you can keep in touch with your buddies all through in case you take different paths. Once charged, the battery lasts for long so you can have a memorable adventure with friends. The customer services are excellent. It has a group talk function so that you can incorporate as many people as you can. You can be able to have a private talk with one of the members without alerting the whole group. This radio conveys clear audio even in noisy places by suppressing background noise. It is weather resistant and saves power. Perfect for emergency calls and making announcements.

Specifications:

✅ 20 channels

✅ Squelch level

✅ 3000mAh Li-ion battery

✅ 3W power

✅ Requires 6 Lithium polymer batteries

✅ 400-470MHz frequency

What we loved

😃 Group talk function

😃 Clear sound transmission

😃 VOX function for hands-free operation

😃 Keyboard lock

😃 Portable with belt clip

😃 Large LCD display

4. Cheap walkie-talkie: Midland – LXT630VP3

This two way radio is durable and portable making it perfect for mountain adventures. Its shell is made of rubber for durability. It has 36 FRS, channel scan and covers a range of 36 miles in areas with no obstruction but less than that if there is any obstruction such as trees. This radio is easy to use, reliable, easy to program and has the best battery life. With the 121 privacy codes, you can lock other channels users from eavesdropping your conversation. NOAA weather scan and alert enables you to receive weather alerts in advance so you can call for help if severe. You can operate it with your hands-free for use of VOX function. It comes with an AC adapter, desktop charger, belt clips, rechargeable battery packs and uses manual.

Specifications:

✅36 Channels

✅ 121 privacy codes

✅ 30 miles range

✅ 3 eVOX hands-free operation levels

✅ 3-year warranty

✅ Weighs 1 pound

✅ Requires 2 AAA batteries

What we loved

😃 Small and lightweight

😃 Long battery life

😃 Crystal clear sound transmission

😃 VOX hands-free operation

😃 5 call alerts

😃 Privacy codes for private communication

😃 Advance weather alerts by NOAA channels

😃 Covers up to 30-mile range

😃 Water resistant

What we did not like

☹ Breaks if dropped in water

☹ No memory requiring reprogramming of settings

☹ Scanning of channels may take long

5. Best two-way radio under $200: Retevis H-777S (10 Pack)

Retevis H-777S radio covers up to 2.5 miles and is compatible with GMRS or FRS therefore perfect for mountains. It does not require any license to operate. This radio covers a wide range for a good reception and excellent performance. VOX and scrambler ensure hands-free operation, thus, automatic transmission upon speaking and secured and private chats while eradicating interference due to overlap in the same channel. The PTT earpieces are of a high quality to ensure clear conversations with friends even in noisy places. You can charge it from your car, computer or mobile power. It comes with earbuds with an ergonomic design to block background noise and for comfortable wearing. The remote clip enables you to clip it to your collar or near your mouth for a clear sound transmission. It is durable and lightweight so you can use it for long. This radio comes with belt clips, slings, USB chargers, and user manuals.

Specifications:

✅ 1000mAh battery capacity

✅ 400-470MHz frequency range

✅ battery saver and scan function

✅ 16 channels, 168 DCS and 40 CTCSS

✅ VOX function

✅ Low battery alert

✅ PC programmable

What we loved

😃 VOX function

😃 License-free

😃 Crystal clear sound

😃 Easy to use

😃 Lightweight

😃 Compatible with GMRS or FRS

😃 C-type earpiece

What we didn’t like

☹ Nothing in specific

6. Best for long range: Motorola MR350R 35-Mile Range 

Motorola being one of the well-known brands, they produce the best two-way radios for mountains.  This is a GMRS/FRS two way radio with 22 channels and covers up to 35 miles, hence, perfect for mountain adventures. It is rugged and lightweight and has large buttons for operation with gloves on. The  NOAA weather channels alert you of severe weather in advance so you can evacuate or call for help on time. It has a built-in flashlight that makes it possible to see at night and VOX function for hands-free operation. You can hold a private conversation with the 121 privacy codes to prevent eavesdroppers or other users within the same channel from hearing your conversation. It has an emergency alert button to enable you to call for help in case you are in danger. This radio comes with 2 belt clips, emergency checklist, rechargeable battery pack, user manual, and 2 radios.

