I hope I didn't start this going thread in the way of endorsing a GPS for navigating, especially as a the only way.  I would of course use one in conjunction with a compass and map.  Actually, if I can go next summer to Quetico, maybe somewhere deep into, I'd like to go with experienced people who have their own maps and compasses, but I'd be there silently navigating along with them.  I'm sure there a more than a few people here that can get back thru 5-6 lakes without even need of a map and know exactly where they are and where the portages are etc.   My ideal would be to follow along with a map and compass, but use a GPS to pinpoint my location on the map while at rest stops, camp sites, or along the way.   Call it rookie training.  I would like one of the those ball compasses that can be affixed to the yoke, then keep a map right at my feet in a waterproof  map case... then another compass around my neck.   Those little ones you can buy for $10 but have a nice flat plastic area that you place on a map.  Are we feeling lost yet?

The nice thing about a GPS (providing it works, providing you have batteries, and don't dip it into water), you can get always pinpoint your location on a map, if you map has the GPS coordinates.  Most all of the new ones do.