[pct-l] GPS, distance and speed.

[dude at fastmail.ca (dude)]

> 4) My GPS mileage reports match EXACTLY what my
> truck's odometer tells me (within 1/10 of a mile over 100 miles)

I agree, when I use my GPS device (garmin e-trex legend) in my truck on 
the highway, its DAMN accurate.  

However, the trail is a different issue.  Highways usually have no 
obstructions that would limit contact with satelites (ie: thick tree-
cover).  It sounds too goofy to be true, but thick tree cover DOES 
affect how the GPS device is able to contact the satelites.

Additionally, the highway is generally straight. Try fining a road that 
is really really twisty and curvy with lots of switchbacks and zig-
zags.  My guess is that the GPS will report a different number than 
your odometer on your truck.

Also, as someone else reported on this list, I have seen my GPS device 
report very improbable statistics during a hike, such as a max speed of 
30 MPH or something like that.  If the unit is recording the max speed 
as 30 mph, that must be figured into the average pace and would thus 
completely skew your average.

The GPS devices are lots fo fun and can be useful, but I've just never 
found them to be any more useful than a map and compass, especially on 
well-marked trails.  To me, they are really just extra weight.  I 
suppose if you are going cross-country with no trails in an isolated 
area that has very few features on the horizon, a GPS would be quite 
useful.  But on the PCT, I really see them as a novelty.

peace,
dude

_________________________________________________________________
    http://fastmail.ca/ - Fast Secure Web Email for Canadians