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Aug 28, 2023 · Contour maps display lines called "contour lines" that connect points of equal elevation above a reference datum, typically mean sea level. These lines help visualize the topography and relief of a region, making it easier to understand the landforms and changes in elevation.Important aspects to know about contour mapping:1. Con
Each slice would represent a contour line on the map. How to Read Contour Lines on Topographic Maps. Understanding and interpreting contour lines can initially seem challenging, but with some basic knowledge and practice, it becomes quite intuitive. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Identify the Contour Interval Before diving into the details of ...
- Hill (Also: Mountain) – A hill has a distinct single summit and incline that rises above the surrounding area.On the map, there will be several contour “rings” leading to a peak.
- Ridge (Also: Arete or Spur) – A continuous elevated terrain with sloping sides.In the map represented by “U” or “V” shaped contour lines where the higher ground is in the wide opening.
- Valley (Also: Gully, Draw, Couloir) – Long depression in the terrain that has a narrow elevated side and a wide lower opening.A valley can be “V” or “U” shaped and often can be seen as a “negative” to a ridge.
- Saddle (Also: Col or Pass) – A low point between two distinct peaks (or hills) and forms the shape of a saddle.Saddles are represented on the map by a set of rings of a flatter area with two separate ring sets to represent the two peaks.
- Overview
- Assessing the Contour Lines
- Looking at the Colors on the Map
- Identifying Symbols on the Map
- Using the Map
You may use topographic maps when you are hiking to help you navigate the trails. You can also use topographic maps when you are traveling to help you find a location or get a good sense of the roads in the area. Topographic maps are also important when you are planning a backpacking trip, as they will allow you to plot your route ahead of time and...
Use the thicker contour lines to determine the elevation.
Contour lines represent paths or segments of the Earth. Topographic maps are covered in contour lines. Some contour lines are thicker, known as indexed contour lines. They have a number next to them that shows you the elevation of that path or segment.
For example, you may notice there is the number “6500” next to the thicker contour line. This means that everything along that line is 6,500 feet (2,000 m) above sea level.
There are also thin contour lines on the map. These are called intermediate contour lines and are not given an elevation.
Determine the elevation change by looking at the space between the contour lines.
The closer the spaces are between the contour lines, the more rapid the change in elevation. An area with contour lines that are spaced far apart have a fairly low elevation and be easy to hike or walk through. An area with a concentration of contour lines that are very close together have rapid changes in elevation. It has high and low terrain that may be more challenging to walk or hike through.
Notice the color brown for land.
The map will have a lot of brown areas if it has a lot of land. Contour lines are usually brown as well to notate land mass and land features as well as the elevation.
Keep in mind that just because an area is brown does not mean there is a path or trail in this area, just that there is land.
Check for the color green to find vegetation.
Green is on the map wherever there are forest or woods. Green usually appears in large sections to let you know there is a lot of vegetation in the area.
Look for the color blue to locate water features like lakes and rivers.
Look for a blue symbol for glaciers or snowfields.
They are notated by round blue circles with dashed lines inside of the circles. The lines will point in different directions to notate if the glaciers or snowfields are advancing or retreating.
Find a complete list of symbols on topographic maps at
It may be useful to bring a list of symbols with you when you use the map so you can refer to it as needed.
Identify the type of river or lake with blue wave symbols.
Streams and rivers that are ongoing appear as solid blue waves on the map. Streams and rivers that are intermittent, where there is a break in their flow, have dashed lines or dots in the wave.
Determine the scale of the map.
The scale on the map will help you determine the distance between objects and landmarks. This is handy when you want to plan a hike or walk. It can also help you figure out how far you are from landmarks or objects. The scale will appear on the top or bottom of the map and have a ratio next to it. The rain will tell you how to measure distance on the map.
For example, it may say, "SCALE: 1:24,000." This means that 1 inch (2.5 cm) on the map represents 24,000 inches (61,000 cm) on the ground.
There will also be graphic scale under the ratio. The graphic scale will break down the map by miles, feet, and kilometers. Use the graphic scale to make quick estimates of distance on the map.
Locate a tall peak or hill in your area and refer to the map.
If you get lost and need to find your way using a topographic map, try finding a landmark like a tall peak or hill close to you. Then, look on the map for a series of circular contour lines to notate the hill or peak. You can then navigate your way using the peak or hill on the map as a guide.
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Feb 5, 2022 · In the USA, most topos maps have a 40-foot interval between lines. This means if a cliff is less than 40 feet high it can be hidden on the map. Ravines are another small and hard to navigate feature to watch out for. Always use a map with the smallest possible contour intervals to avoid surprises. Ideally, no greater than 1:24k in scale.
Aug 10, 2021 · How To Read A Contour Map. First, it is important to know that contour maps are a popular way to represent the three-dimensional terrain of an area. Contour lines are used on maps to illustrate variations in elevation. By lining up contour lines on a map, you can see how the elevation changes across the space and are able to identify landmarks.
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Jun 5, 2022 · Hills, slopes and mountains are represented on a map using contour lines. By studying the contour lines you can work out lots about the surrounding terrain including gradients of hills, valleys and steepness of climbs. If you already know the basics, check out our advanced guide to reading contours and relief.
