For your backcountry trip, we will provide you with a basic GPS file, called a .kml file. We’ll also integrate that file into an app we use called Gaia GPS, which is excellent. I highly recommend Gaia and we use it all the time. Literally, all the time. Best GPS app anywhere, and it’s not even close.
You’ll find a section in your Resources folder (or trip Itinerary webpage) that includes both a link to the GaiaGPS folder with the route uploaded and the standalone .kml file you can bring into other software if you’d rather.
If you want to use Google Earth (or any other software) the .kml file will also be shared with you.
It’s the same file and info as we have in GaiaGPS, we’ve just already imported the .kml file into Gaia in the first link. You’re free to use either in your trip prep. Just be sure to read our tutorial on using smart phones for navigation in the field. You’ll need to know how to conserve your battery use, and also how to download images or maps to the app you hit the backcountry.
If you have any trouble downloading or using it, post a message on the question board. We’ll try to get a tutorial uploaded for you ad link it here. I definitely recommend you get started playing with it, do some research and find out how best to use it.
If you’d like to print a map, I recommend Caltopo.com or hillmap.com
The issues for field use are
- battery power for your phone. Use judiciously.
- downloading the maps and satellite imagery your trip.
Once you do that, it’s awesome.
