Best software for creating my own maps?

[+HeyGeocacher]

Can anyone pint me in the right direction for good (possible free?/trial) software that would allow me to create my own maps for my Garmin eTrex Vista?

I was able to download free GIS data from my DNR in the following formats: .dbf, .prj, .sbn, .sbx, .shp, .shx

I know this is the data for geo features I just have no idea how/or where to import it.

Thanks.

nick

[+IndyJpr]

Can anyone pint me in the right direction for good (possible free?/trial) software that would allow me to create my own maps for my Garmin eTrex Vista?

I was able to download free GIS data from my DNR in the following formats: .dbf, .prj, .sbn, .sbx, .shp, .shx

I know this is the data for geo features I just have no idea how/or where to import it.

"All in one" software (have their own GUI and compiler):

http://www.mapwel.biz/

http://www.mapman.org.uk/

 

"The" compiler:

http://www.cgpsmapper.com/

 

GUI for compiler:

http://www.geopainting.com/en/

 

Tutorials:

http://home.cinci.rr.com/creek/garmin.htm

http://forums.Groundspeak.com/GC/index.php?showtopic=146955

http://www.gpsinformation.org/adamnewham/a...1/gpsmapper.htm

[+myotis]

Nick, you are from IL correct? So am I and I think I already have made the maps you want.

 

They are on line at http://mapcenter.cgpsmapper.com/maplist.php?author=4216

 

I also have them in a package and easy install at:

 

http://webpages.charter.net/jbensman/Maps.htm

 

I've got a POI map for geographic POIs for the state. I also have a transprent trail map for the state. I can add stuff to it pretty easy. What data are you wanting? If I don't have it already, there should not be a problem adding it. If you have any track files from trails or waypoints of places, it is real easy to add them to my maps, jsut email them to me. What are the DNR data sets you had?

[+HeyGeocacher]

Thanks guys. I will check it all out.

nick

[BuckyBuck]

 

I also have them in a package and easy install at:

 

http://webpages.charter.net/jbensman/Maps.htm

 

I downloaded your My Topos.zip file and see that it contains 84 .img files. I realize I'm missing something obvious, but what area do these topo files cover?

[+myotis]

If you installthem, you can see them in mapsource. But if you are up in Chicago, not much, only the Midwin National Tall Grass Prarie.

 

You never did say what kind of map you were wanting and what DNR data you were wanting to get in the map.