View Full Version : Maps/Guide Books
I know I can do the AT w/out them, but I especially love maps and am planning on bringing them with me, as I go through each section. My question is: If I want the most updated maps/books, when should I buy them? Do new ones come out every year? If so, when is that?
Thanks!!
Nightwalker
06-13-2007, 23:16
I know I can do the AT w/out them, but I especially love maps and am planning on bringing them with me, as I go through each section. My question is: If I want the most updated maps/books, when should I buy them? Do new ones come out every year? If so, when is that?
Thanks!!
As far as maps go, some are redone every year, on a rotating basis. AFAIK, the latest to be updated are the last three in NC/TN, re-issued in '06 I think. The GA map, for instance was updated in '04. There's only one fellow, that I know of, that does all of the GIS work for the ATC, and it's a very big job.
Uncle Silly
06-14-2007, 13:30
Probably your best bet is to pick up a map set from the ATC once, then pay attention to what maps are updated in the years following and buy those to replace the older ones in your set. For any given map there'll probably be five or more years between new editions, so you won't be buying new maps every year. I think Nightwalker's right; the last updates I'm aware of were the NC/TN maps (tho I think those were updated in '05, as I had the new ones for my hike).
Personally, I wouldn't bother with the guidebooks, unless you find a used maps+books set for less than a new maps set. But YMMV.
hammock engineer
06-14-2007, 13:31
If you are not in a hurry and want the whole set, the ATC sells last year's maps around the end off the year at a discount.
If you are not in a hurry and want the whole set, the ATC sells last year's maps around the end off the year at a discount.
I agree. This is a great deal. The maps won't change significantly from one year to the next. Any trail relocations will be well marked and the distance (mileage) changes won't make much difference to you in a day's or week's hiking.
Take the "data book" along. If you're looking for a real bargain, order last year's copy. If there's some major change or addition to it, you'll hear about in on the "Trail Grape Vine" as you travel.
I recommend the ALDHA Thru Hiker's Companion...but not to carry. Glean what info you need or put in a bounce box.