Holiday Greetings from Mike and Justine at Purple Lizard Maps

The winter holidays always invite a pause.

Here at Purple Lizard Maps, this time of year finds us reflecting on the places we’ve explored, the people we’ve met, and the community that continues to make this work meaningful.

This year, we’ve spent time sinking deeply into our craft—exploring new landscapes, mapping thoughtfully and collaboratively with those who know these places best, and working on some really exciting new projects that will come into public view in 2026. This has been a year shaped by deep connections to landscape, careful attention to detail, our trademark curiosity, and, as always, a strong sense of love for the places we map.

Along the way, we’ve continued to follow your adventures—big and small, epic and everyday—and we’re inspired by how you use our maps to explore public lands, discover new trails, reconnect with the outdoors, and return to what matters most.

On the home front, one of the highlights of this year has been adventuring with Loki (now 15 months old!), who is steadily learning how to be a very good trail dog. Exploring familiar and new places through curious eyes (and muddy paws) has been a sweet reminder of the joy that comes from simply being outside and paying attention.

Loki taking in the view at Hyner View State Park in the PA Wilds

This year also brought opportunities to work with communities who care deeply about their public lands and are finding ways to elevate and share those places. Supporting that work—and helping people discover and appreciate extraordinary landscapes in the areas we map—continues to be at the heart of what we do.

As we look ahead to next year, we’re looking forward to sharing several new maps and we have some very exciting collaborations coming your way. While most of these are still taking shape behind the scenes, we think you’ll love what’s coming.

Most of all this year, we’re grateful for what has always sustained us more than anything: the beauty and energy we get from outdoor adventures, and the incredible Purple Lizard community. You are fellow travelers—adventurers, explorers, families, athletes, weekend wanderers, and nature lovers from many different walks of life. Together, you remind us every day that maps are never just maps; they’re invitations to experience something real, to find joy in the outdoors, and to connect with people, places, and the planet.

Thank you for supporting our small, family-run mapmaking studio, and for choosing to spend time outdoors in a world that often tries to pull us away from what sustains us.

Wishing you and your loved ones a restful holiday season and many good adventures in the year ahead.

With gratitude,
Mike & Justine
Purple Lizard Maps

P.S. If you head outside with a Lizard Map this winter, or have a favorite adventure from the year—we’d love to see it. Tag us @purplelizardmaps or send a note.