Customer Reviews

Oregon Road and Recreation Atlas

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The Benchmark series of road atlases, which now cover most of the western states, have--in my opinion--nudged out the older de Lorme maps as the best guide to where you're going and what your choices are when you hit the road. The de Lorme series uses contour lines where the Benchmarks use color and shading to show topography, and since the former is a bit more precise I might prefer the de Lorme if I were on foot. But for traveling by vehicle, the Benchmarks win handily for their clearer depictions of the roads, and more accurate indication of where particular roads rank in the hierarchy--so you know whether you will be turning onto a paved two-lane with painted median or a one-lane gravel road which might be miles of muck or dust, depending on the weather. (If you are venturing way out on the unpaved roads, however, you should be aware that Benchmarks are no substitute for the more detailed BLM/NFS maps with road numbers and section grids.)

My hobby and passion is motorcycle touring, and I am always looking for the interesting, new-to-me roads less traveled. Though they (like the de Lormes) take up a lot of space, especially on a bike, Benchmarks are the tool of choice for me. Good maps contain a massive wealth of information. They repay close scrutiny. I like to "read" mine in the tent at night when I am on the road, reviewing where I've been and savoring the options for tomorrow's adventure.

Good morning to all who put together the new "Benchmark" Oregon Road and Recreation Atlas, 4th Edition.

The frustrations I encountered with previous and existing maping systems were that most of the time you could not know exactly were you were, or how to get to some place just using the map or GPS units due to lack of GPS co-ordinates, road I.D. and or identifieable exits. This atlas certainly does a good job of correcting this problem. Due to limited space on any atlas it is difficult to I.D. all roads and trails; but I find that I can locate an area quite well in the manner you have displayed. I would like to see more mileage markers on the landscape maps, as these are the pages I live with when backroading. When an emergency arises and you are between distant points, when there are no GPS co-ordinates the shortest and fastest routes are important. I would also like to see a comprhensive emergency page included that would guide drivers who are unfamiliar with the state how to prepare for the worst, and unforseen circumstances that can arise unespectedly i.e. appropriaate vehicle, food, tires, fuel, clothing, mapping systems and equipment, and when to drive or not drive in certain areas.

Thanks again for going the extra mile of effort,design and quality of info to make this atlas the best I have experienced. I recommend it be a part of the emergency survival kit.

Thanks again for a job well done, Merle Simmons

This atlas is a must for anyone who plans there outings or just wants to explore the outer limits of the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Its very well detailed. Indexed well so its easy to find the area your looking for.

I now own several of the Benchmark Atlas', and we don't leave home without them. The Oregon edition is no different. Superior detail, and up to date roads. The company is great and easy to work with as well. Benchmark Maps are an all around a quality product and business. Thanks Benchmark!

If you need information on Oregon, then this book is for you. Lots of details and information. Highly recommend it.