Topographic Map Symbols

United States Geological Service (USGS) topographic maps use standard colors, patterns, and symbols. Once you have learned these, you can read topographic maps easily. Study the legend on the left before working on the map assignments. For more topographic map information and symbols, go to USGS or Dr. Michael Pidwirny's web site (a very detailed set of map symbols).

Work slowly and carefully; these maps provide very detailed information that reveal a great deal about the physical (environmental) and human (cultural) attributes of places.

You can always get actual topographic maps for most of the United States.