In order to keep things simple, topographic maps show lines for certain elevations only. These lines are evenly spaced apart. We call this spacing thecontour interval. For example, if your map uses a 10-foot contour interval, you will see contour lines for every 10 feet (3 meters) of ele...
The contour line traces the outline of the terrain at evenly spaced elevations. These are determined by the contour interval. The contour interval is found below the map scale. For this map, the contour interval is 20 feet. That means that every time you go up to another brown line the ...
If your map skills are rusty, it’s time to brush up. Maps and compasses are the best backups to your navigation system (no battery or cell service required), and will give you an understanding of the ground you’re hiking on that you just can’t get following a gadget. More importan...
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 thick lines are known as index lines and can help you determine specific elevations. 2. Know Your Scale— The scaling of topographic maps is the same as the scaling of standard maps. It shows the relative distance of the map to the physical world. A map’s scale is typically ...
Valleys, Ravines, and Gullies– Contour lines in a U-shaped pattern will indicate rounded gullies, and V-shaped lines will denote sharper changes in altitude. Both the U and V shapes will point uphill toward higher elevations. You’re likely to find trace amounts of water by traversing thro...
The first maps were based on sketches that surveyors made using analog tools to measure distance, angles, and elevations.Look for these survey markers on your hike, especially on summits (there's a database of all of them in the USA here). They were put there by a human that was ...
Consider donating to them. These avalanche centers produce daily reports that communicate danger on a 1-5 scale from Low to Extreme for a range of elevations and elaborate on specific hazards and slope aspects you should be cautious of. By following the storm cycles in your local region, and...
Elevation views– Right, left, front, and rear elevations Cross-section views Isometric views Plan view The plan view is a bird’s-eye view of a structure from above. It’s probably the most recognizable form of blueprint to most people: a two-dimensional or “flat” view drawn as if ...
Elevations (includes lighting) To illustrate how to read floor plans, we'll be looking at a made up case study house so you can follow through the plans, all for one house. Why go to the trouble of learning how to read house plans?