Avenza Maps News

Rand McNally Publishing Announces Historic Partnership with Avenza, Making Trusted Maps Digitally Available for the First Time

Rand McNally Publishing, the iconic mapmaker for over 165 years, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Avenza Maps, bringing their trusted state maps to digital form for the first time. Users can now access Rand McNally's state, regional, and U.S. maps directly from the Avenza Maps website and mobile app. These digital maps maintain the renowned detail and accuracy of Rand McNally, enhanced with features designed for outdoor use.

Top Tips for Visiting National Parks This Winter

Good Living is your ultimate guide to experiencing the splendour of South Australia's national parks, providing expert insights on exploring nature. Their latest blog offers tips on visiting national parks in winter. One of the most important tips highlighted is to stay on marked trails and that most national parks provide downloadable PDF maps that can be accessed through the Avenza Map app.

How to Run a Scavenger Hunt Using Avenza Maps

We love encouraging you to get outside and enjoy nature! When going somewhere new, what better way to get to know the city or urban park you're exploring than by introducing an outdoor scavenger hunt? We’ve decided to create a scavenger hunt to track down the top landmarks to see in Central Park. This must-visit urban park is a beautiful, sprawling natural space in the heart of New York City. Keep reading to learn more about each of these landmarks!

New Pricing Strategies to Boost Map Sales

We are making some changes to the Map Store pricing structure and payout model to increase map sales and make account management easier!

A Guide to Sharing Maps with the Avenza Maps App

Sharing maps with the Avenza Maps App is easier than ever. Whether you've purchased a map from the Map Store or created a custom one, Avenza Maps allows seamless exporting and sharing across devices. You can share Map Store listings through a simple, shareable link, directing users straight to the Map Store. Read more to learn all the ways to share maps using the Avenza Maps App.

Tales from the North Country Trail: A Photographer’s Favorite Hikes

Kim Mettler, a passionate hiker, nature lover, and skilled photographer, showcases her favourite trail sections through her camera lens. She shares the stunning landscapes and discusses how the Avenza Maps App helps her.

USA Bucket List Hiking Trails to Explore This Summer

Summer is just around the corner! Break in your hiking boots and hit the trails solo or with friends and family this upcoming season. Whether you’re planning to take a gentle stroll through the woods or embark on an exciting new challenge, hiking is one of the best ways to get outdoors and experience the beauty of nature. We’ve compiled a list of the best trails to hike this summer in the US. Keep reading to find out what they are and some tips to be aware of.

Avenza Maps 5.3: New Features to Boost Your Mapping Experience

Update to Avenza Maps 5.3 today and unlock an array of fantastic new features and improvements. With its enhanced functionality and user-centric design, Avenza Maps is your ultimate companion. Dive into the app and discover how these latest updates elevate your outdoor adventures.

The Avenza User Conference 2024

Discover the vibrant community and collaboration that defined the Avenza User Conference 2024. Attendees from diverse backgrounds connected to share innovative ideas, strategies, and best practices in mapping and geographic information systems. Did you miss the event, or interested in being a presenter next year? Find out more now!

Paige Conquers Tennessee's 57 State Parks with the Avenza Maps App

Meet Paige, an avid adventurer from the rolling hills of Tennessee. Discover her journey hiking across all 57 Tennessee State Parks and learn how Avenza Maps transformed her outdoor experience, offering reliable navigation and enhancing her sense of adventure on every unforgettable hike.

The Black Hills Forest Service Has Some Safety Tips Ahead of Hiking Season

The National Forest Service recently shared essential safety tips for the upcoming hiking season on Good Morning KOTA. Cecilia highlighted the significance of digital maps and recommends users download and use the Avenza Maps App while hiking in the Black Hills National Forest.

Top Spring Adventures for Outdoor Enthusiasts

For many of us, spring is a time of renewal and new beginnings. With the weather getting warmer and the days getting longer, it’s the best time to get outside, enjoy nature, and try new adventure activities. Are you seeking inspiration to get out there and make the most of the season? Keep reading, and we’ll drop some locations you won’t want to miss out on.

