Just realized the official PCT map shows a 2,650 mile trail but my GPS logged 2,703

I was checking my data from my Pacific Crest Trail section hike last fall, the part through Oregon. I was comparing my Garmin InReach tracks to the official Forest Service map I had printed. The map clearly says 2,650 miles end to end. My GPS track for just the Oregon section was way longer than the map said it should be. I added up all my daily logs and it came out over 50 miles extra for that state alone. I think it's because the map measures the center line of the trail, but when you're actually walking it, you weave back and forth, take little detours for water, and step off the path a lot. My actual footsteps covered way more ground than the perfect line on paper. It made me laugh thinking about how many extra steps I took for no reason. Has anyone else had their GPS track be significantly longer than the official distance for a route?

2 comments

2 Comments

dixon.felix2d ago

Center line of the trail" sounds right, your GPS just logged every little wobble.

leo_lopez1d agoTop Commenter

Wasn't there a study about GPS drift on hiking trails? I remember reading that consumer watches can add up to 10% extra distance. It makes sense that your actual path would be smoother.