Sipsey GPS reception "problem areas"

[Joshua Szulecki]

Something I think many people would find useful is a list of areas where you've had difficulty getting a GPS fix that you believe was due to the terrain, or due to a specific foliage factor unique to the area it occurred. Try to be as specific about the area as possible, erring towards the side of too much information. Adding which GPS you were using would also be useful.

Since Sipsey is notorious for signal issues due to the canyons, I'm betting at least some of you have found problem spots.

[Joshua Szulecki]

I too had trouble with Eagle Creek/Little Ugly Creek Canyon with both my Garmin eTrex (early model), and my Magellan Meridian Gold. I'm also looking into a new GPS, probably a Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx or 76CSx.

Do you recall where exactly in Eagle Creek Canyon you had trouble?

[Joshua Szulecki]

The Deer Skull/Little Ugly Falls area is pretty much surrounded by rock on all four sides, so I'm not shocked.

[cwhiker]

I have the Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx and I am yet to lose reception. although I haven't gotten out much since getting it this spring.

[Lostsheep]

I know for a fact, my outdated Magellan Gold has had issues around Auburn Falls. It was recording 30+' errors while hunting a geocache in that area a few weeks back.

Now in the winter, it's not so bad. I think the tree covers likes to play games with my unit. And that's another reason why I want CWHiker's GPS. I have my eye on the Garmin GPS map60CSx...

[Mountain Dog]

I have a Garmin Legend.  I had no problem getting a fix at the big tree.  I was sitting by a fellow with a Megellan and I do not think he ever got a fix.  Later in the day, I tried, to no avail, to get a fix where White Oak meets the Thompson Creek trail.  I never did get a fix.  The hiker with the Megellan came by and got a fix in a matter of seconds.  I've also experience this difference between manufacturers when hiking with a buddy in Tn. and N.C.   Sooooo, problem areas might also be related to the brand of GPS unit, or even its model, you use.  That said, I'd guess all units have problems in canyons if you are too near a wall for the unit to sight in on at least three satelites.

[McDowra]

My megellan explorer 500 has done pretty good so far. i have lost reception in some canyons, but move a few feet and everything is fine.

[Cuffs]

I have the Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx and I am yet to lose reception. although I haven't gotten out much since getting it this spring.

I have been all over Sipsey, in full leaf cover, with my 60csx and have yet to lose signal too.  There is a mapping project being undertaken by Wild South and they are having their guys hike all the canyons.  I believe they are all using 60csx's also and have yet to report any problems...

[Joshua Szulecki]

Cuffs,

That is good news!

Have you heard anything more about the mapping project? IRC, last I heard much of it was still being done by one man, and they weren't being clear about if they'd release the data in its entirety to the public.

[Cuffs]

I have not talked to Janice recently, so I dont know the answer to that.  But that gives me good reason to call her!  Will let you know what I find.

[Joshua Szulecki]

Cuffs,

BTW... Been a long time since we heard from you. Been up to anywhere interesting?

[Cuffs]

Just trying to finish my BMT sectioning and planning a 30miler on the PNRT for next weekend!  Logged about 300 miles in the last year...