Trail maps used to be paper and pencil, now I stare at a phone

I started hiking the Appalachian Trail sections back in the late 90s, and my whole planning routine was a paper map, a compass, and a highlighter. Last month I did the 40 miles around Grayson Highlands and realized I didn't bring a single printed map. I still trace the route the night before on my phone, zooming in on every creek crossing, but it feels less connected to the ground. Do other folks here still carry a paper backup, or am I just clinging to old habits for no good reason?

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jesse_craig2212d ago

You ever tried pulling up a topo map when your battery hits 10% and you're still 6 miles out? That sinking feeling kind of forces the question, doesn't it? I still fold a paper map into my pack for any trip over 10 miles, and it's not about nostalgia. It's about having a backup that doesn't need a signal, and honestly, tracing a creek by finger on paper still feels more real to me than pinching the screen. Your mileage may vary, but I sleep better knowing both are in the bag.