Trip Planning

For information on how to create your own maps for trip planning, see the mapping instuctions section.

GIS, GPS, and Remote Sensing data is used to produce maps. Routes are planned from this data, and can be uploaded to a GPS unit. Trip Planning allows for detailed routes that will aid in navigation of remote areas. Detailed planning reduces errors in navigation and provides an extra level of safety.

GPS Receiver GPS Receiver and hardware Oziexplorer Windows based mapping software

Trip planning requires GPS data which is uploaded to a GPS receiver. Waypoints are used for navigation to specific geographical points on earth. Tracks and routes are used for navigation through a series of ordered points along a line. Planned route data can be uploaded to a GPS receiver and displayed on the screen.

A route is planned on a map, uploaded to a GPS receiver, and displayed for the user on the screen. This GPS provides a visual reference and location of the user in reference to the waypoints or route planned from a map. For example, planning a hike on a trail through a mountain pass following specific terrain and elevation changes. This may be easy to determine on a map but difficult in the field.

While moving on the planned route, the GPS will navigate you on a planned path using an azimuth and distance between points in the route. This information is also displayed on the screen showing your current location along the route. The GPS guides your through a series of points on a line to your destination.

Better Data, Better Maps GIS, GPS, and Remote Sensing data is used to produce maps. Trips are planned using this data. This allows for detailed planning and reduces any possibilities of errors in navigation. Since maps are very limited in detail for many recreational areas of Alberta, the user can produce the material needed for sucessful adventures. For more information on using maps, see the mapping page.

3D Mapping Digital Elevation Modeling can be used to create 3D maps. With 3D mapping you can find most types of obstructions on a computer screen. Some features are harder to find than others, but knowing there might be a problem allows for advanced route planning. For more information on detailed trip planning, see the 3D trip planning page.