california.maps
![]() ![]() GPS systems |
![]() Choose the Right Forest click above |
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BenchMark Map is a must have! |
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the basics
- How to Read a Map & Signage
The Interstate System
- One & Two Digit Signs
Three Digit Signs
- Even # are east-west routers
- Odd # are north-south routers
- Business Loop
- Business Spur
- First digit even# = route through or around city
- First digit odd# = spur into a city
common abbreviations:
Interstate = "I"
Highway = Hwy.
State Routes = SR or CANote: Mile Markers (a.k.a. postmiles) for the most part go like this...
Even-numbered routes usually increase from west to east.
Odd-numbered routes, from south to north.
However, there are exceptions. For individual routes & their direction, see this Dept. of Transportation useful Table
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Dirt Roads are usually represented by light gray lines, thin double lines or even dashed double lines. Make sure you follow your desired route through to the end to make sure it doesn't extend to a dead end or result in a locked gate. Contact the local ranger or BLM office to find out about gate closures. Or even possible road closures. Familiarize yourself with Backroads / Forest Service Roads (usually dirt roads) if you are planning on heading into the mountains, deserts or back country areas. You may even want to check road conditions before you head out on your adventure. During summer months you are most likely to experience open roads without adverse conditions.
National Forest Service Maps are extremely helpful when venturing off pavement to dirt roads. Most really good primitive camping areas are located on these dirt side roads. Get off the beaten path & find that perfect meadow, waterfall or creek side spot.
Online Map Sources:
National Forest Maps - for sale online
Topo Maps on the Web:
Large Map Books of back country regions are becoming ever popular. Book maps, such as Thomas Brothers California, DeLorme or Benchmark cover the entire state!
But you best bet for super detailed coverage is still the areas BLM or Forest Service (NFS) maps.
Tom Harrison Maps are some of the best maps out there & they are tear-resistant plus waterproof, so they'll last.
GPS for Everyone:
How the Global Positioning System Can Work for YouRouting
Planning your road trip & what route you will take before you leave is advised. Re-routing & assessing the situation along the way at a dinner stop or roadside bathroom break is also helpful.
New technology producing great stuff: Global Positioning Systems are almost a necessity for logging that perfect trailhead or backwoods campsite.
All about GPS
global position system
Sherlock Holmes' Guide to the Global Positioning System
Get Driving Directions & Make your Own MapMapquest is only convenience! Make sure you have another map for cross referencing. Do not depend on MapQuest to be accurate or easy to read, esp. on the country & forests back roads.
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