Lizard Adventure Blog

While I don’t necessarily remember thevery first time I picked up and actually read amap, I do know that I rely on maps regularly. There are too many places with unreliable cell reception to think our digital resources can guide us, unwaveringly. But, with a map in hand and a few other necessary supplies, we can be unstoppable. 

Re-published for winter inspiration (Dec 2025) c. Purple Lizard Maps

The winter holidays invite a pause. In this year’s Holiday Greetings, Mike and Justine reflect on a year of thoughtful mapping, deep connections to landscape, adventures big and small (including with Loki the trail dog), and the Purple Lizard community that makes it all possible—plus a look ahead to exciting new maps and collaborations coming in 2026.

Find meaningful, fun, affordable gifts for hikers, bikers, campers, and outdoor adventurers. Shop Purple Lizard Maps for holiday gifts that bring joy all year long! Handcrafted best in class recreation maps, cozy hats, gear, and more — all from an award winning family-run cartography studio in Pennsylvania.

Plan a simple, joyful holiday outdoor adventure for the whole family with these easy tips. Discover family-friendly trails, winter outing ideas, and how Purple Lizard Maps can help you explore more this season.

Mountain biking at Herrington Manor State Park in western Maryland feels like pedaling through a postcard. The seasons change and the trails “are just so beautiful today”... everyday. The appeal of riding here is how forgiving the terrain can be for beginners yet still fun for regulars; it’s perfect for a mixed crew to ride together and finish the day smiling. The trail system at Herrington Manor is our go-to for welcoming rides that are an absolute blast. It’s flowy singletrack with a few roots and rocks and perfect for the women’s ride vibe. You can scale it up or keep it mellow but it’s always a good time.

The blue dot can tell you where you are , but it can’t show you what you’re missing.

That’s why we still make maps the real way: by getting outside, walking the land, and exploring every trail, ridge, and backroad ourselves. Because adventure isn’t just about finding your way, it’s about finding your way back to what matters.

Feeling spooky this time of year? Check out these ideas for Halloween themed outdoor adventures that just might get your blood boiling...

Years ago, local trail legend Bob Webber would lead a rambling hike along official and unofficial trails throughout the forest near Algerine Wild Area and Slate Run, PA. One of these trails, which helps to create a loop hike from Slate Run, had been seemingly forgotten until a local trail running group, PA Trail Dogs, found this trail again and re-opened the trail for all to use. Follow along below for a rambling description of this loop, which is an ideal adventure for hikers, backpackers, and trail runners alike.