---
title: Getting Started
nav_order: 2
tags:
    - Guide
    - External
    - User
# exclude-from-main-guides-list
---

<!-- @format -->

## Getting Started

This section explains how to access AccessMap, select a region, and take the built-in tour.

_For a list of all guides on the TCAT Wiki, refer to the [Guides List](../../guides-list/index.md)._{ .guides-list-ref }

---

### Accessing AccessMap

AccessMap is a web application, so **no download or installation is required**. It runs directly in your browser on any device, including phone, tablet, or desktop.

1. Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)

2. Navigate to [AccessMap.app](https://accessmap.app)

![AccessMap landing page](../../resources/images/accessmap/user-manual/getting-started/landing-light.png#only-light)
![AccessMap landing page](../../resources/images/accessmap/user-manual/getting-started/landing-dark.png#only-dark)

---

### Selecting a Region

AccessMap is available in a number of regions across Washington State and beyond. When you first open AccessMap, the map will be centered on the default region. To switch to a different region:

1. Select the **region name** displayed in a box at the top of the left sidebar (e.g., "Seattle, WA")

2. A **Regions** dialog will appear with a filterable list of all available regions

3. Scroll through or type in the **filter** field to narrow the list

4. Select the region you want to explore

![Regions dialog with filter](../../resources/images/accessmap/user-manual/getting-started/region-light.png#only-light)
![Regions dialog with filter](../../resources/images/accessmap/user-manual/getting-started/region-dark.png#only-dark)

!!! info "Coverage"

    AccessMap coverage depends on available pedestrian network data. Coverage outside Washington State varies by region and depends on local data availability.

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### Taking the Tour

If you are new to AccessMap, select the **Take a tour** button (top right of the map) for a quick guided walkthrough of the interface. The tour opens a series of popups that highlight key features and provide an introduction to planning your first route.

![Tour popup](../../resources/images/accessmap/user-manual/getting-started/tour-light.png#only-light)
![Tour popup](../../resources/images/accessmap/user-manual/getting-started/tour-dark.png#only-dark)

---

Previous: [AccessMap User Manual](index.md)

Next: [Interface Overview](interface.md)