Importance of Maps

[cavediver256]

There is an iPhone app for the AT that will tell you exactly where you are on the trail. It will tell you how many TRAIL MILES to various landmarks (shelters, roads, etc). There are a few places with recent relocations where it will be off due to the app map not being updated. Odds of the paper map being updated to the relocations is even less.

I totally understand ChinMusic, and I agree....my point being, I don't care what method someone uses, we as responsible adults need to be dang sure we know where we are....just simply stating to a 911 operator, I am on the AT and I need help may delay that help getting to you in a timely manner....

I have served my time in the USMC and one of my other hobbies is cave diving ......I personally don't believe in putting all of my faith in one device/method....the whole two is one, one is none mentality....

[Camping_Steve]

I personally don't believe in putting all of my faith in one device/method....the whole two is one, one is none mentality....

I completely agree with this mentality, with the caveat that it depends on the hike. You can't screw around on the AT, and my phone doesn't always have service. That's why I intend on bringing my guide book with me whereever I go. Books and maps might be resistant to change, but at least they don't need a 3G connection.

[ChinMusic]

Books and maps might be resistant to change, but at least they don't need a 3G connection.

NONE of my AT apps or GPS apps require cell service for use on the trail. Download the map data prior to hitting the field.