I believe you'll be better off with the Garmin eTrex 30.
I have one and it is a very fast and accurate GPS.
I believe it has much newer technology and software than the Oregon 400(but not certain about that.)
It will take you a while to set up the fields like you want...and like anything, it takes practice to become proficient.
But it'll do all you want and a lot more.
I know mine is a LOT smarter than I am...for now anyway.
The free Basecamp software is a must have too ...imo.
And it does track elevation. I found that the milage and elevations correlate very well with paper map data
Two suggestions:
1. Buy a Garmin GPS
2. Don't go cheaper than the eTrex30. It's a good value if bought on Amazon...I rarely see it less anywhere else. You won't get the best of the GPS features on a cheaper model.
From the eTrex30 review link:
Barometric altimeter – This will give you more accurate elevation readings and allow you to see an elevation plot of your tracks
Here is a pretty good summary of features and reviews of the eTrex 30 and the Oregon 400(I'm not sure they make that model now)
eTrex30
http://gpstracklog.com/2011/10/garmin-e ... eview.html
Oregon 400
http://www.gpsreview.net/garmin-oregon-400t/
pete