Trails Illustrated Maps by National Geographic

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I’m VERY close to finishing the Trails Illustrated Maps by National Geographic for Topo Maps+.

I have been working on this for awhile, but I am finally going to wrap it up. I will be releasing it next week.

Trails Illustrated maps are the most popular and trusted outdoor recreation maps.  With more than 200 maps, the Trails Illustrated map are available for most of America’s favorite outdoor destinations. Each map is created with help from local land managers and is rigorously reviewed.  Each Trails Illustrated map has topographic information, trails, and recreational points of interest.

HOWEVER, I need your help. Before I finalize everything, I need to make sure I have covered everything.

That is where you come in. Please take a few minutes to answer this super-short survey—there is really only one thing I want to ask you …

What is the most important thing for you when you are deciding which map to use for your outdoor adventures? (ie trail accuracy, reputation of map maker, up-to-date information from hiking community, etc). You can answer this question in the comments below.  I will read every response.

163 thoughts on “Trails Illustrated Maps by National Geographic”

    1. Clarity of the terrains and elevations. Most current trails is not as important to me.

  3. Trail accuracy. Maybe date of trail information so can consider if there were storms or other events that might have changed things.

    Up to date info from hikers – this would be good too if can incorporate any comments from the field.

    Trail closures? – Not sure if you can pull any dynamic info from websites providing trail closures, but this could be great too.

    Distance markers – always handy to have for planning.

    Type of trail – hiking only, bike, multi-use, etc so one can predict what to expect on the trail.

      1. I think you have your answer. But as long as you’re listening to suggestions…
        • Backcountry camp locations, distance, elev, change from last camp
        • Water sources along the way
        • Where scrambles are required: suggested routes, photos, difficulty.
        I agree that I don’t want this to become another AllTrails. But comments can be useful if vetted.

        1. This is great feedback! I have thought about having the community be able to contribute data for backcountry campsites and water locations. This information can be really hard to find.

  4. I use Natural Atlas because you said it was the best. I also use the satellite image map so I can get a feel for the terrain.

    1. I also use the Natural Atlas. It is the best all around US map that I have found. I have found that there can be better maps for specific areas from map makers who specialize in making maps for a particular area by hand. But those maps are not full US maps, they just cover one area.

  5. Detailed & accurate contours. Typically only refer to maps in winter or when off trail, and these need to be right, and able to zoom in detail.

  6. For me, having graphically descriptive draphics that show elevation work the best. Topology maps provide that level of details.

  7. I’m new to this interest but have been fascinated by cartography from about 11 years old (I’m 54). I would say trail accuracy ranks highest for me. Thanks for your hard work!

  8. Obviously accuracy is the most important thing for any map. But what makes me choose one map over another is clarity for the activity I’m doing. Being able to easily identify and recognize points of interest that are relevant to my current activity………..

    PLEASE DO NOT TURN THIS APP INTO ANOTHER VERSION OF ALLTRAILS!!!!!!

    The single biggest reason in choose your app from the others is that it is a tool. I don’t want recommendations, I don’t want trail conditions, I don’t want to read 1000 comments about the hike. I go through other avenues for that.

    KEEP THE APP SIMPLE!!!!

    With that said, thanks for putting out a great product and keeping it running smooth……

    PS, I’m will to be a beta tester and use the app all the time, and I’m going to school for GIS so I understand the techy side of maps.

    1. Thank you so much for the feedback! Part of why I original created Topo Maps+ was because I wanted a tool I could use to plan backpacking trips and so that I could have the best maps with the features I needed while in the backcountry. I have no plans of creating another AllTrails app 😉 Topo Maps+ is created for “Serious Hikers” who need the best maps and the best tools. I personally use AllTrails when I want to find public photos for a trail.

      You can send an email to support@glacierPeakStudios.com and I will get you signed up as a beta tester.

    2. I whole-heartedly agree with this comment. Topo Maps+ is my go to planning tool once I have decided where to go, and I rely on it when I am on the trail. It is fast, simple and focused on navigation and progress. I can pull trail notes from other sources and paste them into the notes when I need them.

  9. Since everyone says ‘acuracy’ I am going to add: load speed. We’re used to paper maps and our eyes being able to dart quickly back and forth and sort of zoom in and out very fast. If an online map lags and takes too long to load and render the tiles it’s a frustrating experience during the planning phase, and out on the trails.

