I want to add or remove something from a Map source

Gaia Topo, as well as several other sources in the app, are based on OpenStreetMap data. OpenStreetMap (OSM) is an open-source, public mapping project that makes snap-to-trail routing possible. Read on to learn which Gaia GPS map sources use OSM data. This article will also show you how to make changes to OpenStreetMap and how to update the maps on your devices.

OSM Map Sources 

Here is a list of OSM-based map sources available in the Gaia GPS map catalog:

• Gaia Topo
• Outdoors
• Landscape
• Satellite Topo
• Satellite with Labels
• OpenCycleMap HD
• Gaia Streets
• Mobile Atlas HD
• Terrain HD
• Transport HD
• Toner HD
• Watercolor
• OSM Traces
• OpenSeaMap

Make an Update to OSM

If a known trail or point of interest is missing from one of the maps above or from the hike search, you can add the missing data yourself to OpenStreet Map. You can also edit any trails or roads that need correction. Any changes you make in OSM will then be reflected in Gaia GPS map sources. 

• Update OpenStreetMap by following the instructions in this article. 
• You can even use your Gaia GPS data to update OSM data.

OSM-based map sources update at different rates. Depending on the map source, updates can take a couple of days to a couple of weeks.

Updating Maps in the Gaia GPS App

The maps you see on gaiagps.com are the most up-to-date for that particular source.

The maps you see in the app are not always the most up-to-date maps.

This is because the Gaia GPS app automatically caches "tiles" (the individual images that make up a digital map) to help the maps load faster. Because the app caches recently viewed tiles, OSM tiles remaining in the temporary cache won't be pulled from the server, so they won't reflect the latest updates. Downloaded maps will also not reflect the latest updates.

To update your OSM-based map sources in the app so they are current, you have two options:

• Android users: please use option 2. The 'clear cache' button has been temporarily removed while we work on a bug, and option 1 won't work for you.

1. Update Individual Map Sources: 
Delete the map source, clear the temporary cache in the app, and re-download the maps.

1. From the Gaia GPS app, remove the map source. This will remove any downloaded maps associated with this source from your device, but they will be archived on the website. 
2. In the app, tap Settings > Storage > Clear Cache. 
3. From the website, unarchive the maps you deleted from your device.
4. Then, sync your device by tapping Settings > Account > Last Sync.
5. The map source is now current on your device.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for each map source you'd like to update. 

2. Update All Map Sources: 
Sync your data, delete and reinstall the app, and sync again.

1. If you have a lot of OSM-based map source downloads, sync your data to gaiagps.com. 
2. Delete the Gaia GPS app - Android / iOS
3. Reinstall the Gaia GPS app - Android / iOS
4. Sync your data once more. 
5. All map sources and downloaded maps are now current on your device.
   • Read more: How do I download specific maps on a specific device?