Well long overdue, I finally got around to updating my GPS and TOPO Information Page to reflect what I’m actually doing when preparing maps, and moving GPS data around. While I’m sure some of the information will seem convoluted, it is what has been working for me. I have included some information and links about some various freeware applications and data that can make your outdoor life with a GPS as little easier and cheaper.
Before you go digging into the geekery, remember GPS units are great as they help us keep track of where we are going and give many of us the confidence to venture out into areas we would otherwise never go without a guide. I am no fan of folks who will blindly upload a track into thier GPS, strap it to the handlebar and go follow the arrows on the screen. We all need to remember that we are only one set of dead batteries or a crash away from not having that gadget available to us. It is not a matter of if, but rather when and where it is going to fail.
Will you know what “point” you are at when that occurs? A compass, map and some orienteering skills will serve you well at that point.
Now go get lost! (It is a lot of fun)