[pct-l] Navigation 'kit' options

[David Thibault]

If you are not planning to carry a cell phone don't get one just for this
trip/navigation.

Half-miles maps and a compass are fine.

Even if you have a cell phone I would carry the printed half-mile maps.


If I was doing it again - I would take:

half miles maps
yogi's guide (the on trail portion)
Water report (just for So. Cal.)
my cheap ass compass

If (big if) the Sierras were completely snow covered when I got there I
would consider a GPS or hiking with a group that had a gps for this section.
If the Sierra's are under heavy snow - the hikers will be going out from
Kennedy Meadows in groups anyway.

When I did it I used the Wilderness press maps - which are way less
detailed than half-mile's maps.

You wont have to even start thinking about a possible GPS in the Sierra's
until Agua Dulce.  By then you will have an idea of the snow levels and
access to LA to pick one up if needed (or access to order one online).


Day-Late (who only got confused a few time with less than the recomended
above)


>
> Hello Everyone,
>
> Thanks to you all who have shared your perspectives, stories, and
> support regarding experience level.  I have another more general
> question about navigation and technology.  I know there are various
> gadgets, gizmos and do dads out there nowadays, and I'm wondering what
> everyone is using.  I was thinking about going a more old fashion
> route with printed maps and compass set-up, but it sounds like a lot
> of people are utilizing I-phones and the like.  Since I don't have a
> smart phone, I'm looking into other options.  If I don't take a phone,
> what is the best, but minimal navigation 'kit'?  Would it be better to
> just invest in a phone (that has maps, gps and such built in) and skip
> the other options for lighter weight, or does battery/charger weight
> basically just counteract that strategy?  Plus if the phone dies or
> doesn't get reception, then I won't have any wayfinding tools except
> nature.  Thoughts?
>
> Again, thank you.
>
>
>
>