[pct-l] GPS

[Stephen Clark]

If we have to use the technology I agree with a map and a smart phone
idea... The maps app on mine shows the trail in a detailed line (like a
road) and all you need is a clear area to get a satellite signal. Compare
the locator spot on your phone with your trail map to find your exact
location at any time (nearly any time*) in any section. Then be sure you
have something like a  SPOT in case of emergencies when you can't get a
phone signal.

*there have been one or two occasions that I could not get a signal that
showed the trail.


On Tue, Apr 9, 2013 at 5:03 PM, 100marathons.org <help at 100marathons.org>wrote:

> Or split the difference and take a map/compass and use the Halfmile PCT app
> for iPhone if you're ever feeling shaky.  You'll probably already be
> carrying your phone and you don't need cell reception for the GPS function
> to work.  You'll need it so infrequently that you'll be glad not to pick up
> the extra GPS weight for the little peace of mind that the app can provide
> anyway.  But the app can save you hours if you do happen to get turned
> around.
>
> Hollywood
>
>
> On Tue, Apr 9, 2013 at 4:56 PM, Jim & Jane Moody <moodyjj at comcast.net
> >wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > I disagree with the single "not needed" answer .  It depends on the
> > circumstances.  In 2011 I started at Sonora Pass on 1 July (nobo) and
> spent
> > lots of valuable time trying to find the trail.  I had map & compass and
> am
> > capable with each, but they are of limited value in woods, where no
> > physical features are visible.  Also, I found the contour lines on
> Halfmil
> > e's maps difficult to read most of the time.  I really needed a GPS in
> > 2011.  In the Sierra in 2010 our gro up had one but didn't use i t much -
> > not as much as we should have.
> >
> >
> >
> > I now have a Garmin eTrex 20 with Halfmile's maps loaded.  There are
> > cheaper ones and more expensive ones.  Check the list archives for
> threads
> > on GPS apps for a smartphone.  Somebody, maybe Chuck or MendoRider,
> posted
> > an endorsement on a wristwatch-type GPS that only displays location (in
> > UTM, I guess - maybe lat/long also).  It has no map display capability.
> > Used with a map, you can use the UTM readings to locate your approximate
> > position on the ground.
> >
> >
> >
> > If you're with the herd and/or it's a low snow year and /or you never get
> > off the trail , a GPS is less likely to be needed.  If you're by yourself
> > on an unfamiliar section of trail, especially on snow, then a GPS is more
> > likely to be useful.
> >
> >
> >
> > A little more weight for a little more piece of mind.  But by all means
> do
> > not take JUST the GPS without map and compass.
> >
> >
> >
> > Good luck,
> >
> > Mango
> >
> >
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> >
> >
> > From: "Michelle Robertson" <michellerobertson24 at ymail.com>
> > To: Pct-L at backcountry.net
> > Sent: Tuesday, April 9, 2013 2:26:00 PM
> > Subject: [pct-l] GPS
> >
> > What is the best gps to take on the PCT
> >
> > Sent from Yahoo! Mail on Android
> >
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