Geokov.com website: topo maps, trails, conditions, and backcountry info exchange
OHOC received a note from Geokov in March 2010 telling us of their website, geokov.com. We looked at it and we think that Club members would find it useful. From the information they sent us, it contains
- topographical maps
- trails
- conditions
- a backcountry information exchange
They said:
We thought this new outdoors website might be of interest to your members as a trip planning and educational tool.
Geokov.com is a free web application with topo maps, trails, conditions and backcountry info exchange.
Below is a summary of the site's features:
- Uses Google maps; has divided the province into regions, with a web page listing links for the region's conditions (weather, road, avalanche, trails, etc.) and useful resources. Many of the trails and trailheads are plotted (can click on trail or icon for info and link to resources). Good coverage of Ontario.
- Apart from regular Google's maps (map, satellite, terrain), topographic maps, 1:50000 scale Canada wide and the BC TRIM 1:20000 scale, from government servers can be accessed. It also serves Google Earth's 3D satellite map through the web (just install the plug-in). Great way to practice topo map reading and terrain assessment by comparing the topo map with 3D Earth visualization of the same area with click of a button. Also click on any desired point on map and get geographic coordinates below it.
- Panoramio photos and Wikipedia (encyclopedia) descriptions of many mountains, lakes, parks, and other features can be located spatially on the map.
- There is a functionality for public to submit a condition report after their trip for the particular region and view submitted reports from others. The convenient form reporting enables specific feedback for road, trail, climbing/skiing conditions, wildlife encounter, conflict of use, incidents, etc. With increased user participation hopefully such functionality can aid in Park and natural resources management in addition to being a very useful and efficient local info exchange.
- There is a functionality for plotting a route over the map (over any map type including topo maps) and saving the GPS data.
- This tool makes it particularly easy for a trip leader to plot a proposed route on topo or satellite map and share it with the group before the trip. Also travel route can be plotted after the trip as part of a trip report.
- Convenient printing functionality. Can zoom in to any trail or area and print the desired map type.
The "Help" page explains all the functionality in more detail.
We are always open for suggestions for improvement, addition and correction.