How do I Autoroute Trails with the Garmin TOPO Map 60CSX?

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Garmin Electronics makes products ranging from fish and depth finders to handheld GPS units like the 60 CSx. One function of particular use to backcountry explorers and adventurers is the auto route. This feature drops electronic waypoints in its map memory so you can use the track to find your way home. It is possible to set it to drop these signals in varying intervals, letting you decide how much of the unit's memory gets used during the trip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Press and hold the "On" button until the Garmin 60CSx display screen comes up.

Step 2

Press the "Menu" button, quickly, twice in a row and wait for the menu display to appear on the screen. Use the Garmin rocker control to highlight the Routes selection off the menu. Scroll to the Navigate selection with the rocker clicker, highlight it and release.

Step 3

Name the new route you will auto record using the drop down menu and the Garmin rocker clicker control. Highlight "Save" and release.

Step 4

Press "Menu" twice, again quickly. Find and select the "Tracks" option using the Garmin rocker clicker control. Highlight it and release. Click the "Set-Up" menu option using the rocker. Select the "Most Often" tracks option to drop the tracks on the auto route at the maximum amount of tracking.

Step 5

Press "Menu" twice. Pull up the Maps selection with the rocker clicker. You can now track and watch your waypoints being dropped. Find the Trac-Back option, select and highlight it with the rocker clicker. The unit will now show you your position on the route and give directions on how to follow back to your original starting position.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

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