Looking to Build an Affordable Strava Alternative – Need Help with Maps and Routes!

To kick things off, start by working with .fit files to display your routes on a map. These files contain the data you'll need for visualization. However, remember that Strava isn't just about the technical side—it's also a social network. Think about what unique elements your app can offer to stand out, like specialized hiking routes or community features that Strava doesn't currently serve. This is how other apps in the space have succeeded.

Creating an app like this is definitely a challenge, but you can start by focusing on the basics. You'll need a mapping library to visualize your routes and a solid dataset for map information. I'd recommend using MapLibre, which is the open-source version of MapBox and is free to use. It works well on both mobile and web applications. For map data, you can use OpenStreetMap through services like OpenFreeMap. It's important to note that Google Maps can be tricky to work with if you want flexibility, so considering alternatives is a smart move.

Whatever direction you take for plotting your maps, it's crucial to handle location data properly. Under GDPR, this data is considered sensitive, and you have to ensure you store it securely to avoid any legal issues later on. It might seem like a hassle at first, but addressing this from the beginning can save you a lot of trouble down the line.