Digital Data for Devices Release

May 7, 2015

In the summer of 2014 we conducted a test of GPX data on one of the routes in the Adventure Cycling Route Network. Over the winter, while producing the print version of the Bicycle Route 66 maps, we combed through the feedback and distilled it to new downloadable products released on April 27: Tracks and Services Points.

At this time, the data is only available for Bicycle Route 66 and Idaho Hot Springs Mountain Bike Route. We will be releasing more routes as time permits. The original GPS data is still available for all routes not yet converted to the new format under the heading Routes and Service Points.

Tracks and Services Points are an improvement on the GPS waypoint data we’ve been distributing since 2003. Each download is comprised of high resolution track data and enhanced service points. Both may be used on a GPS device, smartphone or tablet as well as your PC or Mac for planning purposes.

Sample track as displayed in Garmin Basecamp.

The track will display as a line on your screen that you can follow. When the GPS function is activated on your device of choice, an indicator will show your location in relation to that line. You will know very quickly if you have veered off route.

Sample service points (with track) as displayed in Locus Pro.

The service points have been upgraded by giving them more intuitive names and adding contact information.

In addition, we now offer extensive support pages to help you get started with the data on your device. These include instructions on how to use the new data on popular mobile and GPS devices, edit GPX tracks and a list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Though the Tracks and Service Points data are an improvement over the previous offerings, we still recommend using them in conjunction with the paper maps. Many of our testers last summer were glad to have both data and paper maps at hand. While the Tracks let them know whether or not they were on the right trail, and the Service Points made it easier to locate services, the digital devices were not always reliable. Also, there is more information on the map than could be packed into the GPX data for now.

We hope you will be pleased with our efforts in this product. It has been a joint effort among Routes & Mapping, IT and Sales staff as well as considerable volunteer support. If you have questions or feedback for us, please send it to cartographyATadventurecyclingDOTorg or use the Routes & Mapping department drop down in the Contact Us form.

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GEOPOINTS BULLETIN is written by Jennifer 'Jenn' Milyko, Routes & Mapping Assistant Director, and appears once a month, highlighting curious facts, figures, and persons from the Adventure Cycling Route Network with tips and hints for personal route creation thrown in for good measure. She also wants to remind you that map corrections and comments are always welcome via the online Map Correction Form.