I used to plan every backpacking route down to the mile, now I just carry a map and go

For about 5 years I would spend hours on AllTrails plotting every turn and campsite for trips in the Sierra Nevada. Then last summer on the Rae Lakes Loop I missed a turn because my phone died and I had no backup. Now I just bring a paper map and a compass, and I figure out the route as I walk. It feels more free and I actually notice more things like side trails and good water spots. Has anyone else ditched the GPS and gone back to paper maps for multi-day trips?

2 comments

2 Comments

jana_henderson521mo ago

Totally get what you mean. Did the same thing for years and switching to paper maps was the best call I made.

lewis.drew1mo ago

Makes you wonder what else we've overcomplicated, @jana_henderson52.