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 the USGS web site.

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.