Avenza Participates in Toronto’s Annual Spring Cleanup

We engage in Toronto’s annual spring cleanup every year! We’re excited to be back celebrating Earth Day by participating in Clean Toronto Together this year. Find out more about this event!

DNR shares tips for planning a summer camping trip in state parks, recreation areas

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is gearing up for the summer camping season by offering helpful tips for campers. The department provides an online summer activity guide, information on park events and programs, and alerts for safety and closures. They recommend using the Avenza Maps app for navigation.

Exploring OSM Basemap with the Avenza Maps App

Discover the power of OSM Basemaps and unleash your outdoor adventures with the Avenza Maps app. Explore trails, navigate terrain, and plan your next journey with ease. Learn how to use OSM Basemaps and the Download Offline Region feature in this article.

Celebrating Saint Patty’s Day!

Bring out everything green! Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated each year on March 17th as a global celebration of Irish culture. It’s a day packed with parades, good luck charms and all things green! Read more in our latest blog post.

Acknowledging International Polar Bear Day

It’s February 27th, meaning it’s International Polar Bear Day! Every year on this day, International Polar Bear Day aims to raise awareness for the issues that polar bears face. It is a day when we collectively find ways to reduce our carbon footprint to minimize the effects related to global warming.

Top Snowmobiling Tips for Beginners

Do you long to spend the rest of the winter outdoors, embracing the cold, snowy days rather than staying warm indoors? Snowmobiling is one of the best ways to get outside and make the most of the season. In this blog, we'll share some of the best snowmobiling tips and tricks to be aware of before hitting the trails!

James Vooght's Expedition Through Lenses, Trails, and Avenza Maps

In this blog post, James shares his firsthand experience with the transformative impact of Avenza Maps on his outdoor escapades. The Avenza Maps app has completely reshaped his approach to photography planning, emerging as his primary tool for navigating local terrain. Despite his initial reliance on traditional navigation methods, James now entrusts Avenza Maps for nearly 90% of his planning tasks, effortlessly marking locations and charting trails.

Aerial Detection Survey Quad Maps

This blog presents multiple maps resulting from collaborative aerial surveys conducted by Forest Health teams from the Oregon Department of Forestry, Washington Department of Natural Resources, and the USDA Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region.

Your Top Feature Questions... ANSWERED!

At the Avenza User Conference 2023, Mike and Chelsea teamed up to tackle various frequently asked questions from Avenza Map users. Covering various topics aimed at improving the app's usability and enhancing the overall user experience, discover more details in this presentation.

Avenza Maps 5.2: Discover Upgraded Features and Refreshed Basemaps

Embark on enhanced adventures with Avenza Maps 5.2, where fun, safety, and reliability converge. This update introduces a refreshed basemap and incorporates a range of enhanced features to elevate your mapping experience. Download the app today and elevate your mapping experience!

Top City Tours to Take While Exploring Australia

Are you missing warm, sunny temperatures? Summer in Australia falls between December and February, and this beautiful country is known for its warm weather and hot sunny days. We’ve compiled a list of the top cities to visit in Australia and city tours you can take while travelling here! Curious to find out what they are? Keep reading to find out!

Enhancing Your Avenza Maps Experience: A Guide to Importing Map Features

The Avenza Maps App simplifies the process of importing map features, offering a seamless experience for both iOS and Android users. This article aims to help you grasp and utilize the map import feature in the Avenza Maps App. For seasoned users, consider this a brief refresher.

Avenza – Never Get Lost Again

In The Ultralight Hiker's recent exploration of the Avenza Maps app, a noteworthy transformation in the mapping tool came to light. On revisiting Avenza, they were impressed by its extensive array of free maps, particularly focusing on Victoria. The app's swift location detection and continuous tracking during a walk left a lasting impact.

Avenza Digital Maps

Discover the limitless potential of river navigation with RiverMaps Digital – your gateway to unmatched exploration. Convenient QR codes and download links are provided for seamless access through the Avenza store.

Revolutionizing Waste Management: Logan City Environmental Department and Avenza Maps App

The Logan City Environmental Department's success story with Avenza Maps highlights the transformative power of technology in waste management. By embracing innovation and incorporating the Avenza Maps App into their operations, they have not only improved efficiency but also demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices in their community.

