In last month's issue, we covered the basics of running established trail systems using a trail map, a compass and your wits. In this month's Outdoors, we're going to touch on the basic tools you need to keep your bearings on a remote, unmarked trail system (for example, the fire roads of Colorado or the vast network of off-road trails running through Baja).
The essential tools are good maps (preferably an overview map and a topographic map), a compass, a small notebook, a pen and a GPS system. You can navigate without a GPS, of course, but the basic units are only a hair above $100 and are an indispensable backup when you are off the beaten path.
Your overview map should cover all the territory you plan to ride. This is your basic planning map. Examples are USDA Forest Service and national forest maps. You can usually find these at the local tourist office, riding club, ranger station or Forest Service office. You can often find them online from the Forest Service (www.fs.fed.us) or U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) (www.usgs.gov).
Depending on the scope of your trip, you may need to sketch out your route. If you are simply exploring an area, this isn't as crucial, but long point-to-point journeys require preparation. You'll need to go over the route you'll cover, estimate mileage and figure out where to get gas. Most of the time, you can plan to hit gas stations on the way. In some cases, you may need to place caches of gas along your route. Be sure to allow at least a 20 percent margin of error. When you are on an adventure, things can (and will) go awry.
Finding gas stations can require some research. Some maps have them marked, but those stations may have closed since the map was made. Contact a local business owner, park ranger, Department of Natural Resources official or tour operator. Any of these people are good sources of local info. Bear in mind that anything goes at gas stations in remote areas-they might close early or not open at all. Attendants tend to be the owners-if an emergency comes up, or the operator is sick or simply does not feel like opening, you can end up stranded. Baja is notorious on this front. Gas stations close for no apparent reason, and we've experienced all of northern Baja simply being out of gas: "No tengo nada."
With ATVs, you have the advantage of being able to carry extra fuel. The aftermarket makes flat packs, gas carriers and other goodies that can help extend your range. Take advantage of those! If nothing else, strap a 5-gallon can to your rig.
Once you have a route laid out and plans in place for fuel, you need to determine whether you require more-detailed maps. I've had experienced riders recommend traveling Baja with nothing more than the AAA Baja Map, which provides an overview of the entire peninsula and shows most of the roads, main trails, cities and gas stops. This is ample for most situations, but I like the security of also having topographic maps, which show changes in elevation and significant landmarks such as lakes, rivers and even most small trails. This allows you to pinpoint your location in a way not possible with maps that provide a broad overview (such as highway and state forest maps). The best way to bring along topo maps is to download them onto your GPS system. You'll need a GPS that has the capability of downloading maps to do this. The better handhelds (Garmin e-trex Legend and Rino 120, Magellan Sportrak Map) have 6 to 8 megabytes of storage for topo maps and retail for less than $200. Note a wonderful motorcycle GPS, the Garmin V Deluxe, has been heavily discounted lately and can be purchased for less than $300. At the very least, if you do use a more-general area map, be sure it shows latitude and longitude so you can use your GPS to figure out your location.