GPS on the Jesus Trail

GPS (Global Positioning System) hand held devices receive signals from a network of satellites, allows travelers to locate themselves in relation to points on a map and navigate routes by simply following an arrow on the device’s screen.

The Jesus Trail has been mapped using GPS technology, making it possible for anyone to navigate the route.

If you have your own GPS unit, click here to download the GPS files for the Jesus Trail v3.0 (gdb, gpx and kmz formats), corresponding to the J1-8 routes listed and viewed with Google Maps on the Journey page. Corresponding KMZ files are listed under each “J” section and can also be downloaded for 3D viewing in Google Earth.

Garmin GPS units are available for rent from the Fauzi Azar Inn in Nazareth for 50 shekels/day with all current information on the Jesus Trail preloaded.

How to use a Garmin GPS on the Jesus Trail

1) Make sure you have fresh batteries (2-AA) in the GPS. A new set should last at least one full hiking day.

2) Turn on GPS by holding in the POWER button for a few seconds.

3) Use the PAGE button to advance to the ‘Satellite’ page. Allow a few minutes for the GPS to acquire satellites, which begins automatically. This may take several minutes and works best when you are outside and have a clear view of the sky.

4) Use the PAGE button to advance through pages until you reach the ‘Main Menu’ screen. Use the THUMB STICK to move directionally and press it in to select ‘Tracks.’

5) Use the THUMB STICK to move down into the ‘Saved Tracks’ box and highlight the desired J#. Push THUMB STICK in to select.

6) Do not select ‘OK,’ but instead highlight ‘TracBack’ and push the THUMB STICK in to select.

1. For etrex Legend: Highlight and select ‘To End’ using the THUMB STICK.

2. For etrex Vista: On the ‘TracBack’ screen, use the THUMB STICK to move the arrow to the point (destination for the J# or on route’s line) near the ‘End’ on the map screen. ZOOM in/out if necessary. When the arrow is on the end point, the point will become highlighted. Press the THUMB STICK in to select this destination and activate the ‘TracBack’ function.

The GPS should now be ready to navigate along the preloaded track.

7) Use the PAGE button to browse different navigation screens. These are the most useful:

1. ‘Map Page’ – The map’s preloaded track is visible on the screen. The triangle on the screen is where you are in relation to the preloaded track. Use the ZOOM buttons if necessary to show detail and perspective.

2. ‘Navigation Page’ – Shows a compass and arrow pointing in the direction you need to walk to follow on the preloaded track to your destination.

3. ‘Trip Computer’ – Shows a variety of data fields such as speed, distance, and time. Press the FIND button to reset.

After completing each J#, repeat steps 4-6 to load others.Garmin etrex Vista and Legend manuals:

http://www8.garmin.com/manuals/eTrexVista_OwnersManual.pdf http://www8.garmin.com/manuals/eTrexVista_QuickReferenceGuide.pdf http://www8.garmin.com/manuals/eTrexLegend_QuickReferenceGuide.pdf

Click here to download these instructions in printer-friendly PDF format.

Using a GPS with the Israeli grip and map datum:

Israeli topographical maps use two specific coordinate systems (old and new). To have your GPS set to match this system, use the following settings:

Set GPS grid to USR and Datum to USR. Under GRID enter:

Israel (old system):

Long. of Origin: 35° 12.724 E

False Easting: 170251m

Scale: 1.0

Fasle Northing: -2385259m

dx: -235m

dy: -85m

dz: 264m

da: -164m

df: -0.547

Israel (new system):

Long. of Origin: 35° 12.724 E

False Easting: 220251m

Scale: 1.0000067

Fasle Northing: -2885259m

dx: -235m

dy: -85m

dz: 264m

da: -164m

df: -0.547

03.05.2010