Objectives  As the management and construction of national parks domestically and internationally have become increasingly mature, and the study of map theory becomes more extensive, research on the creation of national park guide maps remains limited. This study aimed to refine the theoretical framework for the creation of national park guide maps from the perspective of expression elements.

  Methods  The research data was derived from 73 national park guide maps provided by the United States National Park Service and Parks Canada. By summarizing theories in map semiotics, expression elements were categorized into three main types: Textual Elements, Graphic Elements, and Map Graphic Elements, further subdivided into eight subcategories. The study employed frequency statistics and binary logistic regression analysis for data examination.

  Results  The findings revealed that Text Annotations, Concrete Symbols, Line Symbols, and Area Symbols appeared in 100% of the guide maps for U.S. national parks, indicating their universal presence across all American park maps. In Canadian national park guide maps, Text Annotations and Area Symbols also showed a frequency of 100%, with Line graphics and Concrete Images showing relatively high frequencies. Additionally, Text Annotations and Concrete Images were found to have significant correlations with the guide maps of national parks.

  Conclusions  Through the analysis of guide maps from U.S. and Canadian national parks, a classification method for expression elements was proposed. This method provided a theoretical basis and practical approach for the creation of national park guide maps in China, aiding in enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of information conveyed in national park guide maps. This study presented important references for the management, conservation, and recreational activity planning of national parks.