Using a modern phone or tablet with a built in GPS it is now possible to overlay your current position on a live map. 


There are several sources of existing georeferenced maps, or using software found on the web any image file you want to use as a map can be georeferenced. This assigns coordinates to the map image, which can then be uploaded to your phone. When you are at your local park exploring the trails you can now call up the map and see where you are in real time.

How can you do this? Read on.


1. First install the PDF Maps App found at the link below: 

Avenza PDF Maps App


2. Find and add maps to your device 

Once you have installed the app there are several types of maps you can view and places to get them. 

The first site is Avenza's PDF Map Store, which includes USGS topo maps for the entire country. 

Avenza PDF Map Store

Next is the USGS Store, which offers more recent georeferenced maps that include aerial photo layers. These are often more useful than the older topo maps but the files can be quite a bit larger ( ~30 MB each) 

USGS Map Locator and Downloader

3. Get outside, open the app and find yourself on the map of your choosing!