[TangoTeamLeader]

The trail maps (from what I understand) are USER submitted, STAFF verified GPS data sets. So, you are correct in the fact that there might be trails within a park that will not be covered in the GPS. Most likely the GPS dataset (gpx file) will not include ALL of the trails within a park because they are created by a user riding the route. However, often it is the most popular trail submitted – so if you are unfamiliar to the area it might be a good place to start

As for upgrading – if you are not comfortable reading maps (or there are none) and you want to make sure you do not get lost 5-10-15 miles from your vehicle, it could be worth it.

TangoTL

[TangoTeamLeader]

I am currently using the Garmin Etrex Summit HC. It’s the second GPS that I’ve owned (we do a lot of geocaching too, so within my family we have over 6 GPS’s) I am a big fan of the eTrex and often just start it and stick it in my jersey pocket until I need it.

Overall, the eTrex series is really nice for what I need. It is a little big to mount to the handle bars (and I’ve heard that if you want to mount it make sure you put something in the battery pack area to snug it up). Like I said though, I have mine in the pocket and it works fine. Overall, I use Garmin’s MapSource software and the TopoGraphic add-on to map maps (plus I love that it shows elevation changes)

If you have any question/problems, let me know – I know the GPS pretty well.

TangoTL

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