How to Use a GPS Receiver for Hiking
A global positioning system (GPS) receiver is a device that uses satellites to send users in the right direction. The growth of the GPS market has occurred due to increased marketing toward outdoors enthusiasts who love hiking, climbing and boating. You can leave the cumbersome process of orienteering behind when you learn to use a GPS receiver for hiking.
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Instructions
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Play around with the digital compass feature on your GPS receiver before hiking unfamiliar terrain. Point the receiver at different directions, angles and elevations to test out the device's limitations.
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Download maps for national parks, state trails and other hiking environments to your GPS receiver before leaving your house. Most GPS manufacturers offer CD or PC downloads to receivers with updated maps to reflect construction, new hazards and trail changes.
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Lay out a general path for your hiking trip when you use the quickest routes features on your GPS receiver. This tool allows you to connect your starting point to various spots along a hiking trail that are recognized by your GPS software.
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Record the distance of your hike while tracking calories lost during your trip using your GPS receiver. Many GPS receivers feature digital pedometer and exercise tools that allow you to assess the physical benefits of hiking.
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Switch between overhead and ground-level views of your GPS map to find the best option for hiking. An ideal GPS receiver for hiking will have multiple points of view available to help avoid obstacles further along the trail.
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Flip through updated forecasts, barometric pressure readings and humidity levels as you use your GPS receiver. Pay particular attention to air pressure during your trip to determine the likelihood of a serious storm.
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Plan your hiking trip based on the sunrise and sunset times indicated on your GPS receiver. These times are updated on your receiver with frequent connections to your computer's USB port.
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Tips & Warnings
Protect your GPS receiver while hiking with a rubber case and nylon mount. A rubber case surrounding the GPS receiver will protect this delicate device when dropped or placed in a backpack. Most GPS receivers designed for hiking are packaged with nylon mounts that fit around your arm for easy use.
Leave yourself a safety net by packing a traditional compass and trail map in your bag. A GPS receiver may run out of power or break during the middle of your expedition. Map out your path along a particular trail before leaving to make emergency navigation easier.
