Google maps is terrible when it comes to forest roads -- that's why I use iHikeGPS. The maps are USGS topos. Easy to cross-compare to the national forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps. (Which a ranger told me are called "em-vums" by the staffers!)
As far as I know, it is not possible to store the whole Google Maps database. Nor is it possible, I think, to store the whole iHike database. Maybe on a 128 GB phone, but that would take a lot of work just to click on all of those topo quadrants.
I hated smart phones, too. I am a notorious stick in the mud, late adopter, crypto Luddite. But my family prevailed on me, knowing that I have a soft spot for mapping apps that work for boondockers. So that is what pushed me over the edge into the Dark Side.
I absolutely refused to try sending text messages, until we became embroiled in a tricky and messy home renovation/remodel. There are a lot of contractors out there who will not answer a phone call or an email but who will respond to texts. And on the iPhone, I can dictate my texts, instead of typing with my fat clumsy fingers.
But that is off topic. The key for me is to have real time topo and GPS coverage in the wilderness.
The Avenza app, by the way, allows you to download MVUMs on your smart phone and then show you exactly where you are on the map. Nice. But it is not a topo.
Someday, this will all seem so quaint -- your pocket computer will always show you exactly where you are, toggling between high resolution satellite images and crisp clear topo maps, regardless of cell coverage. You will be able to send messages, either text or voice, from anywhere, any time.
But not yet.
