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Course Outline

Topographic Map

Whenever you’re in a remote or unfamiliar area, a topographic map and compass are a must.

Topographic maps are created from aerial photographs and reveal the contours of the land, including hills, ridges, and valleys, as well as lakes, rivers, creeks, trails, and roads.

  • Contour lines show the elevation of the ground.
  • Contour intervals reveal how much vertical distance there is between each contour line—closely spaced contour lines indicate very steep slopes.
  • Contour lines that are sharply tapered indicate an uphill direction.
  • Rounded contour lines typically indicate a downhill direction.
  • Unit 8 of 10
  • Topic 2 of 5
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