Below is a growing resource of Handheld GPS related links. You'll find sources of map software, digital maps, GPS waypoints, GPS routes, geocaches and more. Know of a "missing link"? Click here to let me know about it.
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Sources of GPS data downloads that can be used either to plan trips or uploaded directly to your GPS unit.
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| POI Factory |
Database of downloadable POIs...quite a good collection. |
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| Trail Central |
Download mountain bike GPS routes in about a dozen US States. |
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| Red Trails |
Hiking trail GPS routes downloadable in KML (Google Earth) or TPO (National Geographic TOPO!) file formats. Mostly Washington state trails so far... |
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| Everytrail |
Share waypoints, routes and POIs with other users. Nice interface. |
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| Geocaching.com |
The original geocaching site. Search for and download thousands of geocache waypoints from around the world. |
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| GPXchange.com |
Upload and download GPX format data files. |
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| GPS XChange |
Yes, this really is a different site from GPXchange...there's an extra "S" in this one! |
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Find GPS Mapping Software resources for your GPS unit and your computer.
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| Mac GPS Pro |
As the name implies, this is GPS map software for the Mac. The interface is a bit clunky but it will work with your Mac and allow you to use free scanned raster maps of all kinds instead of buying expensive maps. |
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| GPS Visualizer |
Free online utility to create maps from GPS data or plan trips using addresses, coordinates or other information. Works with Mac and PC. |
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| Google Earth |
Google Earth is a great free mapping program. The $20/year paid version allows you to upload and download waypoints, routes and POIs to your GPS receiver too. Mac/PC compatible. |
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| GPSNavX |
Marine GPS navigation software for the Mac. |
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| Route Buddy |
The first 100% OS X native Mac GPS mapping software. The interface is very attractive but for now there is no topo map capability. It does feature autorouting and nice road maps though. Mac only. |
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| Delorme Topo USA |
The main competitor to National Geographic TOPO!, this map software will only run on a Windows PC. |
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| National Geographic TOPO! |
This mapping software can be used on your computer to generate waypoints and routes to upload to your GPS unit. Mac/PC compatible. |
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Digital maps of all sorts to use for GPS route planning.
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| GPSy Digital Map Links |
Huge resource of digital maps compiled by this Mac GPS software company. |
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| MacGPSPro Digital Map Archive |
One of the most complete listings of digital map sources online. If you have a Mac check out their mapping software too. |
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Forums are one of the best sources of the most current information on the web. Here are some of the most active GPS forums.
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| GPS Information Forum |
A good active forum with some experienced resident authorities. |
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| Groundspeak Forum |
Active forum particularly focused on geocaching but with plenty of great general GPS discussion. |
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| GPS City Forum |
Moderately active GPS forum. |
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| Handheld GPS Manufacturers |
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Listing of the main manufacturers of handheld GPS units.
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| Delorme |
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| Eagle GPS |
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| Lowrance |
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| Silva |
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| Trimble |
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| Garmin |
Currently the most popular manufacturer of handheld GPS units. Also the only manufacturer committed to compatibility with Mac computers. |
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| Magellan |
The second most popular manufacturer of handheld GPS receivers. |
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