The Art of Hiking - Hiking Alabama: A Guide to the State's Greatest Hiking Adventures - page 462

You can learn compass basics by reading the detailed instructions included with
your compass. If you want to fine-tune your compass skills, sign up for an ori-
enteering class or purchase a topic on compass reading. Once you've learned the
basic skills of using a compass, remember to practice these skills before you head
into the backcountry.
If you are a klutz at using a compass, you may be interested in checking out the
technical wizardry of the GPS (Global Positioning System) device. The GPS was
developed by the Pentagon and works off twenty-four NAVSTAR satellites, which
were designed to guide missiles to their targets. A GPS device is a handheld unit
that calculates your latitude and longitude with the easy press of a button. The De-
partment of Defense used to scramble the satellite signals a bit to prevent civilians
(and spies!) from getting extremely accurate readings, but that practice was dis-
continued in May 2000, and GPS units now provide nearly pinpoint accuracy
(within 30 to 60 feet).
There are many different types of GPS units available and they range in price
from $100 to $400. In general, all GPS units have a display screen and keypad
where you input information. In addition to acting as a compass, the unit allows
you to plot your route, easily retrace your path, track your travelling speed, find
the mileage between waypoints, and calculate the total mileage of your route.
Before you purchase a GPS unit, keep in mind that these devices don't pick up
signals indoors, in heavily wooded areas, on mountain peaks, or in deep valleys.
Also, batteries can wear out or other technical problems can develop. A GPS unit
should be used in conjunction with a map and compass, not in place of those
items.
Pedometers. A pedometer is a small, clip-on unit with a digital display that cal-
culates your hiking distance in miles or kilometers based on your walking stride.
Some units also calculate the calories you burn and your total hiking time. Pedo-
meters are available at most large outdoor stores and range in price from $20 to
$40.
Trip Planning