I've read a variety of other threads about GPS for the 6700 - but most seem to be related to the URBAN jungle. But what about offroad navigation?

Do any of the major software packages (Iguidance, TomTom, MS Streets and Trips) contain rudimentary tools useful for hiking or exploring? How about other, independent software?

At the minimum I'm looking for something that would set waypoints, and allow me to plot my progress - so I can at least find my way back to where I started. Ideally, I'd like to see something that would allow me to download topographical maps.

Take a look at Backcountry Navigator - http://www.backcountrynavigator.com/. There is a trial (download the beta) and it's pretty cheap at $30 if you decide to buy it. The only other one I know of is MemoryMap - http://www.memory-map.com/index.html? - but I've never used it. And I think it's about $100. Enjoy! - sheureka

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Do good. Be kind. Have fun.

You might want to look at http://wimobi.com/gpsdash/overview.ppc2.php as you can load it with your own custom maps.

to those that do this, do you strap a bluetooth gps to the top of your backpack or something? all kidding aside, what do you do?

I guess you could lash it to your pack, but the latest BT devices are sensitive (and small) enough you can just stick them in your pocket - and I'd think they'd be a little safer there - sheureka

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Do good. Be kind. Have fun.

I find my Holux GpSlim works just fine in my pocket.

If you are going to be really roughing it you might want to leave the phone behind and just get a nice stand alone unit.

"If you are going to be really roughing it you might want to leave the phone behind and just get a nice stand alone unit."

I guess I'm wondering why - is there a difference in quality of output? By doing a comparison - I'd have a better setup by adding a GPS and software than getting a quality stand alone unit for the same price. I hardly ever REALLY rough it, I've gone at most 16 miles in a day - and then my major concern was that I got badly lost and almost lost daylight altogether. So a GPS tethered to my phone would help me have more successful hikes.

Thanks a lot for the suggestions guys! It looks like I have 2 good options so far.

For one thing, battery life may be a concern on an all day hike. You may have to get one of those AA recharger adapters to bring along. Secondly, the phone isn't nearly as rugged as a stand alone unit dsigned for hiking would be. Dropping the phone or getting it wet isn't recommended at all, where a good stand alone may be able to handle more accidental abuse.

That being said, you may want to check out geocaching.com for software reviews that would apply...

It is just a suggestion, as the stand alone units are far more tough and water resistant than the 6700.

ppc- 6700 as a GPS
Cons:
- the screen is not very visible in direct sun light
- Battery life (if you use an app that can turn the screen of this isn't so bad)
- durability / water resistance, grip (it will not survive a whole lot)

Pros:
- color screen
- more robust software
- you can make calls, assuming you have signal
- you can take notes and other tasks out in the field

Another vote here for Memory Map. I've heard of Ozi Explorer doing well too.

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Regards,
Matt

I used to use DeLorme's Topo on my Ipaq 2215. In addition to theirs, I think you were able to use your own scanned maps (although I never tired that).

I have also Garmin eTrex Legend handheld, but now I would much rather use my PPC6700 and Holux 236.

Thanks a lot for all of the information. I don't think battery life should be a problem for me, since the GPS' I'm shopping for feature 15 hours of regular use, and many have replacable batteries. Ruggedness i'm not really concerned about since I regularly hiked with my old cell phone with no issues, and I keep the current one cased.

I have looked into memory map, and I can figure out how to get the software, but the maps are damn expensive. Does any topo format work, or where can I find cheap USA maps?