GPS a necessity on the Colorado Trail

imported
#1

Can anyone tell me if a GPS is really necessary when walking the Colorado Trail, particularly from Waterton Canyon to Copper Mountain? If there is a necessity, would the Garmin eTrex Vista model be sufficient without spending more on software maps? (Is the U.S. Base Map and Trip and Way Point Manager enough?) I don’t want to get lost. But I also don’t want to spend a lot more than I’ve already spent in preparing for the trip. (I do have the Official Guidebook for the Coloraod Trail from the Colorado Trail Association already.)

Ron Forseth

#2

Whoops. I see that I posted this on the wrong tree. Apologies.

Ron Forseth

#3

Ron,

Everyone I’m sure has their own opinions on this type of question. I’m a pretty average, middle of the pack type hiker, and I like to have good navigation tools. that said, I did NOT use any GPS on the entire colorado trail, and never once had a problem navigating (except in snowy areas - I started early season). I used the data and guide books (which have since been updated and are probably the ones you have). If you like the security of a GPS and want to bring it … go for it…but I don’t feel it is necessary and you will have to worry about batteries.

my 2 cents

lakewood

#4

No need for GPS anywhere on the CT, especially the section you noted.

Matt