The Garmin inReach navigation is incredible on my new inReach Mini.
I took it out on a trail near Castle Rock, Colorado to put it to the test.
Garmin inReach Navigation Setup
This time I made sure to check and see if the maps were loaded on the Garmin inReach Mini before heading to the trail.
There’s really not much to say about setting up the navigation but I’ll do my best to tell you.
During the Garmin inReach Mini setup process, I was instructed to install the Earthmate app. I had to sync the app to my phone and to the Garmin inReach Mini. After that, it was super easy…other than forgetting to download the free maps.
My first trip to Roaring Creek with the Garmin Mine wasn’t a complete success because I forgot to download the maps, but on this second hike, I had downloaded the maps and the rest is history.
You have the option to set some waypoints, so I set a point for trailhead and also for the end of the trail. It also gave me the option set a route on the trail so it would be easier to follow it on my hike.
Garmin inReach Navigation Field Test
I arrived at the Mitchell Creek Canyon Trail and turned on the inReach Mini, then made sure it was synced with my iPhone.
I checked to make sure the map was visible on my phone and headed down the trail. I came upon an incredible canyon and decided to create my first waypoint. It’s easy to select any point on the map, then rename the waypoint and select the icon you want.
I selected the camera icon, and later I setup another waypoint for a camp site, followed by a binocular waypoint and lastly my last waypoint as another camera icon as it overlooked a beautiful valley atop a rock bluff.
It’s amazing how easy it is to follow the trail and create waypoints within seconds. You should buy the Garmin inReach Mini and see how easy it is yourself.
Step by Step Waypoint Creation
Follow me in this step by step process to set up a waypoint on the Earthmate app, on my phone.
Step 1
Select the location on your smartphone screen for you new waypoint.
Step 2
Select “New Waypoint”
Step 3
Edit the name of the new waypoint
Step 4
Select the correct icon for the waypoint
Step 5
Select “Done”, and your waypoint will be visible.
Garmin inReach Navigation Results
I finished the hike and returned home to take look at my map, waypoints, route and tracking and found everything to be accurate and as I had entered on the trail.
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables 2 way text messaging using the 100 percentage global Iridium network (satellite subscription required).Special Feature:Bluetooth.
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required). Display size-0.9 x 0.9 inch
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
- Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device, basic and premium weather packages available
- Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds. Display resolution: 128 x 128 pixels
- NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
You can learn more about the Garmin inReach Mini by checking out my Review HERE.
Final Thoughts
I have never found it so easy to navigate by with a satellite messenger before.
I thought being forced to sync my iPhone to have all the features that the Gamin inReach Explorer offers was going to be a problem, however, having the familiar iPhone interface and the large screen has been a real pleasure.
I’m now interested in how much I am going to like the Garmin inReach Explorer over my Garmin Mini. Stay tuned to hear what happens when my inReach Explorer arrives next month.
Take a look at this short YouTube video of the Garmin inReach Navigation.
Let me know what you think of the Garmin inReach Mini and the navigation features. Leave a Comment Below or send me an Email.
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First of all, the looks of this divice is really cool. I always do mountain biking and I’m very interested in having this type of GPS. I have only used the phone with its own GPS and it has not given me much result. Other types of GPS have also not served me for the trails and to track my routes
So I wanted to ask you if it is necessary to have the phone online? When synchronizing with GPS is it only to be able to see it on the phone screen? This route can then be uploaded to the web?
Is it compatible with Android too?
regards
Pablo
It is compatible with Android devices and you don’t need cell service.
I download the maps I need before leaving home but then you sync your phone to the Garmin device and hit the trail. Everything is available to you without having cell service, however, you won’t be able to call anyone, only messaging and using things like the topo maps and weather forecasting.
The Garmin inReach Mini is incredibly small but powerful and is easy to use.
Rick
unfortunately, I don’t have a ton of experience in hiking but have been looking at climbing some of the mountains in the state I am moving too! Up in Minnesota, we did not have a lot of great trails. Lots of wildlife and lakes, but not ideal for hiking. Unless you were way up by Canada.
But I was always a little scared, like will my cell phone work if I’m lost way out there by myself? What if you get hurt? I’ve heard of GPS for cars and golf courses. But didn’t realize it could be taken with you hiking too! Really would ease my mind a little bit out there. Thanks!
The Garmin inReach Mini and Explorer+ are made for hiking and other outdoor activities. They are extremely easy to use and have Global coverage, pole to pole.
I don’t go on any outdoor adventure anymore without one of these satellite messengers.
Rick
Thank you so much for sharing such a wonderful article with us. I am glad to see your article. Your article is really unique and informative. I have got a lot of information about Garmin inReach Navigation. You simply showed me how to set it up in your article which I liked very much and I enjoyed reading your article and gained valuable information. I think other people like me will benefit if you read this article. So I have bookmarked your website so that I can come back to your website later. I’ll share this article with my friends and I’ll share my new experience with you later. Thank you again for such a beautiful post.
Thank you so much for the compliments.
I have found my reviews are much easier to do when I actually own and test the devices in the field.
I have liked both the SPOT X and the SPOT Gen 3, but I have especially enjoyed using the Garmin inReach Mini.
Rick
Hi! Thank you for the reminder of download the maps. I would have committed the same mistake.
I appreciated the explanation on how to mark waypoints. It seems very easy and I like that we can pin each waypoint with different icons according to each case.
I have always liked Garmin as a brand but I found inReach very easy to use. Just what I need!
I’m glad you like it. I have been extremely impressed with the Garmin inReach Mini and I’m looking forward to seeing what the Garmin inReach Explorer+ can do next.
These are great devices and something that should be in everyone’s pack.
Rick