USGS Topographic Maps

• What is the largest map you can fabricate?  There is no limit to the size of a map we can build.  There are practical limits that will impact shipping and installation, but we work closely with our customers on these special requirements.
• What type of 3D maps can you fabricate?  All types.  Satellite Maps, Terrain Maps, Topographical Maps, Raised Relief Maps, USGS Maps, Contour Maps, and many more.
• Can you fabricate with different technologies and materials?  Yes.  Our most common fabrication technology is 3D Printing, but we can also build 3D Maps with CNC Cutting, 3D Foam, Molding/Casting, Thermoforming, and Sculpting.
• What materials can you 3D print in?  We match the correct material and fabrication process to your requirements in terms of presentation, size, and transportability.  We can 3D print in PLA, FDM, Full-Color Sandstone, UV-cured resin, plastic, rubber-like, acrylic, and nylon – as well as combining multiple technologies.
• Can you sign a Non-disclosure Agreement that you supply?  Yes.
• How long will it take to create my map?  That depends on the design and size of the map.  A more complex or detailed map will take longer than a simple map, we can’t really say exactly how long it will take until we have the chance to understand what type of map you want fabricated.  Generally, smaller standard maps can be a couple of weeks and large museum exhibition maps can be 6 months.
• What do you need from me to start the map fabrication?  Boundaries are a good place to start.  Determining map styles, sizes, height (may be exaggerated), and cabinetry needs are all part of the process. Special design features can also be added.
• Can you add homes, buildings, swimming pools, arbors, hardscaping features, etc.?  Yes.  We can 3D print many of these items and include them in our maps.  We refer to these more complex maps as architectural dioramas.
• What is a USGS topo map?  A USGS topo map is a topographical map produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). It is a detailed representation of the Earth’s surface, showing the shape and features of the terrain such as hills, valleys, ridges, and other natural and man-made features. USGS topo maps use contour lines to indicate changes in elevation, which allows users to visualize the shape of the land.  These maps are typically created using aerial photography and other data sources, and are widely used for scientific research, environmental analysis, and outdoor recreation such as hiking, camping, and hunting.   They are also used by government agencies, emergency responders, and others for planning and management purposes.  USGS topo maps are available in a variety of scales, with the most common being 1:24,000 (also known as 7.5-minute quadrangles).  The scale of a map refers to the relationship between the size of the area being mapped and the size of the map itself.  A 1:24,000 scale map, for example, means that one unit of measurement on the map represents 24,000 units of measurement on the ground.  USGS topo maps are an important tool for exploring and understanding the natural world. By showing the physical features of the land, they provide valuable information for scientists, researchers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

• How do I read a USGS topo map?  Reading a USGS topo map can be a little bit complicated, but with practice and patience, it becomes easier. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Get familiar with the map key and scale:  The map key explains the symbols used on the map, and the scale tells you how to interpret the distance on the map.  Look for the scale bar, usually located in the bottom or top corner of the map.

  2. Identify the contour lines:  Contour lines are the most important feature of a topographic map. They are the brown lines that connect points of equal elevation.  Each contour line represents a specific elevation, and the closer the lines are, the steeper the slope.

  3. Determine the elevation:  Look for the contour line that passes closest to the point you are interested in.  The elevation of that point is the elevation of the contour line plus any additional feet or meters between the line and the point.

  4. Find the water features:  Blue lines on the map represent rivers, streams, and other bodies of water.  The closer the lines are, the larger the body of water.

  5. Look for man-made features:  Topographic maps also include symbols for buildings, roads, trails, and other man-made features.  These symbols vary depending on the map, so be sure to refer to the map key.

  6. Orient yourself:  Use the map’s north arrow or declination diagram to orient the map.  This will help you understand the location of features in relation to one another and to your own location.

  7. Plan your route:  Once you are familiar with the map, you can use it to plan your route.  Identify the elevation changes and terrain features to determine the difficulty of the route.

• How is elevation shown on a USGS topographical map?  Elevation is shown on a USGS topographical map using contour lines.  Contour lines are brown lines that connect points of equal elevation.  Each contour line represents a specific elevation, and the closer the lines are, the steeper the slope.  To help you visualize this, imagine a mountain with a peak at the top.  If you were to draw a line around the mountain that connects all the points that are at the same elevation (e.g. 1,000 feet), you would have a contour line.  You would then draw another line around the mountain that connects all the points at a different elevation (e.g. 1,500 feet), and you would have a second contour line.  On a USGS topographical map, the elevation of each contour line is shown in feet or meters.  The lines are labeled with the elevation, typically every fifth line.  For example, if the contour lines are labeled at 100-foot intervals, you would see a label for 100 feet, 200 feet, 300 feet, and so on.  Using the contour lines, you can determine the elevation of any point on the map.  You simply need to find the closest contour line to the point of interest and then estimate the elevation based on the spacing of the contour lines.  For example, if the contour lines are spaced 20 feet apart and the point of interest is halfway between two contour lines labeled 100 feet and 120 feet, you would estimate that the elevation is 110 feet.