    2. You are going to love how the National Geographic maps load in Topo Maps+ 🙂

  10. Up to date maps. I work with a search and rescue team and I use this app a lot.

    1. Thanks James! Let us know anytime you have suggestions for how we can better serve the SAR community with Topo Maps+.

  11. Trail accuracy, the resolution/quality of the map (readability), contrast shading of steep countours, Extra map data (springs, trailheads, other useful trail markings, segment mileage points, etc.) Thanks and I love your App. I recommend it to everyone that asks me for Topo info. Keep up the great work!

  12. Trail accuracy and map readability (i.e., the new topos are so much better than those from the 60s and 70s in their printing quality, making them much easier to follow.)

  13. Without a doubt, I look for clarity. The National Geographic maps tend to be large-scale and very easy to read. They are, in fact, my go-to map when they are available for the area in which I’m interested.

    That said, comprehensively and accurately depicting a trail system goes without saying. I’ve rarely encountered problems with accuracy, however, so the readability of a map tends to be the thing that sets it apart for me.

    1. Gregory,

      This is super helpful. Thank you! I hadn’t thought about it, but the maps I prefer to use are ones that have really good readability.

  14. I use Natural Atlas when hiking in the US, and wish we had better up to date Map info in Canada. I would look for trail accuracy and map clarity.

  15. Trail accuracy for the type of trail I’m planning to use. If I’m hiking I want hiking trail accuracy. If I’m ATV’ing I want trail/road accuracy including difficulty ratings and legal use. Forest service motor vehicle use maps show what types of vehicles are allowed on what roads/trails. I believe the Natgeo maps closely follow that. Having terrain with that is also important to me.

  16. Detailed and accurate contours are most important to me. Trail accuracy is a great bonus.

  17. Have to go with accuracy, add date of last update since if a trail has not been maintained for a while, you’d want to know that. Quick zoom in and out is my first priority. I carry printed maps for that since it’s so hard to get an overview and then the details. Also, elevation is impt.

  18. I want the app to be able to allow me to check on the server that I have the latest version of the map available for the area before heading out.

  19. I agree with the above remarks but I would like to add DOG FRIENDLY or not.
    Are they allowed on the trail and with or without leash.
    Perhaps it could be another map offering.
    Great APP.
    Keep up the good work.

  20. I use the maps while kayaking on the east coast from the ocean to backwater creeks. After marking my routes using 2-3 different maps, I need an easiy to read map so that check my location quickly on my iPhone which is in a water-proof case in moving water. Thanks for a good product and for any upgrades.

  21. Reputation, accuracy, certain app features (elevation change graph, custom path creation, etc.) and broad coverage (finding trails quickly no matter where I am in the U.S.)

  22. I am mostly concerned with clarity. If the map or trail is outdated but the clarity of the map is good I can negotiate to my destination by reading the terrain. I also agree with one of the other comments that simplicity, or more accurately, well thought out user interface is important.

  23. I take accuracy as a pseudo-given. An attribute that has become increasingly important to me in the planning stage is thorough labeling of general areas (such-and-such meadow), water sources (this is a dry year), creek names, trail names, etc. I often find myself switching back and forth between Natural Atlas, 2016 USFS, CalTopo, etc. trying to identify specific areas.

    With respect to the Nat Geo Trails Illustrated, I’m carrying the JMT hard-copy version as my backup. Gaia has had the e-version for over a year, and it is a very nice map. Adding it to Topo Maps+ is a great move, thanks Stephen! Nat Geo Trails Illustrated also adds some nice info such as dry stretches with no water, etc.

    1. I do the same thing as your John. I also switch between a bunch of different maps comparing them to find what I am looking for. I usually end up using the Natural Atlas or US Forest Service map when I am on the trail, but during the planning stages I switch around a lot.

  24. I’d like to start by saying that this is an excellent back country reference tool and guide. I love the fact that you can download specific area maps and also print off accurate topographical hardcopies. My primary concern would be topographical accuracy and detail. Sometimes trails are not exactly as they are appearing on the map but if you can understand the terrain then the location of the trail should be easy. I use GlacierTopo and CanadaTopo maps for all of my backcountry hiking, camping mountain biking and dirt bike trail riding. As mentioned above, I think it would be a mistake to turn topomaps+ into a social site. There are many social sites that can be used for backcountry trail conditions and user reviews.

