Looking for topo software

[nightfoam]

So, I came into some christmas money and thought I'd buy myself some topo software for my new laptop (an xmas present from myself) My original thought was Topo USA from Delorme but after reading some reviews online, it sounds like I might not be too happy with it.
I cannot transfer info from my GPS to the computer so there is no need for compatability there, I just want to be able to view topo maps, find where I might be and check the area around me.
Any suggestions?

[Toy Man]

I have used (and love) National Geographic's TOPO! state series software for years.

Not cheap - about $90 per state but you get all of the USGS 24k and 100k maps plus they can be updated.

Dick - Toy Man

[TeamCF]

+1 on the National Geographic software.

I have one of the cheaper "WeekendExplorer 3D" sets. I think it was like $30 or so.
Covers a large area around PDX. Out to the coast. Over to Madras, up to St. Helens, down past Detroit.

[nightfoam]

Darn, I was hoping that wouldn't be the answer. All my research has shown that the Nat Geo software is the best. But as you mentioned Dick, it is expensive. Maybe I'll get that for Oregon and get something less detailed for travel in other states...

[RidgeRunner]

Ryan,

I have heard Nat'l Geo is good too but haven't used it much other than the Alaska disks. I do have Delorme's Topo 7 on my computer. It really is clear and detailed but it's been a little difficult for me to learn how to get the most out of it. That could be mostly me. I noticed the new Topo 8 is fairly reasonable here.

Mick

[nightfoam]

Well, after shopping around a bit, I finally decided to go with Topo 8. I'm pretty pleased with it and got it for a decent price. I agree with you Mick, it is a little difficult to work with but I think I'll be able to figure it out.