GPS on the Water - How to Navigate on Lakes and Rivers
When you think of GPS, you probably imagine a small screen in a car telling you which intersection to turn at. That is certainly one of the most popular ways to use a GPS - as it should be! But what if your interests are a little more, shall we say, "off-road"? How do you use a GPS in the wild, and how can you use these devices especially if you're planning on taking them out on the lake or the river - or both? Here's a brief guide to using GPS off the land.
First, you'll want to keep your GPS dry so that water doesn't get into it and damage any of the electronics inside. If you plan on taking your GPS device out in your canoe or boat, you'll want to ensure it stays safe, so have a place you can store it if need be. If you're wearing a small GPS device such as a portable GPS in your mobile phone, you can simply keep it in your pocket - just make sure it's secure so that it doesn't fall out. Zipping pockets work well for this. (For more information on using GPS in the water, check out Mighty GPS.
Next, if you're planning a route, you'll want to do a little land reconnaissance. What does that mean? It simply means you should scout out your water rout to make sure there aren't any obstacles or dangerous areas of a river or lake that you wouldn't necessarily see on your GPS system. GPS maps can leave out details when it comes to wildlife, so you'll have to do your own research. Even if you plan on using a small lake or stream, it's always advisable to make preparations and ensure that you won't head into any testy waters.
If you're doing something physical like canoeing, you'll want to make sure that you have a route planned out that won't require too much physical exertion. Don't overestimate your abilities, because you may find the trip back to camp very trying. Instead, it's better to know your limits. If you're using a GPS device to help you train, you can use it to your advantage by recording how far you're going - you don't necessarily need to go in a streamlined route that might take you far from where you need to be.
Ultimately, a GPS device can help you navigate, record how far you've gone, and minimize risk, but there's always going to be risk when it comes to adventures in the outdoors. Be smart about how you use your GPS and you should find it a great ally, instead of an enemy.
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