I purchased this before heading into the Grand Canyon for a 6 day/5 night excursion. My inReach Mini 2 was able to navigate me all along the way. While the high canyon walls prevented my cell phone’s GPS from acquiring a proper position when lower in the canyon, the Garmin inReach Mini had no problem. Only near Ribbon falls which is incredibly boxed in did the inReach struggle with GPS, and only momentarily before regaining my position (I was on multi GNSS to help maintain accuracy at the depths of the Canyon). I was able to get weather forecasts daily so we can tell when to get off trail to beat the heat. Family and friends were able to follow along as we went via the live track feature, however they noted disappointment with not being able to see historical data (you can only view live activity, once the inReach user ends activity it can no longer bee seen on live track). I was able to send check-ins and messages with ease, both from the device and Garmin messaging app. Charting routes and importing routes is extremely easy with the Garmin explore app and it synced seamlessly with the inReach. The only reason I am giving 4 stars instead of 5 is that the inReach Mini 2 doesn’t allow the ability to send photos via text messages. As far as I can tell, only the inReach messenger plus can send photos. Not a deal breaker, but would have been a nice additional feature. Overall, the device is great for navigating and a sense of security knowing you are always in touch regardless of where you go. Battery life seemed good, I plugged in to a backup battery on the second day and forth day, but at no point did it drop below a 50% charge. My only regret is that I waited so long to invest in the Garmin ecosystem. Absolutely impressed b y this little device and I had a blast getting to use it and familiarize myself with it out in the Canyon. You won’t regret this investment, thats for sure. The functionality it provides at its price point is unbeatable. I had been thinking of going with GPSMAP 67i, but with how well this device works and the ability to view maps on my phone, I see no need. This compact lightweight device does it all.
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