One of the other problems is that apps generally don't show map scale
as currently displayed.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2015 at 3:08 PM, Iski Stowe <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> A phone can be a useful tool, but you can't rely on it working when needed.
>
> On Mon, Nov 9, 2015 at 1:39 PM, Jacob DeGlopper <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>>
>> Inside the Google Maps app, you can also download sections of the map to
>> your phone, and they will then work in areas without cell service.  In the
>> Apple version, click the three-bar menu icon at the left of the search bar,
>> then click on "Your places" and scroll to the bottom of the list to save a
>> new map.
>>
>>     -- jacob
>>
>>> I recently bought a great paper map of the Lake Tahoe Basin.  Next to the
>>> key, it has a few paragraphs explaining the latest offering from the map
>>> company, download the map on your smart phone and use it  to locate your
>>> position in the backcountry.  It does not require wifi or cell coverage,
>>> just turn on the locator function on your phone.  Great idea I thought.
>>> There is an annual fee of course, and the challenge of downloading and
>>> getting it to work.  Neither my wife or myself could master the process in
>>> several hours of trying.  She is very good at this stuff.  I am not.  I
>>> think too much and too differently from the people who write apps.  Many
>>> reviews of the product say it is too difficult to use.
>>>
>>> Idea.  Why not just use the google maps app?  So i did and i recommend
>>> it.  It is idiot simple, can be pinned with your location, shows true north,
>>> and another arrow for the direction you point it, plus names and positions
>>> of nearby peaks, and even lifts and ski and hiking trails.  The display can
>>> be expanded and shrunk.  No bells and whistles but nothing complex to screw
>>> up either.  In any real backcountry emergency fear is going to hinder clear
>>> thinking and remembering directions.  I tried it on a hike in Carson Pass,
>>> CA last month.  Worked great.  The area is near tree line and in open areas
>>> it was easy to line up the map with the peaks I know by sight. I returned to
>>> the area last week, following an 18" dump.  When the conifers, covered with
>>> snow, you cant see 50 yards; the look of the area changes totally.  I can't
>>> locate the trails by sight.  But with this app I knew where I was in
>>> moments.  I take a minimalist approach to outdoor recreation.  I'd rather
>>> trust my wits!
>>
>>  a!
>>>
>>>   nd experience than rely on electronic devices.  But I'm going to be
>>> carrying my cell phone and google map app from now on.
>>>
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>>
>>
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>
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-- 
- So when you start talking rabbit I best start looking for the cats
instead of trusting you when you tell me they are under the bed.

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