How to Read a Topo Map, by REI on YouTube. 3 min 48 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 48 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Look at the map legend first. It explains the scale, the contour interval and the symbols for trails, water, roads and buildings. Check the contour interval number so you know how much elevation each line represents.
Find the contour lines. These thin brown lines connect points of equal elevation. Lines close together mean steep ground. Lines far apart mean gentle slopes.
Read the numbers on the index contours. Every fifth line is usually thicker and labeled with its elevation. Use these numbers to work out whether you are going uphill or downhill.
Spot the shapes. Circles or closed loops with small lines inside mean hilltops. V shapes pointing uphill mean a valley or drainage. U shapes often mark a ridge or spur.
Check the scale bar. It tells you how far a measured distance on the paper is on the ground. Use it to estimate how long each leg of your route will take.
Find north. The legend or margin shows which way is north, often with a declination note. Turn the map so it lines up with the land around you.
Match features around you to the map. Compare nearby peaks, streams and trail junctions with the symbols on the paper. This confirms where you are.
Plan your route using the contours. Pick paths that follow gentle slopes where possible. Note steep sections, creek crossings and any landmarks you can use along the way.
Tips and common mistakes
Contour lines that form a V always point upstream, so use them to find the direction of a creek.
A closed loop with no hachures is usually a hilltop, while a loop with tick marks inside is a depression.
Keep the map folded to the section you need and store it in a clear map case so rain does not ruin it.
Practice on a short local trail before relying on a topo map in remote country.
Questions
What is a contour interval?
It is the elevation difference between two neighboring contour lines. A 20 foot interval means each line is 20 feet higher or lower than the next one.
Do I need a compass to read a topo map?
No, you can read terrain and plan routes without one. A compass helps you orient the map to north and follow a bearing in the field.
How do I tell how steep a slope is?
Look at how close the contour lines are. Tightly packed lines mean a steep climb, while widely spaced lines mean an easy grade.
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.