    Thank you again for creating such an excellent product. I will continue to support this app

    1. Ed,

      I love this feedback! I have resisted adding in social features because I want to make Topo Maps+ be about the tools and the maps needed for serious hikers. Thank you!

  25. CLARITY, accuracy, and the use of overlays, with the option to use different maps, depending on the topography of the hiking area.

  26. I stay away from National Geographic maps. When ever I see the words: developed in conjunction with local land use managers, I know features( what a topo map is by definition), have been edited or removed from that map. I will seek out older Topo Maps for their accuracy, ie, map standards. If I wanted Soviet era map standards, I’d move to Russia!!! I will not purchase National Geographic products.

    1. John,

      This is super helpful feedback! Thank you! It is really helpful to know this.

  27. The standard map that comes loaded with your app does not seem to have the roads leading up to the trailhead (or I’m too dumb to figure it out). That omission is a huge problem for me. But, for the trail itself, being scalable, seeing topography and trails are key. I will say, in the bright sunshine (wearing sunglasses), the app is hard to use.

    1. David,

      Thank you so much for this feedback! This is super helpful. I added this feedback to our list that we use when planning new features for our app.

      For road names you will probably want to try using a different map. The default map is a USGS topo map and it terrible for roads. If you tap on the map icon in the upper right corner you can switch maps. I would try out the US Forest Service map, Natural Atlas, or Thunderforest. Send us an email if you need help picking the right map. support@glacierPeakStudios.com.

  28. Trail accuracy is important to stay on route, but I expect to lose routes anyway. The two map features which help me get back on route the most quickly are clear contour lines and being able to easily switch to high resolution satellite imagery. If I’ve downloaded for offline use a good topo map along with satellite imagery, I feel prepared.

  29. First is most certainly accuracy. A close second is a readability. I really like the Natural Atlas maps for that reason. All lines and place names are clear and easy to read. It would be great for there to be a way to mark and see campsite locations while on the trail. Not super needed as I always seem to find someplace to stay, but it would be nice to know there is a nice camp spot 100 yards farther down the trail, or if this is the last campsite for the next two miles. Thanks for making such a great product. I am really excited to have the National Geo maps included!

    1. Dustin,

      This is probably my biggest issue with maps. Before I head out I have look all over the internet trying to figure where there are good campsite locations and then add those in as waypoints on my map. Some of the National Geographic maps have backcountry sites on them and some of them don’t.

  30. Accuracy.
    Easy to read fonts and geodata such as contour lines – many times they are too small on a phone display.
    When printing, efficient color saturation WRT ink/toner consumption.
    Elevation & Distance data on map preference is Feet & Miles (Metric is OK as option if configured in Topo+).

  31. Trail accuracy is top most important. And the ability to just use the map without a bunch of adds and tips or conditions

  32. trail accuracy and able to have good way points and symbols to be added and a clear map & elevations

  34. I thought about this for a while before I answered. Trail accuracy, first and foremost. I don’t give a flip who publishes the map; they could be the most prestigious publisher ever, but if the map is inaccurate, you might as well toss a coin as to which way you’re going!

  36. In the military we use some paper maps with protractor and compass. We have some government GPS necessary for some equipment, but personally we all use cheap Garmins. I recently turned my platoon onto GaiaGPS which was stupid easy to edit and add points. We’ll be at a mission brief or something and someone will throw out a grid coordinate and boom! We’re off to the races. But when I’m out on a hike for fun in he Oregon mountains, I preferred TopoMaps because of the progress on trail. I also love the distance rings and azimuth line and I’m trying to get as proficient in adding points quickly as I am with Gaia.

    I don’t know much about map reputations. I want the latest data with an accurate declination. Accurate topographic data is necessary as well.

    I tend to like more clear, contrast, flat color schemes with only some shading for topography. I hike stretches where I need to plan the next water source at.

    As far as trail accuracy, meh. Small arms range is accurate enough for me personally. But then again I don’t mind bush wacking.

    1. Eddie,

      Thank you so much for this feedback! This is super helpful 🙂 I would love to know more about how you want to use the app to quickly add points. If you send an email to support@glacierPeakStudios.com we can have more of a discussion if this is something you are interested in.

