Chargriller

Hello, I was wondering if anyone here can help me? I just got my Garmin etrex legend (haven't even put the batteries in yet) and was planning to use it while horseback riding the back country in Oregon.

I was wondering if I can download other topo maps other than the Garmine MapSource or am I restricted to those only? I just saw at one of the local stores a set of National Geographic topo maps (1,900 maps 24:1 scale) for $ 79.95. But didn't want to spring for them and then find their not compatible with my unit?

Sorry for the newbie question...I used the search but didn't find what I was looking for.

Chargriller

I'll try and save somebody from wasting a response. I went and found on another sight that the only maps I can download onto the gps are MapSource maps.

There is a way to download my own custom made topo maps but I don't think I'm Techi enough to do that. Also the NG maps can be manipulated on your PC and waypoints and routes transfered but not the maps themselves.

Max

Sorry about missing this one but I am glad you were able to find an answer. Yes the Garmin maps are the only maps you can load onto the device for most purposes. There are ways to place your own overlays on some of the maps, and aftermarket (read: not legit) software products that let you do it yourself mapwise - but I've never done it myself.

Do you have a link to that National Geographic software though? I am interested in looking at it if you can provide some more info.

I must say I have been using Google Earth (free!) which accomplishes the same functions as listed above. Except just as NG there is no transferring of maps....however the next gen of Garmin handhelds are rumoured to have Aerial views that I believe will be sourced from Digital Earth (and Google) but we'll see.

Chargriller

No problem...heres a link..

http://www.swiftmaps.com/servlet/the-472/National-Geographic-Oregon-Topographic/Detail

Now I've learned that Magellan and NG have teamed up so that Magallen can import from NG!

I haven't tried the Google Earth stuff. I just assumed that being on dial up would be impracticle? When I get a little time I'll have to give it a 'look see'. Thanks.