Re: [Philmont]: GPS

As a veteran hiker at Philmont, I agree with the "not needed, except for the Valle" comments plus the "fun factor" or any other personal use for later documentation. Also agree with Coop on the part about needing it less as the trek progresses.
Actually, I believe you have to "work" at getting really lost on Philmont. Might not be where you want to be, but if you "stay on the trail" you will find yourself relatively easily.
Last year, in the the Valle, I used mine twice as confirmation of the crews map/compass triangulation work, and then went on to teach GPS usage, once I felt the crew had sufficent knowledge in map/compass application.
GPS is a great item, only few extra ounces for unit & batteries, and if your willing to share knowledge with the crew it can make for a good learning experience, but not a substitue for good map/compass work and sharpening orienteering skills.
 
D. Tadsen
St. Charles, MO
 
-----Original Message-----
From: coopwright@aol.com
To: Multiple recipients of list philmont <philmont@troop47.com>
Sent: Wed, 05 Apr 2006 10:04:32 -0400
Subject: Re: [Philmont]: GPS

I have to agree with Pete. Unless you are headed up into the Valle, you will find that the maps are sufficient and that your GPS will become a "fun factor" that will be used less and less as the trek goes on.
 
Cooper Wright
Associate Advisor, Crew 1519
Warrenton, VA
 

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Received on Wed Apr 5 23:45:49 2006