Avenza Maps and 55 Ways

Take a look below for several maps we have been experimenting with, in collaboration with geographer and cartographer Dorn Van Dommelen (thank you!). We wanted to put a few of the trips from the book into an interactive map format.

You can view these maps online but to really use them you will need the AVENZA APP, which is free.

Avenza allows you to download the map to your phone or tablet (no charge) and to use it in the backcountry with that little blue dot to track your progress, even when you have no cell service. We have added helpful notes to the map. Give it a try, and let us know your thoughts via the "Whisper in Our Ear" contact form on the Home Page. We would like to improve these maps, so your input is important.

Penguin Peak

Penguin Peak is "the other Bird Ridge," located between Girdwood and Anchorage. It is a steep jaunt, with a distinct summit and rapdily changing views across Turnagain Arm and into the Chugach Mountains.

Penguin Peak on Avenza

Lion Head

Lion Head is at the Matanuska Glacier. The hike is short, with some tricky spots, and leads to a sweeping view of the glacier and high, white inner peaks of the Chugach Mountains.

Lion Head on Avenza

Portage Pass in Winter

Portage Lake and Portage Pass are near sea level, but the landscape feels like high alpine. Portage Glacier and peaks are massive.

Portage Pass on Avenza

Avenza Maps: Highlights