Using Avenza Maps on Your Smartphone While Hiking

Rescheduled from November! Have you ever wondered about using trail maps on your phone? I am the Co-Chair of the PATC's GIS Committee (which updates PATC maps) and have been leading hikes for multiple organizations dating back to 2010. The PATC recently started publishing and selling updated versions of its maps electronically through the Avenza app. As a result, multiple members have asked me to lead an educational outing showing people how to use Avenza maps.

This time, we are going to start out in the Crozet Library's large meeting room to go over the basics of Avenza. If time permits, I'll also discuss the benefits of another mapping program: GaiaGPS. And I'll tell you why AllTrails is not nearly as good (except for their self-promotion, which is top notch!)

We have the library room from 9-10:30. Then we will head outside to the nearby Mint Springs Valley Park for a relatively short hike, so folks can practice using a free map on the Avenza app (depending on weather). Afterward, we will also try to have lunch at Crozet Pizza, but that is certainly optional.

Everyone starts on the waitlist. Priority goes to hikers who are:

• Current PATC Members
• Must be willing to download both the Avenza App and the Mint Springs map to your phone in advance of the event (both are free and I'll send instructions).

Details will be emailed to participants several days before the event.

Feel free to contact me with questions at jeffmonroe[[duck.com.](duck.com.)](http://%5Bduck.com.%5D(duck.com.)/)