Communicating Geoscientific Information to Hikers: A Medium-Scale Geotourist Map Series in Hungary

Abstract Most inanimate natural formations with tourism value are closely connected to cultural and social factors. Presenting geosites with these contextual elements can enhance public interest in visiting and learning about areas rich in geoheritage—underscoring the importance of effective geoscience communication for a broad audience. Maps, whether analogue or digital, are designed to convey both topographic and thematic spatial information. Depending on the scale, users may be provided with geoscientific content that complements the map’s touristic or topographic features. This article presents Hungary’s first medium-scale geotourism map series, covering the process from cartographic editing to final publication. The maps supplement the GeoBlueTrail book, which is dedicated exclusively to promoting geoscience by introducing significant geosites and related cultural landmarks across the landscape units of the National Blue Trail. By integrating, filtering, and visualising geological and topographic information, the maps represent the first such integrated series in Hungary, designed specifically to support geoeducational goals and the dissemination of scientific knowledge.