Tag Archives: how to

How to Read a USGS Topo Map

Classic 7.5 minute USGS topographic map for Manitou Springs, Colorado, 1961. Credit: U.S. Geological Survey. We recently covered the basics of topographic maps, including how to read contour lines, and how to use the maps to plan your next outing. In this post, we’ll go into more detail about U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topo maps.… Read More »

How to Read OpenStreetMap Based Topo Maps

While we’ve covered how to read a topo map and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps in particular, OpenStreetMap-based topos are increasingly popular resources that merit their own post. In this post you will learn how to read OpenStreetMap-based topo map. The OpenStreetMap (OSM) project leverages the knowledge of millions of people around the globe to… Read More »