A topographic map will add new dimensions to your hiking and backpacking treks

Ready to scale up your hiking or backpacking skills? Consider using a topographic map on your next wilderness trip. Have you ever looked at a map and wondered where the hills and valleys were? Have you ever wondered how high that hill ahead was and how far it stretched? A topographic map will give you those answers and more.

Topographic maps show the three-dimensional ups and downs of features on the Earth's surface on a two-dimensional paper map. A topographic map lets you can see the height and extent of geological objects like mountains, valleys, rivers or streams.

Contour lines indicate the shape and elevation of landscape features and connect locations of equal measures of elevation on a topographic map. So you'll know the height and base circumference of that big hill (in case you have to hike over or around it!)  The maps come in various scales however 1:24,000 or one inch equals two thousand feet, is popular scale for hikers and backpackers. The entire map is usually color-coded to facilitate easy identification of features or landmarks such as forests and glaciers. Apart from hiking trails these maps also shows man-made features like roads, bridges, power lines and dams.

Hikers and backpackers should be able to find maps for all popular destinations or national parks. You can purchase maps printed on waterproof paper or on a CD, so you can use your computer to print out just the area you want. So take the time to acquire and use an affordable topographic map. It will enhance and simplify both the planning and execution of your next adventure in the wild.

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About The Author:

Rita Liotta is a successful author and publisher at www.1st-at-camping-gear.com.  Recommending camping equipment, tents, backpacks, GPS, binoculars, sleeping bags, hiking boots, camping stoves, containers, water purifiers, compasses, topographical maps, pocket knives & hammocks
10-04-04