      I am not sure if this works for you or not. You can tap on the search icon in the toolbar, type in a coordinate, select it in the list, then tap on the yellow location button to add a waypoint. Here are the coordinate formats you can type in http://glacierpeakstudios.com/blog/coordinate-search-format/

  38. I am very excited about using National Geographic maps. My eyes are not the greatest and these maps offer the information I need and look great. My last trip was a spontaneous one and I was unable to download Topo Map details for my 5 day trek into Mineral King wilderness but I had a Tom Harris paper map and was able to at least compare the digital outline of our hike from Topo Maps with the paper map to confirm we were on the right trail and it definitely improved my comfort zone.

    1. The National Geographic maps use bigger fonts and lines which make them easier to read 🙂

  39. I use the elevations and tower locations to plan my aerial photography in Canada and eventually the Philippines too I hope. This app doesn’t seem to cover the Philippines but I might be missing something about how to use it.

    1. Dennis,

      If you tap on the Map icon in the upper right you can switch to a world wide map which will cover the Philippines.

  40. Hi Stephen,
    The thing that’s most important to me concerning your product is keeping it simple enough so non-geeks (like me) can easily use it. Having to search through multiple map options, I find frustrating. Ideally to me would be that you figure out a way to consolidate all the different map data into ONE map choice.
    Thanks for asking and keep up the good work!
    Marty

    1. This is such great feedback, thank you! So far the best all in one map that I have found in the Natural Atlas. The National Geographic maps are really good maps the areas that they cover, but they don’t cover the entire US.

  42. Accuracy of course, but very much how well the map scales as I zoom in and out. The phone screen is small so I zoom back and forth a lot. It’s terrible when details don’t resize in a readable manner or appear and disappear without apearant reason.

    1. This is great feedback. Unfortunately, the National Geographic maps don’t scale well as they were created for print at a fixed scale. Thanks Bendrix.

  43. Accuracy and Clarity (readability). Tom Harrison and Nat Geo maps are my most common paper maps that I buy, it really comes down to who has the most detail for the areas that I am going.

  44. Accuracy and Clarity (readability). Tom Harrison and Nat Geo maps are my most common paper maps that I buy, it really comes down to who has the most detail for the areas that I am going.

  45. This is awesome news. National Geographic Maps has a very good reputation. Trail accuracy and timely map revisions are important. Quality & Clarity a must.. Thanks

  46. Accuracy is paramount. However a footnote option (from users as verification can take time) to address possible changes due to storms, landslides, etc would be useful. In that theme a link to user info, like water sources and campsites may be useful, (recognize data limitations). Intuitive icon and logo representations. Low battery drain. GPS link to camera for photos an option.

  47. 1.) Image resolution. I realize this is relative to the device in use but if the line work is not generated and input in a clean format even devices with high res. will obviously not depict the line work clearly.
    2.) Of course feature accuracy and frequent updating is important as well.

  48. I have one more thing. ( Legend Map Symbols ) have a printable sheet to show all map symbols.

    1. This is really helpful! A few of the maps in Topo Maps+ have legends, but they are hard to find. Tap on the Map icon in the upper right corner and if the current map has a legend, you will see a link for the legend just below the map in the list of maps.

  49. Like everyone else has said, accuracy, and clarity / readibility. And, I second the opinion of the person who said, “please do not turn this app into All Trails”. I agree with all the reasons he gave.

    The one thing I would add to the previous comments is in regard to readability. When I passed my 60th birthday, I started to need reading glasses. I’m now up to +3 diopters. As I hike, it’s a royal pain to have to repeatedly take them on and off to check the map. This is much worse when using a highly detailed map. So, My solution is to switch back and forth between a highly detailed map that I can zoom into as much as I want, and a simplified map that emphasizes only trails (or a pre-defined custom bushwack route) and my current location, just to quickly verify that I haven’t wandered off route.

    Topo Maps+’s “configurations” sort of allows me to do this, but usually requires me to scroll through a list of many configs, and sometimes doesn’t seem to fully switch overlays on and off. What I want is a simple button that allows me to quickly switch between an “A” map, and a “B” map (together with all overlay settings) which I have selected specifically for that day’s hike. I know that adding another button or gesture to a software product has many implications, and that this request could be regarded as merely a “convenience” whose result can be obtained using existing functionality, but, at least for me, it would be a big convenience.

