View Full Version : I have the official maps but do I need...
I have the maps for the trail but do I need the official guidebooks or am I ok with just the Companion?
Thanks for answering what has probably been asked a million times.
Lone Wolf
02-11-2008, 13:55
just the companion is fine
Blissful
02-11-2008, 14:54
You don't need the guidebooks. You're set to go. Have a super time.
hopefulhiker
02-11-2008, 14:57
The Companion is adequate but I would take a look at The Appalachian Pages. There are threads about that guide on this site...
Before this gets beaten to death or this thread goes off on a tangent, and your head begins to feel like it's going to explode trying to decide what's right, let me echo Lone Wolf's and Blissful's comments. The maps and the companion R fine. U R set to go!
Appalachian Tater
02-11-2008, 15:43
Yes, you're set!
ofthearth
02-11-2008, 22:01
Are there different sets of maps available? I have a set for GA-NC and they seem rather large and heavy. I have the full set for the FT and they seem to do a good job with less weight and material. Any thoughts?
tia
ofthearth
AT-HITMAN2005
02-11-2008, 22:34
every state has there own style of maps. if you got them from the ATC they are the official maps, can't really do a whole lot about it. but you can always trim off all the extra stuff just make sure you check both sides of the map before cutting.
I know of very few long-distance hikers that carry the state-by-state guidebooks from ATC.
The official ATC maps are heavy because they're printed on plastic. But they're excellent. Lots of detail, profiles, and they hold up well. You may well need to consult one in less-than-perfect weather.
Tennessee Viking
02-11-2008, 23:56
Companion will have near trail features. The guidebooks will have alternate water sources.
I would rather have the trail data than the maps because they give you points of interest, some history in certain places, directions to water off the trail, facilities both directions at road crossings, etc. etc. etc. I use this info more than the maps, but I do usually carry both. ;)