Essential Map Symbols Every Outdoorsman Should Know?

Reading Terrain Contours

To read terrain contours, follow these steps: Identify the contour interval, which is the vertical distance between each contour line, and note the direction of the contour lines’ slope. For example, if the contour interval is 20 feet and the lines are spaced 100 feet apart, this indicates a change in elevation of 2,000 feet over a distance of 5 miles. Recognize that contour lines converge when approaching a peak or ridge and diverge when moving away from them.

Identifying Man-Made Features

Recognize symbols indicating man-made features such as: roads, which are often represented by a series of parallel lines or a solid line; buildings, which are typically represented by a rectangle or a series of connected rectangles; and boundaries, which are generally represented by a solid or dashed line. Pay attention to the size and pattern of the symbols, as these can indicate the type of feature and its importance. For instance, a solid line may signify a major highway, while a dashed line may indicate a minor road or trail.

Using the Legend Key

Every map has a legend key, which explains the symbols and colors used on the map. Familiarize yourself with the legend key to quickly identify features and understand the map’s layout. Pay attention to the scale, which is usually indicated by a bar or a ratio, to ensure that you’re reading the map at the correct size. Use the legend key to understand the colors used for different features, such as forests, water bodies, and urban areas, to gain a better understanding of the terrain and its characteristics.