Beginner's Guide to Reading Topographic Maps, by On the Trail NZ on YouTube. 5 min 22 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 22 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Start by finding the map's key parts: the title, the legend, the scale bar and the north arrow. The legend explains the symbols for tracks, huts, rivers and roads.
Check the scale bar to see what a set distance on the map equals on the ground. A common topo scale is 1:50,000, where 1 cm on paper is 500 m on the ground.
Measure the route with a ruler or a piece of string, then convert it using the scale to get the real distance. Add extra time for hills and rough ground.
Study the contour lines. Each line joins points of equal height, and the gap between lines tells you how steep the ground is. Closely spaced lines mean steep ground.
Find peaks by looking for the smallest closed contour ring, often marked with a height number or a triangle. The ground rises toward the centre.
Spot ridges as long lines of higher ground with contours dropping away on both sides. They often make easier walking than the sides of a valley.
Identify valleys where contour lines form a V or U shape pointing uphill, with a stream often running along the bottom.
Look for spurs, which are ridges jutting out from a hillside. Their contours form a V pointing downhill, away from the main ridge.
Find saddles as low points between two peaks, where the contours dip on both sides. They are useful for crossing between valleys.
Use the legend to pick out other features like huts, bridges, fences and track markers, then match them to what you see on the ground.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the map set to north using the north arrow or your compass so directions stay consistent.
Practice on a local hill you know well to see how its shape looks in contour lines.
Carry a paper map and compass as a backup, since phone batteries can die in the cold or wet.
Check the contour interval in the legend so you know how much height each line represents.
Questions
What does a contour line show?
It joins points at the same height above sea level. The shape and spacing of the lines show the steepness and form of the land.
How do I tell a spur from a valley?
A valley's contour V points uphill, while a spur's V points downhill. Spurs stick out from a hillside and valleys cut into it.
Do I need a compass to read a topo map?
Not to read the shapes, but a compass helps you line the map up with the ground and follow a bearing. It is worth carrying one.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
