Mapping Software

[redneckdan]

Can somebody suggest a good mapping software for use with a garmin etrek legend? I tried mapsource but I'm less than satisfied with it.

[AlmontHappycamper]

What do you want to accomplish? Printing maps to use with it and a compass? If so I like http://nmviewogc.cr.usgs.gov/viewer.htm. It will attach lat-lon lines, different scales, etc. And free.
If you want to upload I'm not sure, I use the one on CD from Lowrance for my unit.

[redneckdan]

I'm looking for stuff to uploaded to GPS. Desired features include: waypoint, route, and map editing and uploading to GPS. I didn't like the mapsource base maps. I want something that uses base maps similar to USGS topo quads...only more up to date.

[bucknduck]

I use Mapsource Topo with my legend and i create seperate files for deer hunting, fishing, bird hunting etc... This allows me to clear out my gps and only download the waypoints and maps etc...for whatever activity I am setting out to do. If you want to get details for the big waters, Blue Chart is also part of Mapsource and will be a part of the Mapsource program rather than installed as a seperate program. From there you select the type of map you want to download.
Simple to use and gives you a backup of all your date in case something happens to your gps.

[hitechman]

anything but MapSource will work with Garmin. The basic MapSource program is just a tool (no maps to speak of). Each map type you want (Blue Chart, TOPO, etc) MUST be purchased seperately, and then you will need MapSource program to select the portions of the map you want to upload. You will not be able to upload maps without the MapSource base program.

Steve

[hunt-n-fool]

if I recall correctly, you can only use one type of map at a time anyways, they just dont have enuf layers in them to have a topo and a high detail map loaded - too bad, it would be nice to have both at the same time.

[Michigan Hunter]

I use MetroGuide CD and Mapsource Topo CD. Haven't had a need for anything extra. I hunt Michigan and out west including California. I usually load Metro Maps for the cities i will be going through and Topo for the hunt areas. What else do you need?

[res]

I use MetroGuide CD and Mapsource Topo CD. Haven't had a need for anything extra. I hunt Michigan and out west including California. I usually load Metro Maps for the cities i will be going through and Topo for the hunt areas. What else do you need?
Hope you don't mind a quick question. I have the 60csx with the topo cd and found that many of the small roads are unnamed in the rural areas. Does the metro cd only fill in the metro areas or does it do a good job with the rural roads as well? Rick

[hitechman]

Try zooming in or scanning to the side. I think you'll see the name pop up.

Steve

[Michigan Hunter]

The MetroGuide has everything plus addresses, Gas, food, Bars, etc. The Topo maps have a lot but not the great amount that MetroGuide has. The Topo Maps have plenty of the woods or ranch roads but misses a lot. We use Topo while hunting and find many two tracks but if we go on the many that don't show, we set up tracks and save it for later travel on those roads. I guess I don't remember how much detail of main roads is on Topo because I only use the Topo while hunting the ranches. I suggest you check with Garmin or see them at a business and they will show you the details of each. I'll tell you, I only use MetroGuide in Michigan since Topo doesn't show me much due to our flat state but in California where I hunt a lot, Topo is needed in the mountain ranches I am at. If I was to only get one I would get MetroGuide. You would not be dissapointed.

[res]

hitechman,
Even when zoomed below the .5mile range it does not show many of the names of the smaller roads.

Michigan Hunter,
Thanks for the help. I have also heard from Gander they have a backroads and recreation cd or something like that. It is supposed to give all the tiny roads etc. I appreciate the info and I will see if I can find a way to compare the metro and this supposed recreation cd.

Thanks guys for the help. Rick