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Map Data

Where does our map data come from?

OuterSpatial maps are made up of two layers of data: basemap data and OuterSpatial data. Understanding the difference between these two layers can help explain why certain map features look the way they do — and what can be done to update them.

OuterSpatial Data

The following types of data are created and managed directly within OuterSpatial by organizations and visitors:

  • Area boundaries (polygons) — parks, preserves, and other managed areas

  • Points of interest (points) — trailheads, facilities, landmarks, and other notable locations

  • Trails (lines) — hiking, biking, and multi-use trails

  • Outings (lines) — curated routes and experiences

This data can be edited at any time by the organizations that manage it.

Basemap Data

Everything else you see on the map — roads, natural areas, building footprints, water features, elevation and terrain, and more — is basemap data. This data is sourced from OpenStreetMap (OSM), a free, community-built map of the world, and is delivered to OuterSpatial through our mapping provider, Mapbox.

Can basemap data be updated?

OuterSpatial does not have the ability to directly edit basemap data. However, because OpenStreetMap is an open, community-driven project, anyone can contribute edits to it. If you notice an issue with a road, water feature, building footprint, or other basemap element, you can make a correction in OpenStreetMap yourself.

Here's how the process works:

  1. Create a free account at openstreetmap.org.

  2. Find the feature that needs updating and make your edit.

  3. Mapbox periodically pulls updated data from OpenStreetMap into their platform.

  4. Once Mapbox processes the update, the change will appear in OuterSpatial's maps.

How long do basemap updates take?

There is no guaranteed timeline for when an OpenStreetMap edit will appear in OuterSpatial. Mapbox manages its own schedule for pulling in OSM updates, and OuterSpatial does not have visibility into or control over that process. Some changes may appear within days, while others may take longer.

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