Topo maps??

I think topos are a lot of fun. Kids these days have to have everything on thier cell phones... or it doesn't exist. Can't beat a map and compass!!
 
I love spreading out a topo and checking every detail, gives me a big picture of the area I intend to visit, don't know what I'd do without them.
 
DaleW said:
I wouldn't dream of heading out with out a map and a sighting compass, and a small back-up compass.

I own a couple GPS units and I think they are great tools and a lot of fun. But if you are in a canyon or under heavy foliage, drop it, run out of batteries, or otherwise have it malfunction, y'all better have a map and compass. Learning to use a compass, triangulate your position and reverse bearings for your return trip are basic skills for foot travel.

I like to do a fly over of my hike with Google Earth and I have a National Geographic topo collection of my home state. Having some basic knowledge of the area can really help you stay oriented.

And that is the whole point. If you check your map as you go, the chances of getting lost are reduced. I enjoy the whole process anyway.

It's interesting to note that there are many threads hear on bushcraft skills and cutting tools, but this is one of the few asking about navigation. The first rule of survival is not getting in a survival situation and not getting lost is on the top of my list.
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Survival Gospel in my opinion.



dnm said:
I have electronic versions of the entire state and print out copies of proposed routes before I head into the woods. I always carry maps and a compass. But, I will freely admit that I also really like my GPS. I use a Garmin GPSMap 60CSx and it has a 1:24000 base map of the entire state. For marking a waypoint, or conducting a quick check of my perceived location, it can't be beat. An additional benefit is that my 12 year old son is into geocaching and this is a great way for the two of us to get outdoors and bond doing something we both enjoy.
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I think that's great! I think having a GPS is an excellent idea as long as it doesn't take the place of maps and compasses. I have a Garmin E-Trex that I am nowhere near mastering yet, I have not had the time to really get into Geocaching but that is something I have been wanting to do with Wife and Son.
 
I get most of my maps online from my friends who walk the trails using GPS and then use software to put the trails and important points on top of the topo.

This is what GPS can do for you. The Bushwhack trails are in purple. The faucets indicate water, the tents camping spots, the camera icons scenic views

roaringplainsmapiw4.jpg
 
hlee said:
I use www.mytopo.com for custom topo maps.
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Me too. It is only around $15 for the maps I print, depending on options, printed on nice paper with water proof ink. You pick your scale, map size and you get to pick your exact area. Its free to play with and get a preview of what your map.
 
Years in the Cartography industry has taught me one very important lesson: all maps/geospatial data have flaws. One needs a base understanding of the data gained through experience of use.

for trip planning: topo
backpacking: topo
coastal surveying: nautical charts, & GPS

GPS is fine, but always have a map too. I don't own a GPS and probably won't any time soon. Kind of a nice to have, but not essential.
 
I tried to find the exact text... but couldn't....

Garmin has a warning on their GPS that basically says that you should NOT rely on their device as your primary source of navigation.

GPS are cool, I have one.

But, they are not sufficient. And they cannot do everything a map and compass does....

Learn map and compass.

And then, maybe you want to carry a GPS as well, feel free.

M
 
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