How to Use the Track Feature on GPS

The track feature on a GPS records a collection of points in sequence as you travel. This feature allows you to record your travels for later review and for sharing with others who may wish to walk, hike, ride or drive that same trip. The track feature also includes the trackback feature, allowing you to follow the same route back to your starting point. Both Garmin and Magellan GPS handhelds offer the track feature.

Things You'll Need

• Garmin or Magellan GPS

Instructions

Garmin GPS

1. Clear all previous track logs. Press "Menu" twice to open the Main Menu. Select the "Tracks" icon and press "Enter" to open the Tracks page. Select "Clear" and press "Enter." At the prompt to clear the track log, select "Yes" and press "Enter."

2. Start a new track log. Press "Menu" twice to open the Main Menu. Select the "Tracks" icon and press "Enter." Select "Setup" and press "Enter" to open the Track Log Setup Page.

3. Set waypoints (points of interest) when you start your trip and when you end your trip. Set as many additional waypoints as needed, particularly at turns and other areas that may be difficult to navigate. Set waypoints by pressing "Mark" and "Enter."

4. Navigate your track back to the start. Open the Saved Tracks Page. Highlight the "TracBack" button. Press "Enter" to open the TracBack Page showing your entire track. Use the "Rocker" to select the point where you want to return. Press "Enter." Select "Follow Track" to start navigating with TracBack. The Map Page displays directions to the first turn on the track. Follow the directions for each turn. To exit, press "Menu" and select "Stop Navigation."

5. View your track on the map. Press "Menu" twice to open the Main Menu. Select the "Tracks" icon and press "Enter." Highlight the Saved Track, select the "Map" button and press "Enter."

Magellan GPS

1. Clear all previous track logs. Select "Menu" in the Map screen. Select "View>Tracks> Erase Track." Select "Yes" to confirm.

2. Start a new track log. Select "Menu" in the Map screen. Select "View>Tracks>Save Track." Enter a name for the track. Select the green checkmark to save the track.

3. Set waypoints when you start and end your trip. Set as many waypoints as needed, particularly where your route may be difficult to navigate. Select "Menu" in the Map screen. Select "Create Waypoint" and press "Enter."

4. Navigate your track back to the start. In the Map screen press "Enter." Select "Backtrack." Select "Yes." Acknowledge the Backtrack alert and follow the directions for each turn.

5. View your track on the map. Select "Menu" in the Map screen. Select "Go To--Trail" and highlight your trail. Select "Page/Go To--Show Trail."

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your GPS battery is fully charged.

• Stay aware of your surroundings when using GPS.

References

• Garmin 60CSx Owners Manual
• Magellan Triton 200 Owners Manual

Resources

• Garmin
• Magellan