Custom Topo Maps

Before a trip I will usually purchase the topo map of the area as well as the canoe route map (this gets me in that pre-trip mood as i look the maps over weeks in advance).

I will then find the areas on the topo map I need and take them to a colour photo copy place. I get them to photocopy the areas of the topo I need (some refuse due to copyright law - most don't). then I transfer the canoe info like portages with lengths and campsites from the canoe map to the photocopies.

Then I waterproof the photocopies with some map waterproof stuff. With these new maps and a pair of compact binoculars I find navigation very easy. Only rarely do I pull out my compass to double check my location.

Peter Barthel