How to Read a Topographic Map

Lots More Information

Re­lated HowStuffWorks Articles

• How Maps Work
• How Brain Mapping Works
• What are fuel mapping computers?
• How can I survive a night in the Alaskan wilderness?
• How to Find True North
• What is the most important survival tool in the jungle?

More Great Links

• USGS Topographic Maps
• USGS Map Store

Sources

• Bowie, Soren. "Preparing for a Hike Using a Topographic Map." Trails.com. 2008. (Feb. 18, 2009) http://www.trails.com/articles/preparing-for-a-hike-using-a-topographic-map.aspx
• National Resources Canada. "Topographic Maps - Tips and Hints." Sept. 28, 2018. (April 8, 2020) https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/earth-sciences/geography/topographic-information/maps/national-topographic-system-maps/topographic-maps-tips-and-hints/9809
• Reed, Mary. "How to Read a Topo Map." Get Out! 2009. (April 8, 2020) http://www.getoutzine.com/node/593
• Riesterer, Jim. "Map Scales." Geospatial Training & Analysis Cooperative. April 7, 2008. (April 8, 2020) http://geology.isu.edu/wapi/geostac/Field_Exercise/topomaps/map_scale.htm
• U.S. Geological Survey. "Map Scales." Aug. 3, 2006. (April 8, 2020) https://prd-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/atoms/files/Map%20Scales.pdf
• U.S. Geological Survey."Topographic Map Symbols." April 28, 2005. (April 8, 2020) https://prd-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/atoms/files/Topographic%20Map%20Symbols.pdf
• U.S. Geological Survey. "Topographic Mapping." Feb. 25, 2008. (Feb. 13, 2009) http://egsc.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/booklets/topo/topo.html
• U.S. Geological Survey. "USGS Maps Online Edition." April 13, 2005. (Feb. 13, 2009) http://egsc.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/booklets/usgsmaps/usgsmaps.html