GPS Software

[MikeyB]

I just picked up a Garmin eTrex Legend HCx GPS. From reading many reviews it sounds like the Garmin topo software is junk. Any software recommendations?

[OCary]

I have the National Geographic Weekend Explorer 3D for the Twin Cities area.

Pros:
- 1:24,000 scale
- It was cheap. $30 at REI I believe.
- It had all the topos I needed (BWCAW and most of the St Croix River).
- You can print topo maps.

Cons
- It does not download maps to my Garmin. (This is a significant negative)

Basically, I plotted a bunch of points in the computer software and downloaded these points to the GPS unit. Then from the PC software I printed hard copies of the topo maps (with the GPS markings). As I use the GPS as a backup, rather than a primary, this worked great.

The Garmin Topo software, I have not used, but the nation-wide last I knew was 1:100,000 scale which is of limited use for navigation. REI Bloomington has a demo PC setup with a couple of the software offerings to try out atleast on the PC.



Around this past Christmas, I also got the Garmin Streetmaps (v7 I think). While these are not 100% correct, they are very good. I use my GPS a lot more, and I have only found one major map flaw and it was in a rather odd neighborhood in coastal Oregon, so that is not a huge surprise. The ~$100 for the maps take my GPS from primarily a dust gatherer I used on paddling trips, to a regular fixture in my car and pack. The GPS does not replace a good map and common sense; it is just a good addition to a travelers don't-get-lost arsenal.

[martini]

topofusion.

www.topofusion.com

They have a free tester, and if you like it, buy the whole enchilada for something like $35. This includes updates. I've been using it for a few years and like it.