Wanderer: Building Your Own Outdoor Route Database

Do you ever face this problem: you use many outdoor apps to record routes, but the data is scattered across various platforms, making organization and searching a huge hassle? Or worry that one day these services might shut down, and your precious route records could be lost forever?

Today, I want to recommend a fantastic tool—Wanderer—that lets you build your very own outdoor route database.

What is Wanderer?

Simply put, Wanderer is a self-hostable outdoor route management system.

You can upload GPS tracks you've recorded, plan new routes directly on the platform, and add various detailed information to each route, creating a fully searchable route catalog.

Imagine it as building your personal "Outdoor Encyclopedia"—all the paths you've taken and the ones you plan to explore, neatly stored on your own server.

https://appstore.lazycat.cloud/#/shop/detail/cloud.lazycat.app.wanderer

How to Use

After installing the application, open the home page.

First, register a new user.

After successful registration, click "Create New Route".

The left side is for inputting content, and the right side displays a world map.

If you've used other platforms before, you can first export all your data. Export GPX files from your previous apps (like Strava or Komoot), select your GPX folder, and the system will automatically recognize and import them.

Here, I'll first choose to draw a route.

Create waypoints on the map, and the route will be automatically generated.

Click "Stop editing," and the left side will automatically calculate distance, duration, and elevation information.

You can also add notes and scenic pictures.

After saving the route, you can view it under "Routes".

Click to enter and see the details.

You can also export the GPX file.

I usually go cycling and use the "Black Bird Biking" app. You can go to its official website to import GPX files.

On the mobile app, after selecting "Sync Routes," you can see the route you just created.

Summary

Wanderer is a boon for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into hiking, cycling, or running, and whether for personal use or team collaboration, it excels at helping you manage your route data.

If you have many outdoor routes to organize or are looking for a reliable route management solution, I recommend giving Wanderer a try.

After all, it's more reassuring to have your route data firmly in your own hands.