Originally Posted by phidauex
Yes, please do not throw away your maps and compasses, and if you don't know how to use maps and compasses, I suggest you learn before you go backcountry anywhere!
I was involved with a colorado search and rescue group for a long time, and when GPS units and cell phones became common it began an unending stream of people who go out in the wilderness, have their GPS batteries run out/drop the GPS on a rock/in a lake/stolen by bears/can't get a signal, etc, try their cell phone and realize there is no signal there either, and then starve for a few days while someone comes and finds them.
GPSs are super handy, and can make a lot of routine activities easier, but do not rely on them for the safety of you or your family, make sure you have a backup plan if navigation is key to your survival.
peace,
sam
Not to mention if you don't have a firm grasp of topographical cues your beloved gps may lead you into a rather tight spot if you are in mountainous terrain or canyons.
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Sunrise saturday,
I was biking the backroads,
lost in the moment.