Ask Topo

A small, human project: field-ready answers via satellite, in plain language.

Hi, I'm Tan. I built Ask Topo for people who head out anyway—when the map is vague, the weather turns, or the trailhead sign doesn't cover what actually matters. If you can send an email from your satellite device, you can ask Topo. You'll get a short, practical answer you can use immediately.

Free for inReach users: If you have a Garmin inReach, it's free to try! Send your question to [email protected] from the Garmin messaging app using mobile or WiFi connection. Note that standard messaging fees may apply when sending via satellite. If you're just curious or need help, write [email protected].

There's no signup, dashboard, or app. Just send a message when you need a hand; I'll keep the service running and honest.

— Tan, builder of Ask Topo

What Topo actually does

Answers things like: where to camp east of Hood tonight; if that road is open yet; whether the wind shifts after noon; the bus time out of Skógar; where to get water on your route. No fluff, no links to click. Just the answer.

It checks official sources (weather, closures, maps), then trims to what matters on a satellite connection.

Examples

  • Q. Where are best camp spots east of Mt Hood in Oregon?

    Topo. Still Creek (4.3*) 31000 E Perry Vickers Rd, Gov't Camp, 9km S; Lost Lake Resort (4.5*) 9000 Lost Lake Rd, Hood River, 17km NW of Mt. Hood.

  • Q. What facilities are there at Lost Lake Resort in Oregon?

    Topo. Lost Lake Resort, OR: cabins, yurts, camping, store, boat rentals, showers, hiking, fishing, swimming. Open May–Oct. No cell/Wi‑Fi.

  • Q. Give me the bus schedule leaving Skógar going to Reykjavik on August 12 2025

    Topo. Aug 12, 2025: Bus Skógar → Reykjavik departs 10:15 (Highland Bus) or 16:25 (Strætó, transfer at Selfoss), trip 3–9 hrs.