How Offline Navigation Works
ALTLAS can guide you even without cellular or Wi-Fi:
- GPS works independently of internet
- Downloaded maps display offline
- Turn-by-turn instructions are cached
- Activity recording continues normally
Preparing for Offline Use
Before You Leave
- Download the trail - Includes route and instructions
- Download maps - Get the area map for visual reference
- Test offline mode - Enable airplane mode to verify
What to Download
- Trail route and elevation data
- Surrounding map area
- Any alternate routes you might need
Starting Offline Navigation
Works the same as online navigation:
- Open your downloaded trail
- Tap Navigate
- Begin your journey
Note: If a trail isn't downloaded, you'll see a message prompting download before navigation can start.
Offline Features
Available Offline
- GPS tracking - Full functionality
- Trail navigation - Full functionality
- Map display - Works if downloaded beforehand
- Off-trail alerts - Full functionality
- Voice guidance - Full functionality
- Activity recording - Full functionality
Unavailable Offline
- Trail search - Limited to already-downloaded trails
- Live conditions - No updates available
- Live location sharing - Requires internet connection
- Uploading activities - Queued until reconnected
Syncing After Reconnecting
When internet is available again:
- Queued activities upload automatically
- Trail data refreshes
- New features become available
Tips for Offline Adventures
Battery Conservation
- Lower screen brightness
- Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Use battery saver mode in ALTLAS
- Bring a portable charger
Map Coverage
- Download larger area than needed
- Include trailhead parking area
- Cover alternate routes if unsure
Before Departure
- Verify downloads completed
- Test in airplane mode
- Share your planned route with someone
Troubleshooting
Maps Not Showing
- Ensure map download completed
- Check storage space
- Try re-downloading
GPS Not Working
- Wait for satellite lock
- Move to open area
- Check device location settings
Navigation Won't Start
- Verify trail is downloaded
- Restart the app
- Re-download the trail if corrupted
Premium Feature
Full offline navigation requires Premium:
- Unlimited map downloads
- Larger coverage areas
- Multiple trails at once
Free users can download limited content.