Does anyone know if this is possible and how I would go about doing it? I downloaded the GPX files from the Adventure Cycle web site but I'm not sure how accurate they are. If they are accurate, how can I combine them all into one master route?
Hi Rob,
I'll start this off with a couple of pointers. Check out the map of all ACA routes linked on the Routes and Maps page of the web site as a base for the master map. You or a friend who has an image editing program could easily add the digital equivalent of a highlighter pen on this PDF to show people.
Using the GPX routes in general and combining them in particular have extensive discussion in the GPS group. Browsing there will get you most of what you need and pointers to other good sources.
The big red flag in your note is "individual days in MapMyRide." Do you intend to plan each day before you leave home? If you are going unsupported, as most of us do, this is plain impossible. Too many unforeseen events--some bad, many good--will change the best-laid plan. With motorized support, it's possible but will occasionally require a lift to get to each night's stop, and could well fail to meet the schedule even then.
Or do you intend to stay flexible and make up the MapMyRide routes every day or two along the way? Certainly possible if you find an Internet connection every day or two (dial-up in the hinterland), but needing significant time out of days when your main interests will be ride, eat, sleep ... repeat.
The ACA maps are the best navigation tools. GPS is a good supplement, especially when going off route, but always ancillary.
Your plan sounds great, and this is the place to learn from a
lot of experience. Have a wonderful ride and have a lot of fun planning it.
Fred