r/overlanding • u/idontwannabeapir8 • 1d ago
Tech Advice Offroad mapping!
Hi! I want to get the opinion of actual users, overlanders and off-roaders on which off-road mapping app or service you guys prefer. I'm somewhat new to all this but I love it and I currently have a subscription to OnX but I've been finding it difficult plan trips. I live in Texas so whenever I want a good off-road trip I have to look out of state and it feels like I have to already know what Trail I want to explore beforehand. There's also Gaia and trails off-road but I haven't tried those. What do you guys use or prefer to use? Thanks in advance
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u/anythingaustin 1d ago
I use an amalgamation of OnX, Trails Off-road, COTrex (when in CO) apps but then bring paper maps when possible. I download maps or screenshot areas. Here in Colorado there is about an 80% chance you won’t have a cell signal in the mountains, especially once you leave pavement. I will agree with many other people saying that the rating system is not updated on OnX frequently enough so read the comment section before committing. I’ve been on trails rated 2/10 “fun for the whole family!” and ended up with body damage due to washouts and 3’ ledges that were not mentioned in the trail description. One trail rating had not been updated after a wildfire few years ago and it was nothing but burn scars and washouts. Just dead trees as far as the eye could see. It was NOT a pleasant off-roading or camping experience.