Map My Hike With New iPad App

Is the iPad really durable enough to go on long hikes? The folks at Backpacker magazine and Trimble Outdoors apparently think so, as they have announced the release of Backpacker Map Maker, a mapping and trip planning app for the Apple iPad. From the touch-screen tablet computer hikers and backpackers can find wild places, plot GPS points and plan their next adventure over seamless topographical maps.

“Our readers absolutely love maps. As avid backcountry explorers and GPS users, they like to view, create and annotate their topos, and with Map Maker, they can now harness the beauty and power of their tablets to experience maps in an extraordinary and dynamic way,” said Jonathan Dorn, editor-in-chief of Backpacker, and vice president, AIM Outdoor Group. “Map Maker is a portable, practical tool for hikers, a great way to relive their adventures, and the perfect complement to GPS Trails, our smartphone navigation app for in-the-field use.” Continue reading Map My Hike With New iPad App

Earthmate PN-60w Gets Back(Packer) Award

The DeLorme Earthmate PN-60w has your back, and more importantly it has earned the Backpacker magazine Editors’ Choice Award, one of the most prestigious awards in the outdoor industry, given annually to products in recognition of their outstanding innovation in design, materials, and/or performance.

The Earthmate PN-60w is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS offering full navigation capabilities, along with the unique ability to create custom Type & Send text messages for delivery via the SPOT Satellite Communicator. It allows users to explore and stay connected with family, buddy lists, social network sites, and emergency responders, even when far beyond the reach of cell phone service. It has earned the award after extensive, rigorous testing in the most challenging conditions imaginable. Continue reading Earthmate PN-60w Gets Back(Packer) Award