Top 5 Magical Sleigh Rides Around the World

Winter is one of the most magical times for a sleigh ride, especially as we get immersed in the Christmas spirit and find fun activities in the snow! From jingle bells to Christmas carols and many Christmas markets to visit, there is nothing short to celebrate this festive season. Check out where you can experience the best winter sleigh rides this holiday!

Publishing a Digital Recreational Map for the Avenza Maps App

During the Avenza User Conference 2023, Bridger explained the process of publishing a digital recreational map, with the focal point of his discourse revolving around the seamless integration of the Avenza Maps App as the conduit for this digital cartographic journey.

Discover more: Top tips for regular visitors exploring SA's national parks

South Australia's national park visitors are reminded to prioritize safety and stay updated on changing conditions before heading out on the next adventure. Be equipped with the tips mentioned and utilize the Avenza Map App for offline navigation.

Largest Canadian Winter Festivals 2024

Winter is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the season than by checking out the best winter festivals? Whether you love the winter or want to escape the cold, these top cozy winter festivals will help do the trick! We’ve compiled a list of the largest Canadian Winter Festivals to add to your list in 2024. Check them out here!

Importing Multi-Page PDFs with Avenza Maps App

Learn how to import multi-page PDFs in Avenza Maps. If you're a new visitor, the details provided below will assist you in understanding and putting to use the features of importing Multi-Page PDFs with Avenza Maps, and if you're already a pro user, here's a quick refresher.

Best Pumpkin Patches to Visit in the US this Fall

What could be better than the crisp, cool air, beautifully coloured leaves surrounding you, sweater weather, and pumpkin patches? We’ve compiled a list of the best pumpkin patches to visit around the US this season. Get ready and save these locations to soak up the rest of the season this month!

Showcasing the New Avenza Map Store

During the Avenza User Conference 2023, Rebecca goes over how the Map Store search works, new and improved features, tools and search functionalities. Through this video one can understand the ins and outs of the Map Store and how it benefits both users and publishers.

Exploring How Conservation Groups Use Avenza Maps!

Globally, parks and protected areas aim to protect wildlife and nature, allowing visitors to learn more about and enjoy the beautiful outdoors! Many organizations seek ways to understand and utilize data to make more informed decisions. With Avenza Maps, conservation teams worldwide can record data, track notes, and attach geo-tagged photos directly on their downloadable offline maps.

Best surveying apps for iPhone and iPad

In this article, we will thoroughly explore the best surveying apps available on the Apple platform. Avenza Maps has been designed for those looking for National Geographic maps, national parks and more for their work or adventures.

Unity-based land trust to offer October programs

Sebasticook Regional Land Trust is set to continue its series of 2023 programs with a meditative, nature exploration walk at Pleasant Lake Preserve in Stetson, a workshop to learn the Avenza Maps app, and a trail work day at Moulton’s Mill Preserve in Unity.

Pisgah Map Company’s “Grandfather Ranger District – East”

If you want to explore the US Forest Service Grandfather Ranger District, Pisgah Map Company has the perfect maps! Download their maps directly from the Avenza Map Store.

Top 10 Free Offline GPS Apps for Android and Iphone

Digital maps have completely reshaped the way we navigate and experience the world. Discover the best free offline mapping apps to get started on your next adventure today!

58 female rangers finish leadership skills course

On April 5th, 58 female rangers from environmental departments spanning over 14 provinces successfully concluded a comprehensive three day course centered on gender equality leadership in natural resource management in Kampong Thom province. The course included training in Avenza Maps, GPS, drones, similar geographic information tools.

Coconino NF releases updated Motor Vehicle Use Map for forest travel

The Coconino National Forest has recently released an updated Motor Vehicle Use Map ( MVUM) used to view forest roads, trails and open to moto vehicle use.

Mohave County officials find missing hikers

Mohave County officials rescued two women from Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area after they recieved a call that two women were lost and needed help out if the trails. There is a map at the trailhead with instructions on how to download Avenza Maps to keep you safe and on the trail at all times!

