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If you're going to do all you can to avoid getting an actual GPS, then I suggest a mapping program designed and engineered specifically for off-road use: Gaia maps. It will cost you $20. It is well worth it. You can also download routes and waypoints, but all the maps you could ever want/need are already in the program (off line). You can also track your own route and send to others. It has all the goat trails on it you can imagine.
I use Gaia Maps (on Google Play Store) on my Samsung Tab S2 in tandem with my Garmin 3597.
You might also consider getting a PLB, especially if you're solo a lot. And as an added *valuable* resource, get yourself a handheld HAM radio. Once it's registered, you can be tracked in real time (if you want) by family and friends on the internet on the http://aprs.fi website. Plus, you'll have a ham radio in case of an emergency.
I am a ham operator. Also I dont have anything apple or else I would use lead nav
I did a little research on this and found that if you get the google app on your phone, you can then get google earth that will then show your position. This appears to work well if you have cell service in the area. Of course it also uses data from your phone service. Google earth is updated about every 5 years and shows every thing. They even caught me on my tractor working in the field.
I've looked at Gaia app and I think this is probably what I'm looking for. So for those who have Gaia, do you have the Pro version or the basic version? To me, the basic version looks fine but I'm not sure that you get access to the same maps as the pro version gives you. Anyone know the specifics on this?
I have just the basic version. I've used it from California to Utah, tracked my routes, even used it once to find an unknown way out of a real pickle last year. Good enough for me.
Just wanted to say thanks to the folks recommending apps and let you know I went with the Gaia app (standard version). I loaded a few maps on my phone (USGS) and then my son and I went out to the wind caves in the Anza Borrego desert. Beautiful day and we hiked a trail out to the caves, did a few jeep trails and plotted it all on the map with Gaia. The app was pretty easy to figure out, worked great for what I wanted it to do and probably has a lot of features I need to dig into.
I downloaded "polaris ride command". It shows all the offroad trails which includes the ones for vehicles. I use it for atv and havent tried it for much else. Its free and you can download maps for use when no cell coverage. Just thought id throw that option out other as it may be useful to others.
I saw this pop back up and thought I'd post an update. First, I'm very happy with the Gaia app, works well and has a lot of useful features. The update has to do with my SUP - I wanted to track my paddle board trips and I realized I had an old off plan phone in the drawer. Pulled it out, charged it up and connect to the wi-fi in my house. Downloaded the app onto the old phone, turned on the GOS and stuck it in a good ole baggie.
Works like a champ - so well in fact, that I invested 10 bucks in a real cellphone waterproof case!
03-04-2017, 03:23 PM
