Learn more about the land you live and recreate on with the Native Land Territories map, available for free in the Gaia GPS app and web map. This map, created by the Canadian non-profit Native Land Digital, marks traditional Indigenous territories across the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, and, increasingly, worldwide. Dig into the past, present, and future of Indigenous territories while you’re planning a trip to a new area or adventuring near your backyard.
Many outdoor recreation areas, including national parks and wilderness areas, exist on lands where Indigenous tribes were forcefully removed. The Native Land Territories map provides a starting point for deepening understanding of those Indigenous nations’ people, history, and culture. When you’re out on a hike, tap a location on the map to see the nation’s name. Tap the information button for a link to see more about that nation.
The additional information page enables you to contact the Indigenous nation and access information about their language, history, and land. The marked territories do not represent or intend to represent any Indigenous nation’s official or legal boundaries. They serve as a visual representation and educational tool to begin engaging with the complex history of Indigenous nations around the world.
Citing Land Acknowledgements
Use the Native Land Territories map to research and cite land acknowledgments, which pay homage to the past and present occupants of the land. Native Lands Digital and the Native Governance Center explain why and how you can make a land acknowledgment. To find out how to use the Native Land Territories map and deepen your knowledge even further, read Native Land Digital’s Teachers Guide. Please note that perspectives around land acknowledgements vary and do not replace for meaningful education and action.
How to Access the Native Land Territories Map
This map is available for all Gaia GPS users for free in the iOS and Android app and on gaiagps.com. To access Native Land Territories offline, get a Gaia GPS premium membership, and download the map before you head out. Please note that this map is a work in progress with contributions from the community. You can contribute by sending any errors you find to native-lands.ca via this contribution form.