Hi Hubbers. Theoretically, if you were to visit a new riding area for the first time, what kind of trail-head map would you find useful/useless . My interest in the topic is from a map/signage maintainer's point of view. This is biased towards having a minimum level of detail that would remain current for a good deal of time (e.g. the metro map-style map below). This would be the best value for money option for the trail owner, but may be in conflict with what users/riders actually prefer. The more detail a trail-head map contains, the quicker it becomes outdated. Also bear in mind that map information diminishes in value as familiarity with the trail network builds.
Assumptions: It is assumed that the actual trails are well marked, colour coded (e.g. Red Route), and altered quite frequently as new sections are added or changed due to land-owner requests. All trail changes are regularly uploaded to a comprehensive record of the trail network on Google Maps.
In my opinion, there are about three trail-head map-style options available, what would you prefer? (Please mention it if there are other options).
1) Full colour Satellite image with the most trails marked out, directions and distances.
2) Simplified map background image with main trails, directions and distances.
3) Metro map style image showing main trails with distances, directions and elevation.
Do people actually read maps? It doesn't appear so, judging by the number of riders found off route and going in the wrong direction...
