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Aug 28, 2023 · Updated: May 27. Contour mapping is a technique used in cartography and geography to represent the three-dimensional shape and elevation of the Earth's surface on a two-dimensional map. Contour maps display lines called "contour lines" that connect points of equal elevation above a reference datum, typically mean sea level.
- 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.
Contour maps are an essential tool in various fields such as geology, geography, civil engineering, and more. They provide a way to visualize the topography of an area without having to see it in 3D, making it easier to plan, study, and understand the terrain. A contour map is a graphical representation of the terrain or surface of an area.
- 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 · Contour lines show stream direction with the V-shaped lines through which you see the streams and rivers run through on a topo map. Because water flows downhill, the V-shape always points in the opposite direction that the water is flowing. This is called the “Rule of V’s”. Contour Lines vs. Relief.
Aug 10, 2021 · Contour lines are important tools for understanding the terrain and planning routes, whether you’re a hiker, a mountaineer, or a geologist. 1. Understanding Elevation. One of the primary functions of contour lines is to represent changes in elevation. Each contour line on a map represents a specific elevation above sea level, and the lines ...
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Sep 6, 2023 · Identify the Contour Interval. Before diving into the details of the map, locate the contour interval. This is often found in the map’s legend or key. The contour interval tells you the elevation difference between consecutive contour lines. 2. Look for Index Contours. These are the bolder lines on the map and are usually labeled with their ...
