Read Topographic Map

Expert’s Picks: Read Topographic Map

  • How to Read a Topographic Map

    United States Geological Survey topographic maps contain information about the terrain and land features of a particular area. Understanding how to interpret a topographical map can provide important information for hikers, hunters or anyone who needs information about a certain portion of land. It is important to spend some time learning about how the maps… read more

Related Read Topographic Map Articles & Videos

  • Basics of Hiking

    For centuries, writers have waxed poetic about the glories of hiking. Indeed, in our modern, high-tech society, many people get the urge to abandon the computer and head to the woods. Some come prepared. Others do not. Hiking requires… read more

  • How to Read Topographic Maps

    Sometimes using topographic maps is far superior to standard maps. These maps do not show you the locations of towns and other points of interest, they show you the topography of the landscape. What that means is that these maps show y… read more

  • How to Use a Topographic Map

    Being able to read a topographical map (one that depicts the shape of the Earth's surface) means you will have the knowledge to navigate a world of off-trail areas and backcountry wilderness. Using a topographical map is indispensable… read more

  • How to Read Topographical Maps

    Topographical maps display surface features of the Earth. In addition to bodies of water, roads, buildings and rail lines, they use contour lines to describe elevation. There are two distinct parts of a topographical map: the map face… read more

Read Topographic Map Photos

  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

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  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

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  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

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