A topographic map is a lot like a physical map because it indicates different physical landscape features. These maps are different on the other hand because they use contour lines rather than colors showing changes in the land. Topographical maps are special types of maps that show the different land features.
Contour lines on topographic maps are usually spaced at regular intervals showing elevation changes and the closer the lines are together, the steeper the terrain.
These maps can be used for a variety of reasons, from camping, hunting, fishing, and hiking to urban planning, resource managing, and surveying.
The thing about relief or topographical maps is that they show the true lay of the land. That includes streams, valleys, rivers, mountains, hills, and more. They also display important landmarks and roads.
Features:
A topographic map is a detailed and accurate illustration of man-made and natural features on the ground such as roads, railways, power transmission lines, contours, elevations, rivers, lakes, and geographical names. Since they represent the Earth's features accurately and to scale on a two-dimensional surface they are an excellent planning tool and guide and, at the same time, help make outdoor adventures enjoyable and safe.
Topographic maps identify numerous ground features, which can be grouped into the following categories:
- Relief: mountains, valleys, slopes, depressions as defined by contours
- Hydrography: lakes, rivers, streams, swamps, rapids, falls
- Vegetation: wooded areas
- Transportation: roads, trails, railways, bridges, airports/airfields, seaplane anchorages
- Culture: buildings, urban development, power transmission line, pipelines, towers
- Boundaries: international, provincial/territorial, administrative, recreational, geographical
- Toponymy: place names, water feature names, landform names, boundary names