Preparing for a Hike Using a Topographic Map

Using the great outdoors for recreational purposes is a great idea, whether you're looking for some adventure on your own, a nice family outing, or even some intense physical activity. While there are those satisfied with keeping to the beaten path, others would rather be a true outdoors man, and make it on their own. While this can be very exciting and rewarding, it can also be somewhat risky and dangerous. Stomping off into the wilderness without a plan or a route can quickly turn a fun outing into a serious scenario. Luckily there are numerous tools and resources provided to the public that can make even beginner hikers as knowledgeable as the most seasoned trail guides.

So what is the single most important tool that is needed to conquer the great outdoors? It's that thing most guys feel isn't really that important but it is. The answer is a map. But not just a regular map, since you won't be concerned about cities or the nearest rest stop. Rather it is a special type of map, dedicated to the natural landscape of the Earth, not just man made networks. This map is called a topographic map, simply meaning depicting the Earth's surface. We have all seen them, probably back in high school science class, but never paid them much attention. Overcrowded, confusing, and boring, those maps never served a purpose and always resulted in a headache and frustration. Maybe they never seemed that important, but without them, its going to be quite difficult to maneuver your way through the wild without getting lost. Topographic maps not only help in determining your position, but they play a crucial role in planning a route, finding shelter, and avoiding dangers.

Topographic maps were first created in the late 18th century by the French, for use in positioning military forces. Since then, almost every country has done extensive work to form detailed maps of their respective territories. In the United States, the job of providing these maps has been the responsibility of the United States Geological Survey, which was founded in the late 1800s. Today there are a wide range of uses for topographical maps, from large scale construction, to personal use. For an individual unfamiliar with these maps, interpreting them can be a nightmare. There's often so much information put on those maps, that it is overwhelming to try and decipher one. After handling a few, it becomes easier to comprehend however, and after a few hands on experiences, it becomes quite simple and fun!

The first step to using a topographical map is becoming accustomed to its style and setup. At first glance, it appears to be a random bundle of lines and marks in a confusing pattern. Don't get too hung up on it, just know that every detail has its importance and it's all connected. It's like a puzzle; the hardest step is finding that first piece. Some maps will be easier to read than others, with colors and obvious labels. Also, familiarize yourself with the map legends. Located long the borders of the maps, these are important in determining such variables as colors, elevation, and distance, as well as providing orientation in terms of North. They also serve to mark landmarks that are extremely useful in determining one's location.
One of the main components of a topographic map is elevation. The object is to show three dimensional perspective on a two dimensional figure. On the map, there is a series of lines, usually parallel to one another, and in winding patterns. You don't have to strain too hard to find them, they are quite numerous and the most prevalent aspect of most maps. Most maps will display these are brown lines. These lines are called contour lines, because they show the contour of the Earth. Simply put, they show elevation. Every point along a single line represents an equal height above sea level. Think of a children's coloring book, where lines and numbered labels are used to determine which color goes where. While at first it appears these lines are placed randomly without purpose, they in fact are the simplest way to depict elevation. Since each line represents a different elevation, lines can never cross one another, but can come extremely close. To avoid clutter, usually only the lines of major magnitude are labeled (ex: every 10 or 100 ft, depending on the landscape). There is always a key on the map, letting the reader know which scale is being used. Areas where there is a drastic change in elevation will generally use a larger scale. While each map varies, the scale applies to the whole map. So, if the scale for a particular map is 10ft, and there are two lines running parallel, it is known that 10ft of elevation separate the two points. So how can you tell which one is higher? Well, if they are labeled then it is easy to quickly tell. However, if neither is labeled, then look for lines that are labeled on either side of your location in question, and use those as reference points. For example, say you have a point, A, that lies on a line on the map. The line directly west of it has point B. The line after that reads 50 ft. If the line directly east of A reads 20ft and the scale is 10ft, then A and B must be 30ft and 40ft, respectively. After a few times practicing, it becomes fairly simple.

There are a few other things that need to be known about contour lines. While glancing over most topographic maps, you will notice that many contour lines form circles. These represent peaks and lows in elevations. Where you have a series of lines forming circles, it represents a peak in elevation, such as a hill or mountain. If it is a low point, the lowest circle will have dashed lines intersecting the contour (it kind of looks like rail road tracks). Eventually, there will be a point where there is area enclosed by an empty circle. This does not mean there is an area of flat land at the top or bottom, but rather the change in elevation is not enough to merit the next contour line. Recognizing whether it is a peak or a low is very important, since the two will look the same until the last circle. This is why it is important to pay attention to all labels that are on the map. Now, obviously some peaks and lows will be more extreme than others. This will be represented by more lines. The more lines that are crossed, the greater the change in elevation is. Also, the proximity of the lines is very important. Where there are lines spaced very tightly, that is an indication of steep terrain, as there is a great change in elevation over a short horizontal distance. This is obviously something to try and avoid while traversing through the outdoors. Rather, stick to areas with far spaced contour lines, since those will be the areas with the most gradual differences in elevation. Of course if you're looking for that extra challenge then the steeper the better! In addition to peaks and lows, be on the lookout for valleys. The contours around a valley for a V shape, with the tip of the V pointing towards higher elevations. This is important to recognize, since areas may appear passable and nearby, but in fact could be separated by a deep, dangerous valley.