    HTH,

    Tom M

    1. This is really great feedback Tom! I think you will really like using the National Geographic maps if they have maps for the areas you hike. They have bigger fonts and lines which makes them easier to read.

  50. The degree of trail detail is the most important feature I look for in deciding which map to use. My favorite map of all time is the map of Big Santa Anita Canyon trails in the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s on CanyonCartography.com. What I love is that it is SO focused that it is impossible to get really lost. The hand-drawn map includes lots of things to look for. I recognize this is NOT at all comparable to your project, but waypoints, landmarks, and focused detail are so helpful. In two words: USEFUL DETAIL. Hope this helps. I love your app, even though I often find it a bit difficult to use (but that’s just me).

    1. This is super helpful Rande! If you ever have questions about the app please don’t hesitate to email us at support@glaicerPeakStudios.com. We also take note of the common questions and try to figure out how to make the user interface better so that area of the app isn’t confusing.

  51. User friendly with hints and tips for rookies and directional challenged. Everyone starts somewhere.

  53. Detailed, accurate, up to date (though sometimes I prefer the old USGS maps to find ruins and abandoned mines, etc.) I use your app on my phone for all navigation and exploring and some trip planning. The only deficit in the app is the lack of ability to see a broad overview. If I’m planning a long trip, it’s easier to spread out a nat geo map than scroll through the atlas on my phone or iPad. Other than that, I rarely buy maps anymore. Thank you for creating this amazing program!

  54. … oh, and one more thing …

    It’s critically important that all maps scale well to different zoom levels. Specifically, the zoom levels at which text changes size (or disappears) needs to depend on the resolution and size of the device on which it is being viewed. For example, text that I can easily see on my iPad will usually become unreadable when I view the same geographic area on my phone.

    A great service would be the addition of a non-toggling button or gesture that would temporarily enlarge the text and possibly other symbols near the center of the area being viewed without tediously zooming in and out (eg, just to confirm a trail name). … think of it as a temporary magnifying glass over the center of the map for old farts, LOL.

    Tom M

  55. Trail Accuracy and Quick Zoom. The National Geo Trail Maps are nice. I am new to TopoMaps + and will use it as a backup to paper Topo maps and compass. I appreciate the straightforward uncomplicated layout of TopoMaps. Keep up the great work!

    1. Thanks John! One of the things I really try to make sure all Topo Maps+ users know is to never rely on the app and to make sure they can still use a paper map and compass.

  56. Features off trail like clearings and low/wet areas. Accuracy. Markings readable.

  57. I echo most of the others – Trail Accuracy, but updated with current conditions (washed out trail, bridge out, parking lot moved, trees down and trail not cleared, … And what permits are needed: for parking, for the trail, where to get it (which Ranger Station).

    1. Agreed! This would be great. I have shown up a trail heads before with 2 permits in my car, only to find out that I was missing the right one for that area and I was over an hour away from the nearest ranger station. I ended up writing a letter to the ranger and putting in my dash saying that I was sorry that I didn’t have the correct permit and that I would purchase the correct one as soon as I got home after my backpacking try was over. We didn’t get a ticket on that trip and I purchased the pass as soon as I got home. In some areas of Washington State figuring out which permits you need is a pain.

  58. Trail accuracy. Correct trail with the correct connections. Nothing worse than thinking that you are all prepared only to find that your route does not match your GPS and you are not really sure where you are going.

  60. Accuracy. I need to be able to rely on the information presented, especially in a remote location.

  61. I live in western Canada (BC), so for me the highest/best reason to choose this map over other maps is accuracy of the resource road network. Specifically, logging roads and oil/gas roads. These are usually well maintained and reach further into the wilderness than public roads. National Geographic products are good quality but in my view tend to be over-priced compared to similarly-equipped products. Overall accuracy is the single highest criteria for any map product.

  62. Trail accuracy and topographic contours.
    As stated above , following contours when off trail can be a matter of life and death!

  63. I am a relative newbie to all of this, but have now taken a half-dozen or do hikes using Topo+ Pro Plus. I use the app primarily to make sure that I don’t lose the trail (notwithstanding trail markers) or, if I have, getting me quickly back on the trail. (Your app is great in this regard.). So, so far, the comprehensiveness and accuracy of your maps, specifically in relation to marking trails (i.e., being able to find the trail I want to hike on your maps and then plot my route on it in advance) is my primary concern with your maps. I also use your app to understand/confirm the topography of the hike – not just how great the maximum elevation gain is, but also total elevation gain over the entire hike (how much up and downs there are) and the maximum steepness of any portion of the hike, but often I can get a general idea of these matters from other sources. Keep up the great work!

