The subject disclosure pertains to systems and methods for storing and maintaining a large volume of data in a hierarchical data structure. In particular, geographical data can be stored in the hierarchical data structure to facilitate location and retrieval of data. In addition, system and methods for retrieving data from the hierarchical data structure are provided. Search queries can specify both the point of origin of the search and a search method or strategy for navigating the hierarchical data structure. In one aspect, the hierarchical data structure can provide for maintaining sibling relationships.