Tutorial for Garmin eTrex Legend HCx

The Garmin eTrex Legend HCx is a user-friendly hand-held GPS ideal for hiking and camping. The variety of functions allows for easy route management and tracking. You can also create your own maps with Garmin's mapping software for future use, or to share with others on GPS caching websites. While it may seem complicated at first, it's an intuitive tool similar to using cell phone features.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Manufacturer's directions
Manufacturer's directions

Step 1

Turn on your Garmin outdoors. The GPS needs to acquire a satellite signal. Power it up for the first time on a sunny day, if possible.

Step 2

Log on to the Garmin website to determine if any updated software is available. There is also a Mac section if you do not have a PC. You need to go to "Support" and click "Updates & Downloads" and then "Unit Software" to locate updates. From here, just follow the instructions and plug in your Garmin to the computer with the cord it came with. The Garmin website will automatically update your GPS.

Step 3

Hold the power key to turn it on, or press and release to manipulate backlighting. You can also view the battery charge, time and date.

Step 4

Locate the quit page button on the top right side of the Garmin. This allows you to get back to the last page you just accessed. It also allows you to cycle through page options including the map and satellite.

Step 5

Use the rocker to scroll through the menu options ranging from satellite, map, routes, compass, altimeter, stop watch, calculator, hunt and fish and many other options. The rocker is a small button on the front face of the GPS next to the eTrex logo. The rocker also serves to select letters and numbers when marking and labeling a waypoint.

Step 6

Work your way through the menu options to get accustomed to each option. Pay attention to the selection for Mark and Tracks. Mark allows you to mark a waypoint by hitting the rocker and labeling it accordingly. Tracks allows you to save and sort your tracks throughout your hike. Do a few practice hikes around the neighborhood to get used to these functions.

Step 7

Use the cord that came with the eTrex and upload your saved tracks to Garmin's Road mapping software options. These programs allow you to easily upload tracks and waypoints and allow you to see your journey.

Tips & Warnings

Keep extra batteries with you to fit into the back of the eTrex. Don't change your batteries until the ones in the GPS are completely dead. The Garmin automatically saves your tracks if you accidentally turn it off. Make the most use of your eTrex Legend HCx by thoroughly reading its manual.

Keep extra batteries with you to fit into the back of the eTrex. Don't change your batteries until the ones in the GPS are completely dead.

The Garmin automatically saves your tracks if you accidentally turn it off.

Make the most use of your eTrex Legend HCx by thoroughly reading its manual.

Resources

Article Written By Contributing Writer

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...