  65. For me it would be trail accuracy followed by updated information provided by other hikers.

  67. As most have said, the number one need is accuracy. I like what Keene said above he nailed it’s

  68. For multi-day hikes having water sources is a necessity. Having camping sites and shelters labeled is expected. Lastly, for hikes of a longer duration, having resupply labeled, such as stores, service stations, cafe, or even historic points of interest makes the hiking decisions easier to plan or change at the spur of the moment.

  70. Detailed topography, along with streams and rivers. It looks like the N. Geographic will be a great addition to topo+.

  71. Trail accuracy including elevation accuracy and clear contours are paramount but I must agree with all the other wishes expressed above. It seems we want everything!

  72. Hi Stephen – ease of use and/or user experience is most important to me. In other words, don’t make me think. When I’m in the backcountry, I don’t want to use my battery life trying to figure out how to acquire the information I seek. The app should be intuitive and you do a great job of that!

  74. (1) Map/trail accuracy — who cares about the rest if the map isn’t accurate
    (2) Visual Clarity — how the map presents information really aids in processing and understanding the information
    (3) Map content — does the map show you the things that matter.

  76. My “most important thing…when…deciding which map” is the “Oops in Wayfarbackistan” use case = Given no GPS/no live map update connectivity, or, a lost/broken phone and a lost/broken compass, I want my paper map printed from Topo Maps + to have precise, clear contour lines at a sufficiently detailed interval width and updated landmarks/terrain features/shading/trails to plot the easiest cross country course to the nearest trail out. Simply, the paper map printed from Topo Maps + makes it an (updated and accurate) piece of cake to use terrain association navigation skills without a compass/GPS. Oh, and the nearest Starbucks 😉

  77. Accuracy is by far the most important along with elevations. Distance between way points is a nice feature too.

  78. I also haven’t had a problem with accuracy. I always have a paper map when available because they give me a bigger view of where I am in context than the phone screen can, and I need to make sure I know where I am if my phone dies. As mentioned above, readability of contours, trails, symbols and points of interest are the hallmarks of a great map. When I think of Topo Maps+, I’m thinking about what I can get from a digital map that I can’t get with paper. Number one is that GPS can quickly show me exactly where I am on the map and which way I am facing. Number two is the ability to zoom in and see more trails, labels, details as I zoom – paper can’t do that. Critical to these two are load time, space in cache, and speed and readability as I zoom in and out. If the performance and clarity aren’t there, the user experience on the trail is impacted. The other thing about digital maps is data layers – trails, POI, water, notes from the trail, etc. The real value of paying for a digital Trails illustrated digitally instead of paper is in all the data that could come with it, and the ability to get updates without having to buy the map again, but I don’t know if they have more data than the paper maps in their digital Trails Illustrated maps.

    1. Thanks Chris! Right now the Trail Illustrated maps are just the images of the paper maps with no extra information.

  79. trail accuracy, reputation of map maker, up to date information from hiking community

  80. For me, #1 priority is simply availability of maps. When I travel outside the U.S., finding ANY electronic maps or even printed maps in English can become an adventure by and in itself. So better access to more open source maps in more regions around the world is of higher interest to me than having access to pretty proprietary maps like NatGeo’s. I realize that this may not be a concern for many others, but it is the primary driver for my contemplating switching back to Gaia app from Topo Maps+.

  83. If it’s not accurate, it’s not a map. Nothing else matters if it’s not accurate.

  85. Besides the general accuracy and clarity, with contour shading providing intuitive sense of elevations in addition to what is shown in info for specific trails, it would be great to have data indicating sources of water and suitable spots for dispersed campsites. Thanks for your fine service.

  87. I also like use of contour shading to provide an intuitive sense of the elevation to get a better feel for the topography.

  88. Completeness of trails….see all the trails and not just 1 or 2 main trails. I skip around all the maps to see who has the most complete set of trails.
    I use the finger tip route planning for hiking and biking. Great add.