Being able to interpret elevation from a topographical map is perhaps the most important aspect. However, there are many more useful tools that are provided through these maps. Most topographical maps are produced in color, which allow readers to quickly focus and orient themselves. Such aspects such as developed land, thick forests, open fields, or water can easily be distinguished by differences in color. Forests will be shown in a green shade, with the darker areas representing the thickest vegetation. Obviously the thicker forests will be harder to move through and allow for easier disorientation, so perhaps they should be avoided. Water will be shown in blue, while open fields could either be a light green or a pale yellow. Developed areas such can be seen as black or even red. Also, depending on the size of the map, such things as roads or individual buildings can be marked. The smaller the area in question, the more attention to detail you will find. It is important to take all these aspects into account when planning a trip. If you're looking for a scenic retreat, you would want to know where commercial areas are so you may avoid them. Also, if you're planning on spending an extended period outdoors, knowing the location of fresh water can be crucial.

There are numerous other labels that can be found on topographical maps. These aspects, which are usually identified somewhere on the map, deal with distinguishing boundaries, surface type, buildings, coastal features, railroads, water bodies, vegetation, power lines, and more. Because each of these categories have variables, it is important to pay attention to detail, since minor differences in color shading or patterns can represent different things. These are all important factors to take into account, to ensure you don't wander onto private property or an unsafe location. For beginners and veterans and alike, this characteristics can help serve as landmarks, and help keep travelers on the right path. Having a general idea of the area you'll be entering is a smart idea so you will not be surprised by anything.
Reading a map is one thing, but being able to apply your knowledge in the field is another. So what steps are required to ensure a successful outdoor adventure? The first step that is needed is planning. Without a solid plan of action, there is the risk of minor setbacks becoming large problems. So before you even leave your home, sit down with a topographical map (which you no longer are afraid of!) and begin planning. The most important thing is your intention. Are you going for a short walk to enjoy some natural sights, or are you going for a week long camping and hiking experience. While they both are very different, they require a plan. So with your own personalized trip in mind, select a destination. Make sure it is in an area where you're allowed to be. The last thing you want to do is set up camp in someone else's backyard. Also, make sure it's a safe location that is accessible from multiple routes. It is important to always make sure you have options. Using your knowledge of topography, make sure to pick a location that not only will make your trip spectacular, but is also a logical choice. If you're spending a night, don't set up camp on a steep slope or at the base of a hill, or you'll run the risk of flooding if it rains. The next step that is important is planning your route. Knowing where you want to end up is good, but it won't count for anything if you can't get there. Don't worry about every step you'll take, just have a general idea, as well as a backup in case there is some sort of unplanned blockade. Downed trees don't show up on topographical maps, so be able to adapt to anything. Pick a route that uses landmarks, to help ensure you stay on course. Avoid putting yourself in dangerous situations, such as steep inclines or having to cross water. Also keep in mind your own physical limitations, as well as those accompanying you. If you're traveling with children, an extended hike on challenging terrain isn't the best idea.
There is only so much planning you can do. Once you're out there, you need to adapt to any situation. Being logical and cautious will help you deal with any situation that was not planned for, such as hazardous weather or an animal encounter. Pack a first aide kit, and try to avoid being caught out in dangerous storms. In addition, plan for the fact that you could be without cell-phone service if you're relying on that in case of an emergency. Also, if you get off track, don't panic. The beauty about the great outdoors is there is more than way to go. If your not on your exact route, its fine. Just use your map to reorient yourself, and adjust your route accordingly. Having a compass will make this easier, but even without one it should be relatively easy to do so based off of the terrain. This is why it is important to pick routes that have distinguishable features. Also, remember things won't always appear exactly as you imagined them in your head. Just because something appears safe and passable on a map, doesn't mean it is the case. Use your better judgment, especially when it comes moving water or steep and rocky locations.

Knowledge and logic are the two most important factors in determining whether your trip is successful or a disaster. Smart planning and adaptation are essential. By using a topographic map correctly, recreational hikers and expert climbers can plan a safe, fun, effective route, and be able to handle any situation. With a calm head, a stranded individual should be able to use a topographic map to safely make his way from an unknown area back to civilization. Remember that every map is different, and be sure to read the labels carefully. Always be on the cautious side since maps can only provide so much information. First hand observation needs to be the final deciding factor in any decision made.

Topographic maps are an amazing tool, and unlimited fun and experience can be derived from mastering the art of reading these maps.

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