Redwoods Mtn Biker

It sounds like you're looking for an auto unit, which isn't a great choice for geocaching. And the 885 is discontinued. There are significantly better models out there now.

Hmm, maybe this will help... http://forums.Groundspeak.com/GC/index.php?showtopic=289137

The newer models add paperless caching, BirdsEye aerial and USGS topo capabilities, improved track navigation, a better user interface, and the ability to use different profiles.

+1

There is an issue with the Garmin Communicator plugin with Macs. Either use the earlier version (3.0.1) available at http://www.gawisp.com/perry/garmin_uilities/ Or use the new beta... https://forums.garmin.com/showpost.php?p=122541&postcount=4

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=69365

What rsaxvc said.

I use the newer style Garmin "folding" friction mount. It has a slightly "sticky" bottom. If it gets dirty and doesn't stick so well, you just wash it off and it's good as new.

Yes, go for the eTrex 10. You'll get a USB interface instead of serial, and paperless caching.

I stand corrected then. Sure would be nice of Garmin to indicate that it does paperless caching on their website or in the manual. They might even sell a few more!

@rsaxvc - Do you have a Rino or a Dakota?

The easiest thing to do is use pocket queries and then drag and drop the resulting .gpx file.

Yes, the interface is more like the Oregon and 62s. But no, it does not offer paperless caching.

Of the three product lines mentioned, the Oregon is the only one with a recessed screen, making it significantly less likely to end up with a broken screen. All depends on how it hits the rock though!

Is the problem that it's not locking onto GPS?

The routable roads on the 24K maps are nice.

There's a problem with the Garmin Communicator plugin. You can go to an earlier version or use their beta version... http://forums.Groundspeak.com/GC/index.php?showtopic=290028&st=0&p=4966614entry4966614 Better yet, start using pocket queries unless you just want to download a few caches.

You'll only get a "beep" at turns without the speaker/mount.

You're a premium member, so you might want to learn to use pocket queries. Much easier than one at a time IMHO. http://geocaching.com/pocket

My impression is that the Oregon is a bit more rugged than the Dakota. IIRC, the Dakota screen is flush, whereas the Oregon's is recessed. This could explain why I've heard more complaints of busted Dakotas.

I'd skip the Garmin 24K maps and try some of the free ones from http://gpsfiledepot.com instead. You may also want the auto mount kit.

First of all, handheld GPS receivers are by their very nature quite complex. Whatever you get, plan on using it extensively to get used to it and learn its functions before heading off into the wilderness. Second, I agree that Garmins, especially the newer models, are quite user friendly. Even so, expect quite the learning curve. You might want to consider a model that allows the use of BirdsEye aerial imagery, which could come in handy in an area with many coves, etc. The 78s is likely to be out of your price range. The 62s would be good, but still over $300 unless you find it on sale. Otherwise, I think I'd look at at the eTrex 20 or 30.

There are better models out there to look at, but you'll still need to preload caches.

You still have to geo-reference them though.

You can go in and enable or disable individual maps. You'll need to rename them upon loading as kb6ooc said.