  89. I use for deer hunting and scouting. I do a lot of run and gun hunting in areas not pre-scouted. Terrain needs to be as accurate as possible. I have found the terrain maps are not very accurate but overlaying with other maps helps. Trails are not as important to me except to show the possibility of human intrusion.

  90. I would suggest the following ranking for my top five features
    1) overall survey accuracy – not just trail accuracy
    2) recent revision date
    3) clarity of cartography
    4) ability to select size of typeface for map labels
    5) ability to layer multiple base maps with selectable levels of opacity

    999999) any social features – this is a mapping application not a chat room

  91. Trail accuracy, contour intervals small enough to be useful for x-country off-trail hiking, shading and non-shading available, ability to select desired areas for printing with coordinates clearly visible left/right top/bottom.

  92. Accurate information is critical, however, ability to understand the details, interpret the information provided, is necessary. Too much detail, too many symbols, non-intuitive marking, these All can make a map difficult to read and use

  93. Having a large trail and road catalogue as well as all water body down the the smallest creeks. Using the governments publicly available maps is best for finding all deactivated and reclaimed roads, old ming routes, and even historic trails and trade routes.

    Accuracy is important, but I think map design (ie. symbols, patters, colours, shading) definitely sways my decision to use it or not. Natural Atlas is great, for US locations..

    Availability of maps, outside the USA… ^

    Also a big one for me is using the most up to date satellite imagery, even if the images don’t mesh well together, I really prefer to have up to date imagery. For that reason I use FATMAP for all my satellite related mapping.

    It’s difficult to get an all in one map service, but that would be the dream!
    Good luck!

  99. Sorry. I dont hike on trails where I live. I go cross country. Most maps arent current and usually only show trails from yesteryears that arent there anymore.

  100. Accuracy and detail. Distance between points of distinction, whether trail markers or natural markers. Ease of readability is also so important. Colors and contrast for readability. Especially important for those of us with older eyes who still love to hike, although maybe a little slower than before.

  101. Hi Stephen, As you know, I am using your excellent Topo Maps+ tool to track trails and create both private printed maps and “categories” of trails for use with the app by low tech folk. I use the USGS national map because it is the most accurate in my area.
    My request is to be able to reduce the transparency of the base map so their is more contrast to make the trails stand out.

    That said, when planing a hike in unfamiliar areas I switch between multiple maps to see old trails, structures and bodies of water. In part because of beaver activity and rapidly changing vegetation in the Northeastern USA (which is mostly below treeline).
    Thanks again for all you updates and help.
    Tod

    1. Btw, contrast is excellent in the app. The transparency is needed for printing. I think you may already have this on a future update list. 😉

    2. Tod, thank you so much for this information. When I use the USGS or US Forest Service maps I want the same thing. The trails blend in too much with the background.

  102. From the perspective of someone who hikes in poorly documented and rarely visited locations in Montana, what I find most important is WATER. A lot of this country is dry — the accurate location and flow of a single tiny creek or spring can make the difference between completing the route, or having to turn back. I’ve found the USGS maps to be the best source, but they are outdated and many of these itty-bitty springs have either moved or ceased to exist.

    Oh, and map loading performance for downloaded maps when doing a lot of zooming and panning.

  103. Definitely trail accuracy and clarity of map. I use Trail Illustrated maps for a large overview and planning, then create a route using Topo Maps+ for offline use. A few weeks ago I was riding my adventure bike in the Tahoe National Forest and what was identified as a 4wd trail (Trails Illustrated map), was the Rubicon on steroids. I’m glad I scouted on foot before getting stuck in the backcountry. I love Topo Maps+ for my outdoor activities as well as a tool for wildland firefighting!

    1. Tom this is super helpful! Thank you for your service with woodland firefighting! Let me know if you ever have special requests for Topo Maps+ that would help you with your wildland firefighting.

  104. Detail, accuracy, contour accuracy. less detail when viewing larger areas and more detail features revealed when zoomed in.

  105. First and foremost for me would be map accuracy and trail accuracy. Next would be up to date maps. I love the recent maps you added that show campsites and also the fact that you can overlay various maps and satellite imagery with varying transparencies. I am a pond jumper and usually use your maps for planning water routes and planning portage routes with or without established trails.

  106. Accuracy, bug free stable operation, power consumption; menu operation that makes use convieniet; not hunting thru menus scrolling around to find basic funtions; minimal do-dads added for coolness.

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