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.
Vertical cliffs are notated by a series of contour lines that are drawn very close together. In some cases, cliffs that are very vertical and high may have contour lines that form a single line.
Use the shape of the contour lines, as well as the space between the contour lines, to help you determine if the path is going to be easy or difficult to hike or climb on foot.
There is usually an elevation number next to the land mass so you know how high above sea level it is. For example, if you see circular contour lines and the number “5400,” this means the land mass is 5,400 feet (2,000 m) above sea level.
Being aware of the blue contour lines helps you plan a route where you do not have to deal with ice or high elevations. Opt to go around these areas or use a different route instead.
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.
Find a complete list of symbols on topographic maps at https://pubs. usgs. gov/gip/TopographicMapSymbols/topomapsymbols. pdf 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.
Dams are notated on the map by two blue squares locked together.
Other man-made objects like wells, tanks, and cemeteries are notated on the map using specific symbols.
Roadside rest areas appear as small black tables 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.
If you can’t tell what side of a feature you are on, locate another feature and determine where you are in relation to both of them.
