= standard PDF file
Viewable in most web browsers, PDF (portable document format) files can also be saved to computers for viewing in the free Adobe Acrobat Reader , and to PDF reader apps on desktop and mobile devices.
(Please be aware that although PDF files can be downloaded via the Chrome browser for viewing on your device in a PDF reader app, they do not always display properly in the Chrome browser.)
= geospatial PDF file
Geospatial PDF files can be loaded into the free mobile app, Avenza Maps , which provides a portable way to view the maps anywhere while taking advantage of many additional features. (Some advanced features require a paid subscription.)
- View your location on a map using your device’s GPS
- Plot placemarks and enter attribute data and notes; export as KML, CSV, or GPX files; import placemarks
- Track real-time movement with GPS (includes speed and elevation statistics); save, export and import tracks (as KML)
- Plot geotagged photos
- Search for points of interest within the map extent
- Measure, find coordinates, orient using the Compass, and more
- Available for Apple iOS, Android, and Windows (capabilities may vary)
To download geospatial PDF maps (after installing the Avenza Maps app)
Map links that begin with “avenzamaps:” or “pdfmap:” will launch Avenza Maps and load the map automatically. The links to geospatial PDF maps here in the Virtual Map Counter are formatted this way.
(Please note that the free version of Avenza maps allows a maximum of three downloads by this method. To download a fourth map, one of your other three maps would first have to be deleted from the app. An unlimited number of maps may be acquired through the Avenza Map Store. We are preparing to make King County geospatial PDF maps available for free in the Map Store.)