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Ski.com gives Google Earth a run for its money

2D maps are so 1490s. Add a third dimension to your ski maps with Ski.com's 3D ski slope viewer.

Josh Lowensohn Former Senior Writer
Josh Lowensohn joined CNET in 2006 and now covers Apple. Before that, Josh wrote about everything from new Web start-ups, to remote-controlled robots that watch your house. Prior to joining CNET, Josh covered breaking video game news, as well as reviewing game software. His current console favorite is the Xbox 360.
Josh Lowensohn
CNET Networks

Ski slope maps in 2D are often beautifully illustrated works of art that are one part navigation and three parts marketing. The next logical step was to take those same maps and make them 3D, which is what Ski.com has done with its new map explorer. You can choose from more than 20 3D maps of popular ski destinations all over the world.

Each map gives you a simple mouse-drag interface that allows you to zoom around the slopes. When you get up close, you can even see details that jump out, such as red elevated lines that represent ski lifts. There's also a short list of preset locations, which instantly zoom the camera with a click of your mouse button. While I continue to be impressed by the latest release of Google Earth, having a similar interface without the need to install an app is just plain cool.