Specifications:

✅ 22 channels

✅ 121 privacy codes

✅ 35 Miles coverage

✅ Requires 3 AA batteries

✅ Weighs 5.1 ounces

What we loved

😃 It features 20 call tones you can choose from

😃 7 NOAA channels and extra 11 weather channels for weather alerts

😃 22 channels and 121 privacy codes ensure private chats

😃 Covers up to 35 miles in areas with no obstructions

😃 iVOX  technology for hands-free operation

😃 Withstands dust and condensation

😃 Belt clip makes it portable

😃 Has a built-in flashlight, PTT for boosting power and dual power

What we did not like

☹ Not waterproof

Read a comprehensive review of the best long range two-way radio on the market here.

7. Best walkie talkie under $50: Radioddity GA-5S 

If you are planning to go hiking in the mountains or mountain climbing, then this top-rated two-way radio will be perfect for you and your buddies since it is powerful and covers a large area. GA-55 covers up to 5.5 miles in an open field and less if there are any obstructions. When sunny or dark, you can comfortably read it since the keypad is very bright. This radio can slip into and out of your pants or shirt pockets with no difficulties. It has 3 power settings that make it cover a long range depending on your need. It has a high power of 7 watts, medium 5 watts and low power of 1 watt. Its numeric keypad is large and bright so you can easily read it. The design of the speaker is round and has 1W for loud sound. It comes with a belt clip, earpiece, charging cradle, wrist strap, high antenna, and a user manual. Once you have set the channel, you can lock the keypad to prevent any accidental changes.

Specifications:

✅ 128 memory channels

✅ 50 CTCSS and 105 CDCSS

✅ 1800mAh Li-ion battery

✅ 400-520 MHz frequency range

✅ Scanner

What we loved

😃 Compact

😃 Rugged

😃 Small and lightweight

😃 Easy to program

😃 Alarm function and Squelch function

😃 Crossband reception

What we did not like

☹ Requires a big battery

☹ Has no auto repeater but it can be programmed

☹ Might be hard to program by using the keypad

8. Best two way radio under $100: Cobra MR HH450

This radio features an advanced GMRS scan and VHF which enables you to scan channels, CTCSS privacy codes, DCS codes or memory locations for the location of ongoing conversations. It has high radio ruggedness, reliability, and quality. Cobra MR HH450 has GMRS channel dual functionality and rewind-say-again for perfect communication with friends in the mountains. It is able to burp, thus, removing water from the speaker grill while improving performance by the speaker. The VibrAlert relays silent alert in case of incoming calls. It is able to scan the weather and alert you of severe weather. In case of severe weather threat, it will alert you in time to evacuate. Your conversations will be kept private with the 1815 private GMRS combinations. Cobra comes with a rapid charger, NOAA weather radio, a microphone for canceling noise, BURP, and Lithium-ion battery.

Specifications:

✅ 1815 GMRS privacy combination

✅ Requires 1 Lithium battery

✅ Weighs 9.6 ounces

What we loved

😃 Rewind-say-again function for replaying missed calls

😃 S.A.M.E with weather alert

😃 High power GMRS and 6 watt VHF

😃 Waterproof

😃 Clear sound

9. Best Two-way radio under $30: BaoFeng BF-888S 

This a 2W programmable two way radio with 16 channels. A built-in flashlight enables you to see clearly at night and an emergency alarm so that you can call for help if you are in danger. BaoFeng provides. It has a battery saver and low battery alarm to enable you to charge on time or replace it. It provides a good range and has a crystal clear sound transmission, therefore, perfect for adventures in the mountains. They can be programmed to be compatible with other GMRS/FRS radios. It has a good battery life and covers quite a range so you can communicate with friends if you part ways in the mountains. It comes with 2 radios, belt clips, lanyards, chargers, and rechargeable batteries.

