Series: Benchmark
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: National Geographic Maps; 2014 edition (January 1, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0929591623
ISBN-13: 978-0929591629
Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 0.5 x 15.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (84 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #31,194 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #22 in Books > Travel > United States > West > General #41 in Books > Reference > Atlases & Maps > United States #54 in Books > Reference > Atlases & Maps > Travel Maps
The Benchmark series of road atlases, which now cover most of the western states, have--in my opinion--nudged out the older de Lorme maps as the best guide to where you're going and what your choices are when you hit the road. The de Lorme series uses contour lines where the Benchmarks use color and shading to show topography, and since the former is a bit more precise I might prefer the de Lorme if I were on foot. But for traveling by vehicle, the Benchmarks win handily for their clearer depictions of the roads, and more accurate indication of where particular roads rank in the hierarchy--so you know whether you will be turning onto a paved two-lane with painted median or a one-lane gravel road which might be miles of muck or dust, depending on the weather. (If you are venturing way out on the unpaved roads, however, you should be aware that Benchmarks are no substitute for the more detailed BLM/NFS maps with road numbers and section grids.) My hobby and passion is motorcycle touring, and I am always looking for the interesting, new-to-me roads less traveled. Though they (like the de Lormes) take up a lot of space, especially on a bike, Benchmarks are the tool of choice for me. Good maps contain a massive wealth of information. They repay close scrutiny. I like to "read" mine in the tent at night when I am on the road, reviewing where I've been and savoring the options for tomorrow's adventure.
Good morning to all who put together the new "Benchmark" Oregon Road and Recreation Atlas, 4th Edition.The frustrations I encountered with previous and existing maping systems were that most of the time you could not know exactly were you were, or how to get to some place just using the map or GPS units due to lack of GPS co-ordinates, road I.D. and or identifieable exits. This atlas certainly does a good job of correcting this problem. Due to limited space on any atlas it is difficult to I.D. all roads and trails; but I find that I can locate an area quite well in the manner you have displayed. I would like to see more mileage markers on the landscape maps, as these are the pages I live with when backroading. When an emergency arises and you are between distant points, when there are no GPS co-ordinates the shortest and fastest routes are important. I would also like to see a comprhensive emergency page included that would guide drivers who are unfamiliar with the state how to prepare for the worst, and unforseen circumstances that can arise unespectedly i.e. appropriaate vehicle, food, tires, fuel, clothing, mapping systems and equipment, and when to drive or not drive in certain areas.Thanks again for going the extra mile of effort,design and quality of info to make this atlas the best I have experienced. I recommend it be a part of the emergency survival kit.Thanks again for a job well done, Merle Simmons
Whether your passion is backpacking, 4WD, overlanding, camping or other activity that takes you outdoors, I highly recommend these over the DeLormes. Benchmarks have an entire section on state recreation areas, and very clearly show park & BLM boundaries as well of course as all the roads. It is an excellent tool for planning your adventure.As others have said, these do not replace detailed maps such as USGS quads, or other highly detailed maps. These are atlases, and when used correctly can help you find where you want to go & how to get there.
I bought this to fill out my set of Benchmark atlases. I like them very well. I also have DeLorme for the same states. The atlas families complement each other. Benchmark has much more geophysical data and also shows more of areas which adjoin the title map. DeLorme shows the roads better.Sincerely,dwahl
Product details said this would be the 2009 5th edition, but they sent me the very latest 2014 6th edition. Very cool - thanks.(I used to choose Delorme, which is a little better for clarity of roads and has topo/elevation lines, but I'm very outdoorsy/adventurous and find that these Benchmark maps are actually better. More obscure details/campgrounds/features are listed/labeled, the roads are plenty clear to me, and there a plenty of elevation markings for significant features. The graphics/shading of the Benchmark maps are fantastic, compared to the flatness of the Delorme maps. Hardcore backcountry explorers might want both.)
From a hunter's perspective:This thing is very good for overviewing the state, and figuring out where might be good to hunt. It has the 'GMU' (game management unit) boundaries, national park vs. state park, and other helpful info. If you decide to buy this to help you out while you are hunting, know that it does not go detailed enough to show every little road and whatnot. Buy a specific detailed map of any area you expect to spend a lot of time in. But, for a semi-detailed overview map, this thing is super helpful
this is my defacto map for both directions and information about recreation sites in Oregon. The map is easily readable though a small magnifying glass is recommended for the really small print. There is a companion map that is easier to carry in the car. The book/atlas is perfect for trip planning and details while en-route.
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