Why Trail Geometry Is So Complex, and Why It Matters

How TrailIntel rebuilt an entire region and set a new industry standard for mapping.

Every trail system tells its own story. It has its own rhythm, its own flow, and its own personality. As riders, we feel it when we’re out there; the sudden turns, the unexpected intersections, the tight squeezes, the broad valleys, the multi-trail hubs, the switchbacks. But behind all of that is a level of geometric complexity most people never see.

Mapping a trail system isn’t just drawing lines on a map. It’s understanding:

• The density of trail connections
• The angle and behavior of turns
• Overlapping systems from different eras
• Elevation and contour impact
• Seasonal closures and landowner changes
• Naming conventions 
• Safety considerations
• Real-world continuity vs. historic data

Each system is its own ecosystem. And accuracy isn’t optional, it’s everything.

A Legacy Built on Precision

For 18 years, GPS Trailmasters built the gold standard for ATV and snowmobile mapping. Riders trust the brand because the maps are reliable, current, and shaped by real riding experience. That reputation came from long days, long nights, full tanks, empty tanks, thousands of conversations, and an unwavering commitment to getting it right.

When GPS Trailmasters joined forces with TrailIntel, our mission was simple:
Preserve the legacy. Scale the impact. Modernize the tools.

Today, that combined expertise powers trail systems across 27 states and counting with real-time routing, offline maps, Garmin integration, AI-assisted updates, and a full ecosystem for clubs, businesses, and riders.

The Challenge: Hatfield-McCoy & the Outlaw Trails

Several months ago, we began evaluating available data for WV, VA, and TN, specifically Hatfield-McCoy and the Outlaw region. After running the geometry through TrailIntel’s analytics engine, one thing was instantly clear:

The GPS Trailmasters standard was not present. 100% of the systems required updates.

We found:

• Major continuity gaps
• Misaligned intersections
• Duplicated or missing segments
• Historic map artifacts
• Geometry that didn’t reflect real-world riding
• Trails overlapping inaccurately
• Complex networks needing full reconstruction

This wasn’t simple cleanup, it was a full rebuild. So, we packed our gear and hit the road.

Over 4,000+ miles, we met with the community, partnered with great people at places like McCoy Motorsports, attended Trailfest in Gilbert West Viriginia, explored the ridges and hollows, and built a new generation of maps grounded in the Trailmaster's legacy and powered by TrailIntel’s AI engine - Trailintel Atlas AI. 

The Result: The Most Advanced Hatfield-McCoy & Outlaw Trail Map Ever Built

Today, the entire system, every trail, every turn, every intersection has been rebuilt using:

• Field validations
• AI-driven geometry correction
• High-resolution data sources
• Rider feedback loops
• TrailIntel’s dynamic map engine
• GPS Trailmasters’ 18 years of craftsmanship

This update brings riders:

• Accurate geometry and intersection behavior
• Reliable turn-by-turn navigation
• Complete system continuity
• Rich POI discovery (food, gas, lodging, overlooks)
• Safety-driven routing logic
• Offline map support
• Garmin compatibility
• Instant update deployment across devices

This isn’t just a map.
It’s the new standard for discovering, planning, and navigating.

And just like every trail system we touch, it’s now powered by TrailIntel’s Atlas AI engine for Trails.

Trails Are Alive. And Our Maps Are Too.

Trails change. Conditions shift. Seasons evolve. Landowners update access. That’s why our work never stops.

But today, riders across WV, VA, and TN have the most advanced trail map available built from miles on the ground, decades of expertise, and technology built specifically for outdoor exploration.

This is just the beginning. Curious about our trip? Check out these pictures..          .