Get to Know TOPO! Explorer

TOPO! Explorer is National Geographic Maps new website which enables users to download and share their favorite outdoor recreation places. Trails, photos, videos and detailed information like where to park and where to camp are located in “Trip Files” that you can browse and find on the Explore Page of this site.

To create your own files, print detailed maps, or work with a GPS receiver you need the TOPO! Explorer application. You can download the application for free by registering for an account. The application comes in both Mac and PC varieties and can be downloaded from the “My Purchases” tab in your account page.

TOPO! Explorer is similar to other TOPO! mapping products, but is entirely new, and uses a different set of online topographic maps and aerial imagery known as SuperQuads. SuperQuads can be browsed for free on the website – but to use them in the application they need to be purchased and downloaded. Each SuperQuad costs 1 Map Credit – $1.00 each. You can purchase map credits from our Map Store or by purchasing a TOPO! Explorer package from a retailer.

Why Should I Use TOPO! Explorer?

TOPO! Explorer (TEX for short) makes it possible to get detailed, real, USGS topographic maps – plus updated information like trails. For those that are active outdoors you can create and share your knowledge of great hikes, rides, and paddles – and help others discover the outdoors. If you are new to an area or activity, TEX makes it easy to locate area trails and parks. The more people that use the site and contribute places to go and how to do it – the more value it creates for all!

How Does TEX Compare to TOPO! State Series and Weekend Explorer?

TEX is an entirely new product and website for National Geographic Maps. The TEX application has many of the same features found in the State Series and Weekend Explorer products – but it uses a different set of maps, and is designed to create and share maps with others. The State Series and Weekend Explorer titles are jam packed with advanced mapping features ideal for the avid outdoorsmen and use a CD based set of maps for an entire State or region. These products are a great value for someone that recreates across a large area. If you own a State Series product already, TOPO! Explorer installs alongside, and can open your custom maps made with TOPO! State or Weekend Explorer. This enables you then to share your maps with others on topo.com.