Knowing how to read a topographic map is the foundation of any backcountry adventure. Through the use of contour lines, topo maps bring a 3-dimensional element to a 2-dimensional paper map. Topo maps allow you to visualize the rise and fall of the land and “see” the depths of canyons...
A simple guide on how to read a topographic map and feel confident using it outside, with a 3d video demonstration.
You probably know that a magnetized compass and a paper map are part of theTen Essentials. Learning to read that paper topo map (short for topographic map) is every bit as essential. Your map will then be able to tell you a richly detailed tale about the terrain you'll be exploring. T...
The thin brown lines snaking around a topographic map arecontour lines. All points along the same contour line are at the same elevation above sea level. Think of a contour line as a closed loop: By following a contour line on the ground, you would travel neither uphill nor downhill, eve...
Note the elevations. Document the current minimum and maximum elevations of the y-axis for the topographic profile. Calculate the vertical exaggeration. Using the formula of real units of horizontal scale solve for vertical exaggeration. For example, for a 1:500000 topographical map if 1 cm units...
And if you were to look down at that sundae from above, (paying special attention to the whipped cream) you would see lots of lines. These lines would circle all the way around the mountain you just created and would be very similar to something called a topographic map. ...
Regardless of whether or not you think navigating is cool and that it will endear you to attract future mates, if you’re headed out into the bush, you should know how to read a map and compass. Even using GPS devices to get around, you’re going to have to be able to orient yours...
Matthew has a Master of Arts degree in Physics Education. He has taught high school chemistry and physics for 14 years. Cite this lesson Maps represent actual locations of areas, landforms, and water bodies. Learn how to read a map and find out the meaning and significance of contours, rout...
In order to be useful, topographic maps must show sufficient information on a map size that is convenient to use. This is accomplished by selecting a map scale that is neither too large nor too small and by enhancing the map details through the use of symbols and colors. ...
ReadHow to Use a Compassfor a refresher on how to take a bearing in the field and from a map. Whenever you transfer a magnetic bearing taken in the field to your map, you add the magnetic declination to get the true bearing. (Note that a west declination is, in essence, subtracted ...