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CREATE A MAP & DATA SET FOR YOUR TRAIL

Young woman in the mountains

WHY?

The findings from my long-distance hiker survey indicate:

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  • 38% of hikers always carry paper maps.

  • 45% of hikers sometimes carry paper maps, it depends on the trail.

  • Of those who do carry paper maps, they do because:

    • 21% - they like the safety of knowing the whole area and exit options

    • 20% - paper is more reliable than technology

    • 19% - they like seeing the surrounding areas beyond the trail corridor

    • 18% -  they love maps

    • 12% - they like making route decisions as they go and that's easier with a paper map

    • 8% - they like getting off the trail to explore

  • Hikers' preferred method of navigation on trails are:
    #1 - Paper maps
    #2 - hiking navigation pp
    #3 - gps device
    #4 - follow trail markers
    #5 - leave the navigation to someone else​

  • The quality and accuracy of your paper maps is important:

    • 7% of hikers say they get off a trail and dissuade other hikers from the trail because of poor trail maps

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Trail in Woods

WHAT DOES CREATING A MAP & DATA SET INCLUDE?

Map & data set creation can be custom tailored to your needs and goals.

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  • I will create PDF letter-sized double-sided maps with CalTopo that can be printed at home or in a print shop.

  • I will georeference maps so they can be used with an app like Avenza.

  • I will create design features on the maps like color-coded trail tread by types, waypoints, distances between waypoints, helpful notes, water sources, private land boundaries, camping opportunities, and more.

  • If your trail is already on the FarOut app, I will match that data to the map.

  • I will use design programs like the Adobe Creative Suite to customize the look of your map.

  • I will create a map management system and:

    • Can pass on ownership of map and data updates and offer training on how to make route changes, modifications, and create new map sets.

    • Can manage data for you on an ongoing basis. This includes:

      • Monitoring FarOut comments and making adjustments in the main data set.

      • Monitoring conditions and social media accounts to making adjustments in the main data set, especially in regard to fire closures, safety concerns, re-routes, etc.

      • Creating reroutes, alternates, route options as needed.

        • Working with agency partners to find suitable reroutes.

        • Communicating reroute information to your hikers.

  • I will create a matching GPS file of tracks/waypoints and notes that can be uploaded to gps apps like GaiaGPS or onX.

 

Benefits of CalTopo mapset include:

  • A companion CalTopo app for both Apple and Android devices.

    • The app will display the same data as the printed maps.

    • The ability for app users to add additional information/waypoints, this can include things like comments on water sources about quality, availability, etc..

  • Easy web-based user interface with extensive online training materials for new users.

  • Printed maps include the declination which is useful for those who only want to use map and compass.

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* Note some aspects of this service could be delivered by a vetted group of talented contractors.

Don’t see something listed or are not sure what your needs are?

Book an office hour or a free 20-minute consult.

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By working with me, you are not only accessing 20+ years of long-distance trail hiking and professional experience but you will be connected to my network of long-distance hiking and outdoor industry professionals so I can find the right people or services for your needs.

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