About Trail Tracks Panoramic Maps

Trail Tracks was created by two avid hikers and skiers (Grooters and Van Horn aka Fern/Horn Endeavors) who questioned “Why aren’t there panoramic hiking maps like ski area maps?” Artist James Niehues was then contacted and the first map, Rocky Mountain National Park, was produced in 1994. Six more panoramic maps followed which have provided a user-friendly and beautiful alternative to topographic maps for hikers.

Hand Painted by artist James Niehues

James Niehues, well known ski trail map artist, was commissioned to paint the images in 1993. The process is tedious but the outcome is worth it. From an interview with Niehues in on money.cnn.com he explained the process:

“When I receive a commission, I’ll go on location and fly the area. I photograph closeups and sections of the mountain as well as an overall view. Then I work with topographic maps and make a sketch that shows all the shadows, trees, and buildings. I try to give every area an individual look or feel.

For instance, for Taos I painted in a lot of reds for the desert conditions. I enjoy New Zealand because there are fewer trees. I like painting trees, but they’re time consuming. I spend probably 80% of my time on trees.”

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