How To Read A Topographic Survey Map. With all those map basics out of the way, we can finally start looking at how to actually read a topographic map. Geological survey (usgs) topo maps.
A map’s scale is typically represented in inches on american maps. Classic 7.5 minute usgs topographic map for manitou springs, colorado, 1961. How to use topographic maps edition 4.
You can look at a topographic map and quickly see where the hills, rivers, peaks, and valleys are.
Surveying has to do with the determination of the relative spatial location of points on or near the surface of the earth. With all those map basics out of the way, we can finally start looking at how to actually read a topographic map. This contour and elevation information distinguishes them from other maps. A topographic map can be easy to read once you know the details.