I first used a GPS in the early 90's and I thought it was the dawning of the age of Aquarius - just punch the button and there were utM coordinates right in front of you. This was critical data for archaeologicl sites we were recording.

As i remember that first unit was expensive - $1300or so and the instructions stated very clearly to write down the numbers in case the batteries died, which they did, as surely s the sun rose in the morning.

For recreational hiking, I am quite happy with my Foretrex 101, mostly because it gives me good mileage data and shows me where the car is. I still like to have a paper map with me. Their batteries are really long lasting....