GPS

Is There a Good Handheld GPS for Both Road (Turn-by-turn) and Hiking (Topographical)?

I would like to be able to use a handheld GPS for (1) driving by car and (2) hiking. I would like the unit to (1) show turn-by-turn directions while driving and (2) give a topographical map for hiking. Thanks much for your ideas.

Public Comments

1. I like my Garmin iQue3000, but it has some limitations for off-road use. The model I have uses an internal rechargable battery, where you'd want replaceable batteries for off road. Likewise, I wouldn't bet on it being very "water tolerant", and as you know, when you get out in the woods, it's going to rain!! I'm not sure about topographical maps. This one allows you to load maps into it, and I've only worked with street maps so far. The unit itself is very nice, and I enjoy driving with it. It's also a PDA, and very useful.
2. The best for you would probably be a Garmin 76CSX or a Garmin 60CSX. They are both handheld and basically both the same except for different shape. On any handheld it won't come with street or topographical maps, but you can definitely purchase the software separately and then send it over to the unit form your PC. Garmin has street software that is compatible with these units that has very detailed information with basically every street in America. When put on either of these units, it will give you turn by turn directions. They also have Topo maps. Also, when you get the software, you can transfer all the information you have (like the actual coordinates of the entire track you logged through a hike) from the unit and view on the maps on your computer. You can also create routes before you leave on your computer and send them over to the unit to navigate it when your hiking or driving. They also both have a barometric altimeter and electronic compass that will tell you your altitude which is great for hiking in the wilderness. you can transfer your altitude logs to your PC as well! The units cost about $400-$450 dollars. Good luck!