Navigation for Off roading roads?

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RFB

97 FZJ80 LIFTED SC DUAL BATTERIES,37s
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Do they make a gps or mapping system that shows trails, class 6 roads etc. I use a paper map/atlas and always have, so Im wondering if there is a better way to find trails in other states/counties etc.
 
Do they make a gps or mapping system that shows trails, class 6 roads etc. I use a paper map/atlas and always have, so Im wondering if there is a better way to find trails in other states/counties etc.

Never heard of one that does.

I navigate using Avenza and forest service MVUM maps.
 
Never heard of one that does.

I navigate using Avenza and forest service MVUM maps.
I think that some of the Gaia and Avenza maps have some of those roads on them, no?
 
I think that some of the Gaia and Avenza maps have some of those roads on them, no?
So Im guessing these Gaia etc are apps that go into your Gps system? I dont have one as of yet. Im a military fella so I like paper but if its easier and more pinpoint Im in
 
So Im guessing these Gaia etc are apps that go into your Gps system? I dont have one as of yet. Im a military fella so I like paper but if its easier and more pinpoint Im in
Well, in the case of Avenza, Avenza is essentially a PDF reader, and utilizes maps that you can either import, get for free, or buy from their store. The Avenza app will work on whatever computer-ish device you choose to use, phone, tablet, laptop etc., but I don't think they will work on a traditional GPS, as in I don't think you would/could ever put Avenza on your old Garmin, but I guess i could be wrong on that. Once you have the maps up that you want to use, the gps on whatever device it is will put you as a blue dot on the map and track your progress (even if you don't have a cell signal).
In the case of Gaia, they have their own app and you can get maps from various sources, such as the USGS, USFS etc, and you can select what level of detail you would like, keeping in mind that the level of detail determines how wide of an area you can see (more detail=less square miles of map coverage). Their map positions you as a small brown arrow, and also tracks other details, such as your altitude, based on the topo details.
With both (all) of these you will need to download any maps you think you will want/need prior to your trip, as it only works from saved maps (like a normal GPS).
You might actually like Avenza better, as a lot of their maps seem to be paper maps that have been converted to digital.
As an aside, I hear you an getting used to the technology, none of this stuff was around when I learned about topo maps and compasses when I was a kid, or even when I did deliveries after college, and all we had was a giant 8' map in the office and atlases in the trucks!
 
I don't know about you guys down south, but here in Western Canada we have a company that makes a series of books called Backroads Mapbooks. They focus on different areas, mostly around our Rocky Mountains, and show in detail a ton of the little routes that have been found for hiking, biking, horse riding, paddling, atv, offroading, old mining roads, forestry roads, camping spots, lookout points, topographical data you name it. They do offer an electronic version that is compatible with Garmin based maps, but I've never used it, just the paper books for me so far.
 
Gaia is fantastic. Gaia is a proprietary app but not designed to go into a GPS system. It can be used on any iOs or android device (tablet, smartphone) It has a great route-building system, creating way points is easy and route recording is a breeze. It works great offline, but you do have the ability to download "areas" though I have not lost GPS signal yet even in stretches of sparse coverage (like Big Bend). Partner it with a cheap android tablet and a GPS puck and you will have difficulties getting "lost"

As stated, you can apply numerous overlays like USGS, NATGEO Topo, USFS, etc. Most of them will be in a format you are familiar with. One of the other cool features is telling you points of interests like creeks, cemeteries, historic markers, information stations, etc. They show up as little way points you can click to pop-up information on. As an avid historic cemetery/bridge hunter, I love these tools. Reading a map and compass is an important life skill but now a days, Gaia is my go to.

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Using Gaia I frequently down load aerial maps along with USGS topo maps when traveling a new area to explore. The plus with the combo is aerial maps dont lie and provide you an advance look are when that marked or unmarked trail/road goes. I find the combo very helpful.
 
Another vote for Gaia. Love it for hiking, backpacking and off roading.
 
I have both Gaia and GaiaPro (paid subscription). The Pro I got recently from an offer they sent me, includes all the NatGeo Trails Illustrated maps. That was the game changer for me, I used to use Gaia and then shift to Avenza for the trails illustrated. Now, all in one, what not to love. Work great for off cell tower range
 
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Nevermind, wrong thread.
 

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