Canadian Ski Resort Launches New Three Dimensional Trail Map
The future is now, and it's in three dimensions.
Yesterday, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Alberta, announced the launch of its new interactive 3D trail map.
I spent a few minutes playing around with Lake Louise's 3D map, and man, it is wicked cool.
The map, as previously stated, is in three dimensions. You can rotate the mountain, scope it from different angles, and zoom in and out.
Unlike a static paper map, the new map also populates with current run information. Closed runs are noted, and if you'd like to see what is and isn't open, a filter tab allows you to display open runs. Also, these filters extend to difficulty and grooming status. For instance, I can see that Lake Louise only has six double black diamonds open with a few button presses. Only want to see groomers? There's an app (button) for that.
This type of map, developed by mapmakers SteepDeep, leaves me with mixed feelings. On the one hand, they're arguably the best way to digest any given resort's current status. SteepDeep notes that they create maps with cool bells and whistles like skier location, which, in practice, could make meeting up with your friends on the hill much easier.
However, from aesthetic and cultural standpoints, something is lost when you translate the second dimension into the third. The hand-painted work of James Niehues and his protege Rad Smith are beautifully realized skiing touchstones—departures from these maps don't fully capture what Niehues and Smith can.
SteepDeep hedges against this potential artistic loss, though. With the click of a button, their 3D Lake Louise map converts to its 2D counterpart and predecessor (with run filtering and status still available) created by, you guessed it, James Niehues.
That, to me, is an elegant solution that elevates Niehues' work, retooling it for a modern, more user-friendly era.
To scope Lake Louise's new digital digs, click here.
Related: "It Feels Good To Fly"- Glen Plake Is Back Skiing
Don't miss another headline from POWDER! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of skiing.
We're always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging ski-related videos to feature on our channels. Whether you're a professional or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on POWDER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality ski videos.
