Map of The United States | Routes of Early Explorers

Explorer Routes Map (1501–1844) – A Journey Through History

Trace the footsteps of history with this remastered map of early explorers’ routes across what is now the United States. Covering journeys from 1501 to 1844, this detailed map highlights the paths taken by legendary explorers—both by land and sea—as they charted the unknown. Every route is carefully illustrated, giving a clear picture of how exploration shaped the nation’s geography. This map is not just a piece of art—it’s a window into the past that brings the age of discovery to life.

Designed for both informational and aesthetic appeal, this map makes a striking statement in any space. Whether framed in your study, office, or living room, it adds a sense of adventure and curiosity to your decor. The rich detail and historical depth invite conversation, making it perfect for history buffs, travelers, and geography lovers alike. With multiple sizes available, from small to extra-large, you can find the right fit for your space.

This unique and educational gift is ideal for anyone fascinated by exploration, history, or cartography. Whether for a teacher, student, or an avid adventurer, this map brings a fresh perspective on the journeys that shaped the country. Printed with high-quality materials and available framed, it’s a thoughtful and lasting piece that will be appreciated for years to come.

Major expeditions and their routes from 1501 to 1844, along with the explorers who led them: 16th Century (1501–1600) – Early European Exploration Juan Ponce de León (1513 & 1521) – Sailed from Puerto Rico to Florida, becoming the first European to explore the region. Hernando de Soto (1539–1542) – Traveled from Florida through the southeastern U.S., crossing the Mississippi River. Francisco Vázquez de Coronado (1540–1542) – Led an expedition from Mexico through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas, searching for gold. Jacques Cartier (1534–1542) – Sailed up the St. Lawrence River, claiming Canada for France. Henry Hudson (1609–1611) – Explored the Hudson River (New York) and Hudson Bay (Canada) while searching for a Northwest Passage. 17th & 18th Century (1600–1799) – Fur Trade & Colonization Samuel de Champlain (1608–1615) – Mapped and explored the Great Lakes and northeastern U.S., founding Quebec. René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle (1679–1682) – Followed the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, claiming Louisiana for France. James Cook (1778–1779) – Mapped the Pacific Northwest coast and Alaska, stopping in Hawaii. 19th Century (1800–1844) – U.S. Expansion & Scientific Exploration Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–1806) – Traveled from St. Louis to the Pacific Coast, mapping the western U.S. after the Louisiana Purchase. Zebulon Pike Expedition (1806–1807) – Explored the Rocky Mountains and southwestern U.S., reaching present-day Colorado and New Mexico. Stephen H. Long Expedition (1819–1820) – Mapped the Great Plains, identifying it as the “Great American Desert.” John C. Frémont Expeditions (1842–1844) – Surveyed the Oregon Trail, Great Basin, and Sierra Nevada, producing detailed maps of the West. Each of these expeditions contributed to the mapping and understanding of North America, making them a fascinating part of exploration history.

Printed on Thick & Luxurious, 100% Cotton Fine Art Paper, Giclee Ink Process

• Weight: 330 gsm, 17 mil
• Texture: Very lightly textured
• Brightness/Color: Neutral white
• Finish: Matte
• Acidity: Acid-free

Frames

• Increase size by about 2" in each direction
• Ready to Hang
• 7/8" by 1 & 1/4" Solid Wood
• Optical Grade Acrylic
• Sawtooth Hanger Included
• Mounted to Foam Board to Reduce Warping
• Protective Backing/Dust Cover Included
• 1" Mat Can Be Included At No Extra Cost

Our Framed Print product images are digital representations and show approximately what an 18x24" print will look like framed.

Mat boards are a thick white paper that borders the print inside the frame. It prevents the paper from touching the glaze.

If you would like a mat board, specify in the order instructions found in your cart

*Mats are Not available for frames larger than 36" on smallest side

Canvas

• Thick, Archival-Grade Canvas
• Solid Wood Stretcher

Rolled Canvas

• For large format prints
• Not ready to hang

Metal, Acrylic and Wooden Prints Are Available Upon Request!

Our maps are created to decorate your space and provide inspiration. They are not intended to be used a navigational tool. Accuracy is not guaranteed.

Product Care

• For quick cleaning, dust your fine art paper print with a soft dry cloth or a feather duster.
• Do not display in area with direct sunlight to keep the print from fading over time.
• Framing the print is highly recommended to protect it from damages.

Free Shipping! Your order will generally be at your door in 4-8 business days. Please note that this is an average and not a guarantee.

We work with a variety of professional print partners to print closest to the end location whenever possible, helping to reduce our carbon footprint.

If you're not satisfied with your print, receive a replacement or refund within 90 days for unframed paper prints. Refund Policy

Not quite what you are looking for? Need a bigger size?? Explore our custom design options!

We can sell our maps in custom sizes up to 40x60" for fine art paper and up to 52x300" for rolled canvas!

We can also have maps printed on metal, wood, acrylic and more if you prefer.

If there is a specific map you want, we may be able to make it custom just for you!

We just want to make sure you get the exact map and print you are looking for :)

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