so I am planning on spending my 3 weeks vacation this year on my bike traveling from Oregon to the southeast (Texas/Georgia) I am looking for a map that will show ALL roads, even the little gravel kind (I hope those are marked) Any suggestions on which one is the best?

 

Do you have a H.O.G. Touring Handbook? Not quite as big as an Atlas, but seems very thorough. I assume you're going to have some kind of luggage with you to carry things so this wouldn't take up too much space.

One thing I like to use is Google Earth. You can really see details with it when you zoom in. I've used them before. Just plan your routes out early, and print off screen shots of the areas you want to ride. I've actually found attractions to check out by doing this.

 

You best bet is a gps. You won't find state maps with that kind of retail.

 

You won't find a map that shows "all roads".
You'll need a county map, if you want to see most of the smaller county roads.
State maps might show a few major county level roads, but not many.
If you were to put every road of any state on one map, it would have to be the size of your living room if you wanted to read it all.

A GPS is your best option for showing every road that you get close too.

 

You need a GPS map of each state. We used one for baja that showed every hiway, dirt road and goat trail in the two states. Try to find something like that for the US States.

 

I like the idea of GPS maps. But I hope they're more accurate than GPS units. I don't trust them at all. Followed GPS units before that just plain got us lost. If you plug my work address into a GPS unit (doesn't matter which one), it will take you to a whole other city. Plus, GPS units tend to direct you via the fastest route. Not ideal when you want to take the scenic routes.

 

Yes, there are state maps...

I use to use there maps for backpacking in the early 80's..
Little exspensive per state map ..but thats your choice...

GPS is you best bet
Delorme out of Maine
http://shop.delorme.com/OA_HTML/DELi...?section=10096

 

I'm with the GPS crowd.

 

GPS plus map in the saddle bag, makes a great combination. I use DeLorme Gazzeter topographical maps for examples of terrain. They are good at locating mountain ranges that have alot of twisty roads. I agree that Google earth is also a great resource of trip planning information. Another good web site for info is MSN Maps. Birds Eye View give a good close up view. Birds Eye View not available in all areas but you might get lucky.

 

Google maps on your phone and a Road Atlas (just in case).