When the TerraTrails application launches, users are taken to a login screen where they can either log in with an existing account or create a new account. After creating an account, users are asked to provide an email, password, and name. The login process verifies the email and password match the information provided during account creation. Upon successful login or account creation, users are taken to the main map screen. From there, they can access features like viewing trail descriptions and profiles, searching for friends, and changing account settings.