GANN HILO Trading Guide
Last updated: February 22, 2026
The Gann HiLo Activator is designed to automatically detect trend direction by comparing closing prices with a Simple Moving Average (SMA) of highs and lows.
What does the indicator show?
- Activator Line: A dynamic trailing line that acts as support in an uptrend (plotted from SMA of Lows) and resistance in a downtrend (plotted from SMA of Highs).
- Colors: Changes color based on the current trend state (typically green for Buy and red for Sell).
Key Settings
- Period: The number of candles used to calculate both the SMA of Highs and the SMA of Lows. A higher value smooths the line, while a lower value makes it more reactive.
How to use Strategy Parameters (Condition Source)
Within the Strategy Tester module, you can leverage the data from this indicator to create powerful logical conditions for trade entries and exits.
1. Trend Signals
These outputs indicate the direction of the trend and points of reversal.
Trend State— Returns 1 when the trend is UP, and -1 when the trend is DOWN.Signal— Triggers specifically at the crossover point, emitting a 1 when switching to Buy and -1 when switching to Sell.Activator Line— The precise numerical value of the activator line, useful for price relationship checks.
Strategy Example: If you are looking to enter a Long position, you could add a condition: Signal == 1 or ensure the trend is established using Trend State == 1.