Specifications:

✅ 16 Channels

✅ 50 CTCSS and 105 CDCSS

✅ 400-520 UHF frequency range

✅ 400-470 MHz frequency mode

✅ 1500MAh Li-ion battery capacity

✅ Covers up to 3 km

✅ Requires 1 Lithium-ion battery

What we loved

😃 Emergency alarm

😃 Clear sound

😃 It is programmable

😃 Low voltage alert

😃 Flashlight and battery saver

😃cIntelligent charging

😃 VOX function

😃 Time-out timer

😃 Built-in flashlight

What we did not like

☹ Programming process may be hard

☹ No automatic squelch sound

10. Best waterproof walkie talkie: Motorola T605 Waterproof (6 PACK)

If you’re looking for a waterproof walkie talkie that would serve you even in winter or fog, then this is the best walkie talkie on the market.

The Motorola is fully waterproof and it is long range covering up to 35-mile range. The walkie-talkie will keep you connected and shielded during severe outdoor events. For outdoor activities, the gadget has LED light and a flashlight. The walkie-talkie has an Eco Smart feature that permits it to utilize less power when it’s idle or not in use.

Specifications:

✅ Waterproof

✅ Rugged design

✅ Privacy code

✅ 6 radio pack

What we loved

😃 Comes with a user guide

😃 Privacy code

😃 Long range

😃 Eco-smart feature

😃 Long battery life

😃 Easy to charge and use

😃 LED flashlight

😃 NOAA weather alert

What we didn’t like

☹ Pricey

Do you own a business? A pub, school, or any other trade that you have employed numerous staffs? You can cut on their communication expenses by buying them business walkie talkies.

Features to consider when buying the best walkie talkie for mountains

☑ Range

The range in a walkie-talkie is an important factor to consider when buying the gadget. If you want to communicate with a person who is far away, buy a long range walkie talkie. There are those that can cover up to 10 km if there is no building or any other form of obstructions.

☑ Power

A radio with high wattage means that the power is high hence a better range coverage. It is therefore crucial that your radio has a high range or is able to use GMRS channels for operation. Transmitting it to FRS channels leads to a reduction in the watt to half.

☑ Batteries

Most two way radios use AA or AAA batteries or regular alkaline batteries and others comes with rechargeable packs. We recommend that you purchase a radio that will use both. Rechargeable batteries save money but lose charge within a short time in cold climates. A regular battery, in this case, will be the best.

☑ Antenna

Regardless of the brand, most two way radios come with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes to aid in reducing interference in the channel, especially in crowded places. The CTCSS and CDCSS are the privacy codes to enable you to use the same channel with others and be able to have a private communication.

☑ VOX function

This transmits a hands-free radio so that whenever you speak, the radio picks it and immediately transmits it. Your hands will also be free and you won’t have to press it as it automatically picks up.

☑ Noise filter

In crowded places, it is important that your radio has a noise filter to make sure that communication is clear and the signal is improved.

☑ Weather alert

When going to hike in the mountains, it is important that your radio has NOAA weather stations to update you of the weather in advance. This will enable you to plan and call for help when the weather is going to be severe.

☑ GPS

Radios with GPS helps you find your way as well as communicate with your group. You can transmit your location to your buddies, know where they are and be able to be located in case of danger, thus, perfect to keep you safe.

☑ Emergency features

It is very important that the radio you get have emergency features so that you can send a signal when there is a danger so that you can be rescued on time.

For those who love hunting, do not miss on this article on the top-rated hunting walkie-talkies.

Conclusion

When going out with friends to the mountains for exploration, we recommend that you get yourself a two way radio. It is the best compared to a mobile phone since the signal is strong in a large area, the battery lasts for long hours and you can connect many people so that you can be able to chat as a group. Make sure that the two way radio you pick will be ideal for the mountains, withstand harsh weather conditions and be powerful. The two way radios we reviewed above are among the best in the market today and picking one of them will make your adventure memorable.