Geocaching

• Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game that involves using a mapping GPS unit. Map coordinates and mapping GPS unit features are used in this game to find hidden treasures, or cache, that have been placed in a waterproof container in an out-of-sight location. These caches are usually replaced in different hiding spots by those who have successfully found them for others to locate. Many players, once the cache has been found, sign a log book to commemorate their participation in the game.
  
  

Capturing Memories

• Some mapping GPS devices combine the features of other electronic units, such as a digital camera, into the GPS for added functionality. For instance, Garmin's Oregon 550t mapping GPS unit is equipped with a 3.2-megapixel auto focus digital camera that not only captures those special moments on the trail, but preserves them in another way as well. Each picture taken by the Oregon 550t's camera is geotagged, enabling you to find the exact spot the picture was taken on future outings. The Oregon 550t features 850MB of memory, so there should be room for plenty of pictures. If not, the unit is equipped with a microSD card slot for expandable memory.
  
  

Hiking

• Serious and casual hikers use mapping GPS devices for their attention to detail. Because of their higher memory capacities, mapping GPS units are able to provide topographical details, such as elevation information, terrain contours, lakes, rivers and points of interest. National, regional and local park and forest information, and mapping is also one of the benefits of using a mapping GPS. Most of these features are included on a mapping GPS, but with limited coverage. Expanded coverage is possible by loading additional maps from a desktop or laptop computer onto the device.
  
  

Compass

• As if knowing exactly where you are and where you're going wasn't enough, mapping GPS devices also put one of the oldest navigational tools known to man in your hands: the compass. For example, the Oregon 550t is equipped with a built-in three-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass that shows the direction you're headed without you having to hold it level. While it provides old-time navigation features, the 550t's compass also uses modern-day technology, a built-in altimeter, to track your exact altitude and changing barometric pressures to keep you informed about changing weather patterns.