In this guide, I will show you how to set the default map layer in AllTrails. This is helpful if you prefer to see a specific type of map when researching your next adventure. For example, I really like using the satellite map to gain insight into the parking area that may (or may not) be available.
Changing Default Map Layer
Start by opening up the AllTrails application on your device. Once open, click on the profile icon at the bottom right of the screen.
When the profile screen is open, click on the gear icon at the top right of the screen. This gear icon is where all of the main app settings live.
Once in the settings section, tap on the “Default Map Type” menu option.
This will open the options that you have available to use as the default map. Depending on the screen size, you may not be able to see all the options at once. If that is the case swipe left and right over the maps to expose the other options. As of writing this article, there is a total of eight maps available. The map options are currently: AllTrails, Terrain, USGS Topo (US only), OSM (Open Street Map), Satellite, Road, OCM (Open Cycle Map), and World Parks. To learn about each of these map types in more detail, see this Support article.
When you find the map you would like to use, select the map layer by tapping on it. After tapping on it, tap outside of the map options towards the top of the screen to exit the “Default Map Type” options.
Looking at the setting options, you should now see the map layer updated next to the menu option. In my case I changed it to “Satellite”
To exit the settings area, click the “close” text at the top left of the screen. This will take you back to your profile. From there the standard menu options will be present at the bottom of the screen again.
Now that we have saved our settings, we can start exploring the trails with the updated default map type. Also when you visit a trails page, then click on the map, you should see the map layer you set as default!
As you can see it is easy to set the default map type in AllTrails. What is your favorite map type and why? Drop a comment down below to get the conversation started!
More AllTrails Tutorials
If there is anything else you would like to learn about AllTrails, please drop a comment down below, or reach out using the contact form. I would love to make some more articles and videos that help with your adventures. Plus, I might learn something along the way too!