Map with 528' Circumference Around Caches

[+XopherN71]

Anyone know if it's possible (and if so, how) to put a 528' circumference marker around caches in order to easily see if you're clear for placing a cache? Maybe even some add-on to Google Earth to put a perimeter marker.

 

If not, perhaps a good idea for the geocaching.com Google map as a layer to enable/disable?

Edited April 18, 2008 by XopherN71

[+StarBrand]

Still wouldn't show stages of multis and puzzle caches. That and there really are (a few) exceptions to the guideline.

 

I've seen a density map suggested to highlight areas for cache placement.

[BRTango]

There is a GSAK MACRO that will do that for you.

[+PhxChem]

I usually estimate using the scale at the bottom of the map........

[+XopherN71]

SWEET - Thank You!

 

I knew there had to be a better way than Google Earth and the 'ruler' tool

 

Now to find that macro and download GSAK*.

 

* Yes, I'm one of the few that haven't used the program yet.

 

Definitely aware that this won't be a solve all bullet proof solution, but it does narrow it down since there's no way to tell where the multi or puzzle caches are without first submitting yours (another thread, I know).

Edited April 18, 2008 by XopherN71

[+SeventhSon]

MapSource has the ability to put a .1 mile proximity circle around caches, if you use that software.

[+XopherN71]

MapSource can do this as well? Oh wow, I'll have to go look again, I didn't see it.

 

Thanks

[+sbell111]

I'm pretty sure that MapPoint can do this.

[+OReviewer]

In mapsource, right click on the waypoint and hit the waypoint properties button.

 

Uncheck the "Unknown" box in the Proximity Line. Add 0.1 as the proximity and you will have a nice red 528 circle around the cache!

[+Renegade Knight]

...* Yes, I'm one of the few that haven't used the program yet....

 

You are not alone. I only ever used GSAK to compile a GPX file with all my finds and logs. I've never tapped into even 1% of what it can do.

 

You could probably automate MicroStation or Autocad to do this with an imported list of caches for your areas. You would have to overlay it with arial mapping or topo...Lots of work but once the macro was done.

 

I suspect you could do the same with GIS Software. There are some free GIS viewer programs that may be able to have a community support for such a thing. The key problem being you need to look at all caches in an area and really could not afford to circle them all one at a time.

 

It's an interesting problem to solve. Perfect for an API for this site.

 

Plan b is to just use your GPS when you are in the field to see what's close.

Edited April 18, 2008 by Renegade Knight

[+XopherN71]

Would you look at that!

 

Thanks for the 0.1 tip, I tried .1 and it didn't like that

 

Perfect... thanks, this is exactly what I needed.

Edited April 18, 2008 by XopherN71

[+Super_Nate]

What is the GSAK macro that will do it? What do I type in? I use GSAK, but I don't know about the many tricks sometimes. I too have wanted to see a map that could do a .1 proximity!

[+The Jester]

You can do the circle thing in MS Streets & Trips (radius circle). On the different garmin GPSr's I have I can do the same thing, very hand when in the field.

[+XopherN71]

I just went to GSAK's website, clicked on the MACROS link on top and boom, there it was

http://gsak.net/board/index.php?showtopic=...ost&p=47757

Edited April 18, 2008 by XopherN71

[+Isonzo Karst]

Expert GPS also will draw a circle of any specified size around a point.

[+Team LaLonde]

Thanks for the tip on the proximity circles! It has many more uses, as well. For instance, you could check the proximity of a cache to railroad tracks, etc.

[+XopherN71]

Exactly

 

I had a problem with that once already, just a tad too close (ok way too close but still).

 

It will also give me a good display of a grouping that might be good to bring the kids too, (a bunch within walking distance for example).