In a past life, I’m pretty sure I was a cartographer. I’ve always had a knack for planning routes and finding my way, and there’s just something deeply satisfying about having my bearings sorted when exploring new places. Honestly, I’ve spent countless hours getting lost in the layers of Google Maps, flipping through map books, or gazing at beautifully framed maps on the walls of a winery or local shop.
That brings me to something a little offbeat yet perfectly aligned with who I am as a runner and adventurer: a wall map from Muir Way. I feel the need to explain why I think a map is worth spotlighting as a running/outdoor item—because, for me, maps go hand in hand with the heart of my identity as a runner.
In my garage, I have what I’d call a functional yet uninspired map—a basic laminated hand-me-down that I repurposed into a pin wall. It marks locations across the country where I’ve raced, which is an idea I love because it captures core memories tied to my runs. Every pin represents a moment, a place, and a story. But honestly, the map itself? It’s ugly. It’s the closest I’ve ever come to a love-hate relationship with a map.
Enter Muir Way. I’m currently in the process of upgrading my garage map game with their 1932 USA Geological Map, and let me tell you—it’s awesome. The map has this vintage aesthetic that feels timeless but is made modern with a 3D-style effect that mirrors the actual elevation of the terrain. Now, when I look at the map, it’s not just a visual memory jog—it’s a tactile connection to those hilly trails in Pioneertown, CA, the flat Oregon Coast, and the steep climbs of the Cascades, Utah, and Idaho.
Here’s the kicker: the map isn’t physically raised. The depth and detail come entirely from their unique printing process, which layers shading and texture to create the illusion of elevation. Muir Way combined four vintage maps digitally to achieve this intricate, detailed masterpiece. It’s a blend of art, history, and modern innovation that makes it so much more than just a map—it’s a conversation piece.
For those who want something more localized, Muir Way offers regional maps like the Northwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest, so there’s something for everyone. In fact there are TONS of maps available – including actual 3D maps.
If you’re a runner, hiker, or just someone who loves the outdoors, a map isn’t just a map—it’s a meaningful way to celebrate the places that have shaped your adventures. Muir Way is here to help.
