Favorite Topo Map Software?

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BSquared
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by BSquared »

gdurkee wrote:Ah. You may be confusing ArcGIS Explorer (the one I recommended above) with ArcGIS 10, which is definitely high end and has a learning curve. Though Esri is trying to put that within reach of the average map geek. They've got a great $100/year license fee for ArcGIS 10 desktop for home users (non-commercial).

But, anyway, Explorer has a short learning curve. In fact, you can wait for my (along with co-author Vanessa) exciting "How To" on using Explorer, along with other geeky stuff: Using GIS for Wildland Search and Rescue. Hoping it's out in July. The PDF will be free (I think...).

There's also ArcGIS Explorer Online, but not quite as versatile.

g.
Sorry: indeed I was confusing ArcGIS Explorer with the bigger ArcGIS. My bad. Keep us posted on that book, George! If it looks good enough, it might stimulate me to actually boot my Mac as PC occasionally (something I otherwise hate to do) ;)
—B²
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gdurkee
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by gdurkee »

And there's the question: what free or cheap mapping software is out there for the Mac (not that I'd ever use one. But I know people...).

g.
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rlown
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by rlown »

what is a Mac? :D

I'm a mapsource (garmin) and GE fan. All I need. There is newer garmin sw but i don't want to lay down 129 buxx to find out how it is or if the maps are any better/different. I use the 24k West garmin set.

I still fondly look back at the days when i lived near Menlo Park and could go over during lunch and sift through the USGS maps and buy a real map.
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Mike M.
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by Mike M. »

I still fondly look back at the days when i lived near Menlo Park and could go over during lunch and sift through the USGS maps and buy a real map.
When I lived in SF and worked in the Financial District back in the 70s and 80s, I did the same thing: using my lunch breaks to peruse the printed 15 minute topo maps at the USGS office on Battery Street. I still have a fairly complete collection, although many are weathered and worn. Come to think of it, so am I!

Mike
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BSquared
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by BSquared »

gdurkee wrote:And there's the question: what free or cheap mapping software is out there for the Mac (not that I'd ever use one. But I know people...).
As I noted earlier, I'm a long-time "MacGPS Pro" user http://www.macgpspro.com. It's now up to sixty bucks, which ain't exactly "cheap," but it's not outrageous, either.

I really like paper maps, too, and also remember fondly when I could ramble into the Menlo Park store, and later the Wyoming State Geological Survey store on the U Wyo campus. Sigh... I bought a bunch of paper maps for our upcoming Swiss Alps trip, and the Swiss topo maps are gorgeous—truly works of art!
—B²
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rlown
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by rlown »

After I moved, I ordered my maps from USGS..

Does this bring back any memories?
Maps 002.JPG
Ignore the crab.. That's Bubba's favorite toy of the month.
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SierraMaclure
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Re: Favorite Topo Map Software?

Post by SierraMaclure »

My husband got me Terrain Navigator Pro for Christmas a few years ago. He's HEAVILY into Contra Costa County Search and Rescue and has helped bring the whole state's SAR mapping into the 21st century. When he joined 5 years ago they were using xeroxes of xeroxes of the Thomas guide. I was appalled. I love TNP and print out customized maps for all my clients on my trips. I teach map and compass and they all get a map to learn with on the trip and take home as a souvenir. I love to see them taking notes on their maps. Last year I learned to load a route on my gps so I wouldn't get lost with clients on the Pohono Trail covered with snow. Similarly, I loaded a route out to Dewey Pt. cuz I knew we'd be going out there in a blizzard and probably no broken trail. I also find it helpful in planning my once a year big trip, usually of-trail, with friends. With that and Google Earth, I'm pretty set, except, of course, for the 10 foot verticals where we need to shimmy up or down, like over Potluck Pass. But that's what keeps it interesting. :thumbsup:
"Between every two pine trees lies a door to a new life," John Muir.
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