GPS Tracks or Waypoints

imported
#1

I am new to the GPS world and like to load the "tracks or centerline or waypoints of the AT to my Garmin Vista HCx unit.

I was able to download the shelter waypoints but not a track of the trail.

Any help or suggestions?

Bayou

#2

I do not own a gps but I can state that the AT is to trails as interstate 80 is to to roads. Its is hard to get lost and if you do make a wrong turn you will notice a change in the treadway almost immediately. In short, the gps on this trail will only be a toy to play with as it will not be necessary for route finding.:slight_smile:

stealthblew

#3

Garmin sells US TOPO 24K, National Parks, East that includes the AT trail and the associated AT corridor maps. With this software and your Garmin GPS you can set a point on the trail ahead of you, select GO TO, then select FOLLOW ROAD and you will get a Route to follow along the trail to the given point. Use the field DISTANCE to DESTINATION and you will know how far (miles) it is to walk along the trail to the selected point. I hope this helps. Good Luck.

Jay

#4

I agree, you do not need a GPS to navigate on the AT. However, a GPS can be much more than a “route finder” if used properly. A GPS can tell you how far you have traveled and how much farther you need to travel (by way of the trail) to get to a specific location, such as, to a camp, mountain top, water source or to a shelter. You will always know how much farther you need to walk/travel to get somewhere. With 24k maps, not only can you view the AT trail and the surrounding areas, you can also create the profile of your trail ahead of you. Even better, when you get to a road or town you can switch the GPS from trails to roads and use it to find your way around. Such as, to a grocery store, post office, restaurant or to a hospital. And again, you will know how far to travel to get there. This is all dependent on loading the proper information to the GPS before hand. Such as 24k maps and City Navigator. This can get a little pricey, but, down the road (pun intended) you will appreciate having the GPS unit set up properly.

Jay

#5

Did you do a search on the Appalachiantrail dot org website? I typed in gps in the search box and a whole page of downloadable mapping and GIS information came up including the centerline of the Trail…perhaps this site will be helpful for you.

Taylor

#6

I have hiked the AT, I know you don’t need the data. I have gotten the info I needed, thanks.

Bayou