Thanks for the kind words about Gmap4. I noticed hits from this thread in my server log so thought I would stop by and say 'hi'.
This project is part of my way to “pay it forward”. Translation: Gmap4 is free for non-commercial use. It is popular with people that enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.
Gmap4 is a browser app, not a native app. Gmap4 runs in most browsers on most devices from smartphones to desktops. Note that the browser does have to be online. When Gmap4 is running in the browser on a smartphone it automatically uses a phone-friendly ‘scroll’ interface. (If your phone does not like the scroll menu then touch Menu ==> Button Interface.)
The button in the very upper right corner lets you change map types. The "Canada" choice displays vector topos for all of Canada. The "MyTopo" choice displays scans of Canada topo maps. The Menu button gives access to various features. A rightclick will show some useful info.
I enjoy looking at topo maps and one of the main reasons I wrote Gmap4 was to make it easy for people to include map links when they post in forums like this one. Here is the recipe for making a link that will start Gmap4 and display a map:
1. Simply use zoom/pan or Menu==>Search to find the area you want to see when the map opens.
2. Click the button in the upper right corner and select “t4 Topo High” or one of the other choices. Also adjust the zoom to your liking (mouse wheel or sliding control in upper left corner).
3. Click Menu ==> "Link to this map". The link that is displayed will reproduce the same map you see on your screen.
These Gmap4 links can be used in forum posts, emails, blogs, websites, etc.
The Gmap4 homepage has a FAQ, examples, quick start info (in the Help file) and more to quickly get you up to speed.
Gmap4 default map:
http://www.mappingsupport.com/p/gmap4.php
Gmap4 homepage:
http://www.mappingsupport.com/p/gmap4.html
Some forums are allowing Gmap4 to run as an embedded map. See for example:
http://www.bogley.com/forum/showthread.php?62130-The-Super-Amazing-Canyoneering-Map
http://www.nwhikers.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=8002972
http://www.portlandhikers.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=14194&hilit=washougal
Enjoy!
Joseph, the Gmap4 guy
Redmond, WA