Unity land trust lists September programs

The Sebasticook Regional Land Trust is scheduled to offer three programs this month, one of them being an Avenza Maps Training program. Find out more about the training program here.

Use GIS for girdawari, Punjab officials told

The Revenue Department asked district officers at various farm unions to use GIS ( Geographic Information System) based technology to watch their crops, and have been using Avenza Maps since.

Unveiling the Digital Age of Gold Prospecting with Doug Stone Gold Maps

Doug Stone Gold Maps is a passionate endeavour rooted in preserving gold prospecting history while embracing modern technology. Their collaboration with Avenza Maps blends tradition with innovation, creating maps that not only guide but also ignite the spirit of exploration and adventure in every prospector.

5 of the Best Hunting Destinations in Canada

It’s no secret that Canada is so well known for its fantastic hunting opportunities. You can spot unique wildlife throughout the country, as the possibilities for an animal-related adventure are endless. We've put together a list of Canada's five best hunting destinations to check out this fall.

Avenza Maps 5.1: Enhanced Features and Upgrades

To make our users' experience better, we are announcing the release of Avenza Maps 5.1. This update brings a few new features and important improvements for everyone to enjoy. Learn more about the latest features and upgrades to enhance your experience with Avenza Maps. Download the app today!

Introducing the #BlueDotScreenshot: Share Your Experience!

When travelling somewhere new, whether a new city country, or simply exploring a new hiking trail, one of our first instincts is to grab a photo! How could it not be? By capturing a photo of your experience, you can relive that experience later on and tell stories you wouldn’t otherwise be able to tell quite the same way. With this in mind, we decided to introduce the #BlueDotScreenshot!

How to Manage Symbol Sets in the Avenza Maps App

Learn how to use and manage symbol sets in Avenza Maps. If you're a new visitor, the details provided below will assist you in understanding and putting to use the features of managing symbol sets with Avenza Maps, and if you're already a pro user, here's a quick refresher.

Best Cycling Destinations in Europe

As we near the end of summer and soon invite autumn along the horizon, there’s no better time to start planning which cycling routes we’ll explore next season. We’ve created a list of Europe's five best cycling destinations to explore! Ready to explore beyond the norm and discover new horizons? Keep reading to learn more and download cycling maps for each new destination!

Avenza UC Speaker - Paul Edwards and Rebecca Bennett

Your Top 5 Avenza Maps Questions... ANSWERED!

During the Avenza User Conference 2023, Rebecca and Paul collaborated to address a series of commonly posed inquiries from Avenza Map users. These frequently asked questions encompass a diverse array of subjects aimed at enhancing the app's usability and overall user experience. Find out more in this presentation.

Exploring the Power of Nature with Deborah Padilla

Have you ever considered the mental health benefits of hiking? This month, we had the pleasure of speaking with Deborah Padilla, a therapist, author, and host of the podcast Hiking Is My Therapy. Get ready to be inspired and informed as we dive deep into Deborah's fascinating story, where she opens up candidly about her journey with the Avenza Maps app.

Avenza Maps 5.0: Exciting New Release of New & Improved Features

As part of our continued efforts to improve the experience of all our users, we are pleased to announce the release of Avenza Maps 5.0! This is one of the largest releases with exciting new features and updates. We are excited for you to experience and enjoy the new and improved Avenza Maps App. Download it today!

Acknowledging World Population Day

Every year, we observe World Population Day on July 11th, which seeks to raise awareness of global population issues. The United Nations established this day as a response to a growing interest in Five Billion Day in 1987. As you can deduce from the name, Five Billion Day was the date that the world surpassed a population of five billion people. Now, we are at a population of 8 billion people!

AvenzaUC Speakers Hamza Salman and Tristan Lyttle

What’s New in Avenza Maps

At the Avenza User Conference 2023, Tristan and Hamza took center stage to showcase the latest updates and enhanced features of Avenza Maps. The Avenza User Conference is a free virtual conference for map makers, GIS enthusiasts, and geospatial professionals. Find out What’s new in Avenza Maps in this presentation.

