OpenStreetMap
I discovered (via gpsvisualizer.com) that some trails are visible in OSM. Since backpacking is my favorite hobby, I have a lot of knowledge of trails in my region, and I want to experiment with adding data.
I've just modified the JMT/PCT at the Wood's Creek crossing to note the suspension footbridge at that crossing. since fords can make this trail problematic early in the season, knowing where bridges are versus fords might be useful.
Discussion
Comment from maxolasersquad on 13 August 2011 at 16:40
Mapping is a great way to add another layer of awesomeness to hiking. It really forces you to pay more attention to the details of your area and memorize them so that you can then go home and add them to the map.
Comment from Vincent de Phily on 15 August 2011 at 09:05
You'll soon also be exploring the less-traveled area just because they aren't maped yet *"come on, it's only a 2-hours detour"). And keep the map in your head at all times (even more so than usual), honing your orienteering skills. Have fun ! But don't forget to keep enjoying the scenery :)
Comment from MrRedwood on 15 August 2011 at 09:22
Well, I think I can resist that. Last September when I did the Rae Lakes loop I included some serious side trips in to the 60 Lakes Basin, Charlotte Lake and Lake Reflection. But I want to concentrate on the hikes others might be more likely to do, especially "named" hikes. On the other hand, I think I've *done* most of those...
Also, I'm tending to push my less-traveled hikes towards where there aren't any trails at all (e.g., the 60 Lakes Basin). So I'll be mostly mapping based on memory and some old GPS traces.
That being said, I'm s'posed to be starting the JMT in less than a month, so I guess I still haven't done all the "common" stuff.