How to Create Maps for Garmin Etrex H using Apple Mac

This section was provided by my friend Peter Mill, who was finding that his Mac was not well catered-for by GPS software.
He managed to track down the answers he wanted and it seems useful to quote them here.
(A link to the original information is also given)

 

Stage 1

 

• Go to Website www.gpsvisualizer.com and select "draw on a map – use GPS visualizer’s Sandbox to create your own GPX or KML file"
• Important to insert location and then magnify the world map
• Use the waypoint and track icons to create route and then save as GPX or KML files
• It may be necessary to switch off pop up window blockers to download files

 

 

Stage 2

 

• Go to Website www.everytrail.com and upload the GPX.XML file you created with GPS Visualizer.  Save it as public or private and then download it from this site. You now have a GPX file suitable for upload to you handheld GPS.
• It may be necessary to switch off pop up window blockers to download files

 

 

Stage 3

 

• Connect Garmin Etrex H to mac using USB Serial cable, Switch on Etrex and then open Application "Loadmy Tracks" (http://www.cluetrust.com/LoadMyTracks.html).  Select File/Save File to Device/Choose File and then upload to Garmin Etrex H.

 

 

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It is also useful to upload the KML file to "Google Maps" to give someone a copy.  Sign in to Google Account and the choose My maps and create new map by uploading the KML file created in GPS Visualizer.

 

Everything above was learned through visiting: www.tommangan.net

 

If waypoints need to be edited on the Extrex H, the website www.streetmap.co.uk is useful for any UK walks.  The  "Move Arrow" feature allows you to pinpoint the exact coordinates.  Use the "Click Here to Convert Coordinates" feature to obtain the units that will match those selected for your Extrex H.  Also right click in Google Maps and use "What’s Here" and use mouse pointer over inserted mark.

 

Format for Google Earth Searches

 

Enter Garmin waypoint locations as in the following example:  53 11.546N, 001 41.823W for Lathkil Hotel in Over Haddon. [SK205644 on Ordnance Survey Grid]