5 Best Waterfall Hikes to Discover with Avenza Maps

In case you couldn’t guess, hiking is one of our all-time favourite outdoor activities! Although we love hiking year-round, the summer offers the greatest opportunities for checking out the best waterfall hikes. What’s better than taking in the beauty around you while on the trail? Being rewarded with a stunning view of a waterfall! We’ve compiled a list of the best hiking trails with waterfalls for you to discover!

Explore the Record GPS Track tool in the Avenza Maps App

Avenza Maps has revolutionized the way we experience the great outdoors, infusing it with excitement and fulfillment through its remarkable feature: Record GPS Tracks. By leveraging this app, users can effortlessly track, record, and share their awe-inspiring journeys and significant milestones. Explore the Record GPS function to track and record your adventures, adding a touch of wholesomeness to your summer adventures.

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Success Story

Toronto, Ontario, is where Avenza Systems calls home. Even though it is one of the densest and most populous cities in the country, there is ample green space for outdoor enthusiasts like us to explore. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) plays a pivotal role in conserving this greenspace, so it was only natural that we work together to help everyone enjoy the beauty the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has to offer.

World Reef Awareness Day

It’s June 1st! Not only is it the unofficial announcement of summer, but we celebrate World Reef Day! World Reef Day is a day when the world comes together in awareness to reflect on our earth’s delicate coral reefs and take action to prevent further reef loss.

Avenza Maps is Invaluable on the Arnold Rim Trail - Steve Lauterbach

Steve Lauterbach is the Chairperson at Arnold Rim Trail Association and was one of our esteemed speakers at the Avenza User Conference 2023. The Avenza User Conference is a free virtual conference for map makers, GIS enthusiasts, and geospatial professionals. In his presentation, Steve outlines how collaborating with Avenza Maps has benefited ARTA.

Top 6 Flower Festivals to Visit this Season

The love of flowers and plants is worldwide! There’s a reason May is known as the season of flowers, it’s that beautiful time of year when the weather starts to get warmer, and everything is in full bloom. To make the most of the flower season, we’ve compiled a list of the top 6 flower festivals in May happening worldwide!

Brian exploring the NJ trails with Avenza Maps

Exploring The NY-NJ Trail with The Avenza Maps App

Brian Shultis, a passionate hiker from New Jersey, explores the NY-NJ Trail using the Avenza Maps App. The app’s features piqued his interest to explore the trail more. The option to customize map layers inspired him to go out and enjoy challenging adventures. Learn how Avenza Maps played a vital role in Brian’s outdoor adventures.

6 Iconic Star Wars Filming Locations

Not too long ago, in this very galaxy, Star Wars fans around the world found a great way to celebrate Star Wars Day, or May the 4th be with You.

Avenza Participates in Clean Toronto Together

On April 21st, Avenza participated in Clean Toronto Together to celebrate Earth Day! Since 2004, the city of Toronto has held a city-wide spring cleanup bringing Toronto residents, schools, community groups and businesses together to restore green spaces within the city. If you cannot attend a community cleanup event, we encourage you to clean up your local park or green area this week!

The Historic Journey Through Sweden with Historiska GIS-kartor

Do you ever wonder what local history is around you? Did you watch Indiana Jones with dreams of becoming an archaeologist? Learning what artifacts and buildings existed in our towns long before us can be fascinating. Luckily, the Map Store is home to a great selection of historical maps. This month we talked to Historiska GIS-kartor to learn more about historical maps of Sweden.

5 Best Fishing Spots to Explore this Spring

Is there anything more invigorating than spending the spring by the water? After a few long gloomy months, we are finally on the other side and ready to welcome warmer weather! Whether you’re fishing, surfing, or boating this spring and summer, warm weather and water sound like a match made in heaven!

Hike the Peaks and Valleys with Elevation Changes Cartographic

Have you ever heard the saying ‘West coast best coast’ in North America? I’m sure many people would agree. How can you not love the lush forests, towering fir trees and the vast expanse of mountains? For this month's featured publisher, we are visiting the best coast and talking to Elevation Changes Cartographic LLC, created by James Wilson.

