Create Hiking & Topographic Maps In Canva (For Free)

In this video, I’ll show you how to create stunning topographic maps using 100% free tools, from real elevation data to final poster design in Canva! I’ll walk you through every step: 🌍 Sourcing global elevation data from OpenTopography 🗺️ Extracting clean contour lines in QGIS 🎨 Turning your map into a professional print inside Canva 🗺️ Adding your own custom hiking trail to the maps This workflow is easy, completely free, and delivers commercial-quality results, perfect for wall art, digital downloads, or unique map posters of your favorite places. Whether you’re mapping a national park, a mountain range, or your favorite hiking trail, this process will help you make your own custom topographic art; no paid software needed. Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 01:16 - Step I Sourcing Topographic Data 03:40 - Step II Create Contour Map 06:12 - Adjusting Projection 07:28 - Step III Customize In Canva 08:00 - Add Custom Hiking Trails Tools Used: OpenTopography.org for downloading elevation data QGIS.org for generating contour lines Canva.com for final layout and design Mentioned in This Video: Copernicus Global DEM (30m / 90m resolution) Example trails downloaded from hiking.waymarkedtrails.org Copyright & Attribution Elevation data source:European Space Agency (2024). Copernicus Global Digital Elevation Model (GLO-30 / GLO-90).Distributed by OpenTopography. Licensed under the Copernicus Data and Information Policy: free and open access for any use (including commercial), with attribution. Attribution line: “Contains modified Copernicus DEM data. European Space Agency (ESA), distributed via OpenTopography, used under the Copernicus Data and Information Policy.” Use this workflow to make your own: National Park posters Hiking trail art Minimalist terrain prints Custom maps for Etsy, gifts, or home decor If you have questions about data, exporting, or styling your maps, drop them in the comments! I always read them and use your feedback for future videos. If you enjoy design tutorials, map-making, and creative ways to build online income, subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss the next video!