Customer Reviews

Idaho Road and Recreation Atlas (Benchmark Maps: Idaho)

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I considered early editions of Benchmark Maps the gold standard for detail and readability. They were both gorgeous and useful. To my eye, however, the design and quality of the maps has suffered in the most recent editions. The colors in older editions were more subdued and easier to read. In the new editions the colors are higher contrast and harder on the eyes. On some pages the print registration is off giving the text a fuzzy quality. While I trust that the information contained in the map is still top notch, the readability issues make that information significantly harder to take in. For now I'm going to seek out the older editions.

These maps were purchased by and for professional firefighters as recommended by field experts. They are essential for recreational or business travelers who require detailed geographic representation and accurate trip planning references. Rated as "the best" of available publications, they have features other maps do not. A precision terrain base image correctly overlaid with road names, recreational points of interest, hiking trails, waterways, and border/boundary lines make these an ideal road-trip companion. The large, easy-to-read book/tablet format fits readily into briefcase or auto seat pocket, without need to continually unfold & refold. Area sections are boldly numbered and easy to locate. Don't leave home without it.

I have the Idaho and Colorado benchmark maps. They're incredibly detailed but still easy to read. Great for finding trails, canyons, and creeks to hike and fish.

These are VERY detailed mapbooks, I love them. The ONLY maps I think are better are by a company called Latitude 40, but unfortunately they only make them for the high rockies and the southwest. A must have for outdoor enthusiasts and road-trippers. It shows so much, including campsites, landmarks, etc etc etc. I have all of their books except Washington and Oregon. Never go on a trip without this map!

The benchmark state series does a nice job w/ back roads, dirt roads, etc. They seem to be more thorough and accurate then the other brand (DeLorme). Nothing wrong with the other ones, but these just seem a little better. The books are durable too (seem more durable than the DeLorme). I've had them kicking around the back of my truck behind the seats and they hold up well.

A very nice thing is that each page overlaps an inch or two with the previous page, so when you flip the page it's easy to find your place and keep tracing the road, landmark, etc.

Two main sections.
Section one is recreation oriented featuring info on campgrounds, activities, and sights by larger regions.
Section two is large format maps covering the entire state.
Very complete and useful.

Only negative is just an accident of geometry...the area just south of Stanley covering Sawtooths and White Cloud just happens to fall where four map pages meet so to travel and cover that area involves a lot of page turning.
I suggest supplementing this atlas with the local topographical maps from the USGS fo the specific areas you plan to hike/fish/camp.

After looking at several brands of atlas, I went with Benchmark. It is much easier to read than the others and is well laid out. I am waiting on some updates to occur on other states and then I will get them also in Benchmark.