Person looking at the Map Layers option on a smartphone

How to Manage Map Layers in Avenza Maps

Avenza Maps has made managing map layers simple and hassle-free for our iOS and Android users. If you're a new visitor, the details provided will assist you in understanding and putting to use the features of managing map layers with Avenza Maps, and if you're already a pro user, here's a quick refresher.

Celebrating St Patrick’s With Avenza Maps

Bring out everything green! Saint Patrick’s Day, celebrated each year on March 17th, is a global celebration of Irish culture. All around the world, you will find packed parades, good luck charms, special foods, parties and green all around!

A Geographical Slice of Pi - How To Celebrate Pi Day 2023

Every year, March 14th is recognized as one of the most famous days around the world by mathematicians, scientists, and math lovers alike: it’s Pi Day! Although we’re not celebrating actual pies on this day, there can most definitely be pies involved in your celebration.

How Jack and Jude Use Avenza Maps

Jack and Jude shared with Avenza Maps their stories and adventures. They use Avenza Maps for all their expeditions and thanks to Avenza Maps they were able to clear and track the historical Gould's Track. Avenza Maps has become an essential part of Jack and Jude's adventures as they are able to achieve so much more and faster by using Avenza Maps App on their iPad.

Santa Clara County Parks Success Story

One of the goals of Santa Clara County Parks is “to provide access to outstanding recreational opportunities, a rich cultural-historical legacy, and an expansive regional trail system for all to enjoy.” Avenza Maps is proud to have been selected as a tool to help the County accomplish this goal. Over 52,000 acres of land are covered by 29 parks whose maps are now accessible through Avenza Maps QR codes posted on trailheads and in trail centers.

Arnold Rim Trail Success Story

The Arnold Rim Trail, located in Arnold, California, meanders through the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Stanislaus National Forest. Featuring panoramic vistas, sweeping old-growth forests, and diving canyon paths, it is no wonder why this trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Arnold Rim Trail Association (ARTA) and its all-volunteer crew are the caretakers of this local gem. We spoke with Lauren Scott, a longtime ARTA member, about how they have been using Avenza Maps for years and what their recent deployment of Avenza Maps QR Codes has done for their organization and their visitors.

Taking Mapping to New Heights

Have you ever dreamed of hiking Everest? Tackling the famous summit and making your mark as one of the small numbers of people to do so? Or even a small hike in the Himalayas? This month, we spoke to Partha S Banjeree of WNL-Newscript/Milestone Books, who makes maps of the Everest and other Himalayan regions.

Exploring the Andes with Andeshandbook

The Andes mountain range is the longest continental mountain range in the world. Learn all about the famous hiking region and mapping the Andes with Andeshandbook!

Exploring the Trails of the Appalachians with the Appalachian Mountain Club

The Appalachian Mountains stretch over 2,000 kilometers in the eastern United States, with easy access from New York and Montreal. It’s one of the most popular hiking and outdoor areas in the country, learn why here.

Mapping Alaska with BarnwellGeospatial

BarnwellGeospatial, owned and created by Charles Barnwell seeks to make the highest quality, and up-to-date topographic maps available, with a focus on America’s 49th state, Alaska!

Walking the Italian Alps with Fraternali Editore

This month’s Publisher Feature is all about Fraternali Editore from Italy. Walking over 50,000km to get the most accurate data for their maps, they put their heart, soul, and walking shoes into what they do! To learn more about Fraternali Editore, we spoke to Mario Fraternali, one of the owners of the company.

Gold Prospecting Maps Strike Gold

Everyone loves a treasure hunt, and who doesn’t love gold? The newest gold maps in the Avenza Map Store are from Signal Prospecting, owned and operated by Glenn Holbrook. While Glenn loves snow sports, surfing, and skating, he admits he’s kind of obsessed with finding gold.

New Ways to Explore Quinte Conservation Authority

Looking for some of the best trails in Southeastern Ontario? Look no further than Quinte Conservation Authority (QCA). One of the newest publishers in the Avenza Map Store, Quinte Conservation Authority owns over 30,000 acres of land, which include managed forests, nature reserves, and 11 different conservation areas with trails to explore.