Android GPS/Tracking app?

[widefat]

What do you use for a GPS android app?
What I need specifically -
an app that stores multiple waypoints
The ability to enter in lat/long coordinates and have the app guide me to said coordinates
Maps
Would be nice to mark locations on a map.
Geared toward outdoors/hiking would be a big plus.

tia

[SHMIV]

I rarely use my phone GPS; if I tried that, I'd likely end up looking at an overpass that I can't under, or trying to take a narrow turn that I can't get my truck around.

I use a Garmin DEZL and a Rand McNally something or another. They are both programed to give me truck friendly routes... in theory, anyway.

I would suggest an actual GPS, anyway. The Android app is a great backup, but I have found that using it can be inconvenient.

[ Post made via Mobile Device ]

[SHMIV]

Just caught the part about hiking... I still suggest a dedicated unit. I believe that Garmin makes a unit specifically for hiking/outdoor stuff.

I also suggest a map and compass.

[ Post made via Mobile Device ]

[widefat]

Thanks SHM, I do have a Garmin and actually do still use a map and compass. I just wanted something for my phone also.

[Rualert]

Just a quick search showed at least half a dozen dedicated hiking/biking mapping aps for Android. I personally don't use any, but it appears there are several to choose from, some endorsed by different hiking groups, etc.

Casey

[zykur]

I use Backcountry Pro for Android. It works well if you have data service like most GPS apps not so good if you are out of your coverage area.

[widefat]

Tried a couple over the weekend. What a pain in the pud. Between service dropouts, GPS dropouts, and hitting phone buttons and touching the screen by accident, I had enough. They would be good if I ever got lost on the way home from work, but beyond that - hard to beat purpose built, dedicated units.

[SHMIV]

Smartphone apps are like pocket multi-tools. Yeah, that little, fold out screwdriver may come in useful on occasion, but having a real screwdriver is much better.

If your going to take your phone hiking with you, having appropriate apps installed on your phone can't hurt. The technology is there, so why not? Having something for backup is generally a good idea.

[ Post made via Mobile Device ]

[jdonovan]

I rarely use my phone GPS; if I tried that, I'd likely end up looking at an overpass that I can't under, or trying to take a narrow turn that I can't get my truck around.

what are you doing off the national network... get back where ya belong

I've got a friend who live on a goat path, er. county road, that by all maps is a through road. The locals only consider it a through road if what you're driving has hooves. About once a year a 53' van gets stuck trying to go through, and its about 6 hours, and 3 tow trucks to get it back to the pavement.

[WVUBeta1904]

..service dropouts, GPS dropouts..

I anticipated this would be your biggest obstacle. It seems that when it comes to nature, the most simplistic devices are always the most useful. Mother Nature's a B.

[Swampman]

Hey Widefat! I've got a good one for you to try. My job takes me out in the woods, including the deep woods. Spent a year up in north-central PA walking around finding stuff for the natural gas drillers. Bears, deer and bobcat were more prevalent than humans.

Got an Earthmate PN-60 unit. It's small (1.625 x 1.375 inch screen), but it carries easily and the zoom feature works well. It is put out by Delorme and has standard topo maps loaded into it. For a $30 annual subscription you can get aerials of wherever you are going, which makes navigation easier. It has a tracking feature so you can see where you've been, the ability to add waypoints, and the ability to get you back to your start point. Also comes with Delorme software that you can upload all your data to be saved.

Only drawback I've found so far is batteries. Tried rechargeables, and they don't hold up. I use Energizer Ultimate Lithium and carry spares with me. When I used it all day every day, a couple of batteries lasted me 2-3 days. The way I use it now, a pair lasts me a month.

Hope this helps.