Sort the layers
Sort the order of your layers so things like rail stations sit above the rail lines and not below.
The world is large and maps are small. Cartography is a process of knowing what is essential and what is not. We love how this map uses a muted dark basemap to showcase information that’s pertinent to cyclists. We can clearly see the locations of bike paths and parking, plus light rail transit stops and lines to coordinate cycling/rail combo trips. This map tells an integrated story relevant to cyclists and commuters.
At a glance we can see both the locations and amount of bike parking in downtown Portland. This makes it easy to judge the likelihood of finding parking once you get there. Even better, the scale of the map makes it possible to tell which side of the street to go to. The colors, sizes, line weights, and opacity amounts help focus our attention on the most important aspects of the map; meanwhile supporting information is offered beneath.
Map Author
Geo Developer at Esri, Canuck, husband, mountain biker, dog owner, supporter of all things good.
If you liked this map, check out these other Maps We Love that explore similar topics.