I’ve used Butler Maps for years and have a large collection. The maps in my library are all printed in conjunction with Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR). BDR supplies the GPS tracks for free (but please support the organization) and Butler compliments these tracks with printed maps of territory on and around the BDR Route. Used together, it turns a rider with the worst sense of direction into a navigational wizard.
Butler just released a new map, the $21.95 Southern California Best Dirt Roads Adventure Series Map. This is the first map I’ve purchased from Butler that is a stand-alone map. Just like the BDR Butler Maps, this one is printed on durable, waterproof, tear-resistant paper that is up to the demands of on-the-trail usage. And just like the BDR maps, be prepared to spend a few hours purusing the suggested rides with the map spread out on your office, bedroom or workshop floor.
MISSING FROM THE MAP
The Washington BDR was my first BDR ride and I did it using only the printed map. I learned quickly that people love to vandalize road signage, foliage grows over signs and you will encounter intersections that don’t have any signage. This is when a rider needs a GPS device to point out the correct route.
Butler Maps claims “our team rides countless miles for each map.” So why not share their GPS tracks with riders who buy the map? Even if Butler charged an extra fee for the GPS tracks, I would certainly upgrade. The Southern California Best Dirt Roads Adventure Series Map shows an epic route to the east of Bakersfield that I wish came with a GPS track. It looks simple enough on the map. I can’t believe it will be that simple once you are out there.
YOU PROBABLY STILL WANT ONE
I have two buddies who saw my Southern California Best Dirt Roads Adventure Series Map and ordered their own the same day. The map should open your eyes to rides you didn’t know existed so I still recommend getting one.
The company says they want feedback on their maps. My feedback: Give us those GPS tracks, please.