• What do the contour lines on a USGS topographical map represent?  The contour lines on a USGS topographical map represent points of equal elevation.  They are brown lines that connect all the points on the map that are at the same elevation above sea level.

  Each contour line represents a specific elevation, and the vertical distance between adjacent contour lines is called the contour interval.  The contour interval is typically labeled on the map and indicates the difference in elevation between two adjacent contour lines.  For example, a contour interval of 10 feet means that each contour line represents a difference in elevation of 10 feet.

  Contour lines provide important information about the terrain of an area.  They show the shape and steepness of the land, as well as the location of ridges, valleys, and other topographic features.  For example, if the contour lines are spaced closely together, it indicates a steep slope, while widely spaced contour lines indicate a gentle slope.

• What is the scale of a USGS topographical map?  The scale of a USGS topographical map refers to the relationship between the size of the map and the actual size of the area it represents. Specifically, it is the ratio of the distance on the map to the corresponding distance on the ground.

  USGS topographical maps are available in a variety of scales, ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:1,000,000. The most common scale for USGS topographical maps is 1:24,000, which means that one unit of measurement on the map (such as an inch or a centimeter) represents 24,000 units of the same measurement on the ground.

  For example, if the scale of a USGS topographical map is 1:24,000, then one inch on the map would represent 24,000 inches (or 2,000 feet) on the ground.  This scale is often used for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities in a specific area.

  Other common scales for USGS topographical maps include 1:100,000 and 1:250,000, which are used for regional planning and navigation.  Larger scales, such as 1:1,000,000, are used for general reference and overview maps.

  It is important to note that the scale of a USGS topographical map affects the level of detail that is shown on the map.  Maps with smaller scales (e.g. 1:250,000) show a larger area but with less detail, while maps with larger scales (e.g. 1:24,000) show a smaller area but with more detail.

• How do I calculate gradient on a USGS topographical map?  To calculate the gradient on a USGS topographical map, you need to determine the change in elevation between two points and the distance between those points.  The gradient is the ratio of the change in elevation to the distance traveled.

  Here’s a simple formula to calculate gradient:

  Gradient = Change in Elevation / Distance Traveled

  To illustrate this, let’s say you want to calculate the gradient of a hiking trail on a USGS topographical map.  You can follow these steps:

  1. Identify two points on the trail that you want to calculate the gradient between.  These points can be marked on the map using a pen or pencil.

  2. Determine the elevation of each point using the contour lines on the map.  You can find the elevation by looking for the closest contour line and estimating the elevation based on the contour interval. For example, if the contour interval is 20 feet and the closest contour line is labeled 100 feet, the elevation of the point would be 100 feet.

  3. Subtract the elevation of the starting point from the elevation of the ending point to get the change in elevation.

  4. Measure the distance between the two points using a ruler or a scale on the map.  Make sure the units of measurement match, such as inches or centimeters.

  5. Divide the change in elevation by the distance traveled to get the gradient.  The result will be a ratio, such as 1:10 or 1:20. You can also convert this ratio to a percentage by multiplying it by 100.

  For example, if the change in elevation is 200 feet and the distance traveled is 1,000 feet, the gradient would be:

  Gradient = Change in Elevation / Distance Traveled Gradient = 200 feet / 1,000 feet Gradient = 1:5

  In this case, the gradient would also be 20% (1:5 x 100 = 20%).  This means that for every 5 units of distance traveled, there is a 1-unit change in elevation.

• What is the contour interval on a USGS topographical map?  The contour interval on a USGS topographical map is the vertical distance between adjacent contour lines.  Each contour line on the map represents a specific elevation, and the contour interval indicates the difference in elevation between two adjacent contour lines.

  For example, if the contour interval on a USGS topographical map is 10 feet, then each contour line represents a difference in elevation of 10 feet. If the elevation of one contour line is 100 feet, the next contour line above it would represent an elevation of 110 feet, and the contour line below it would represent an elevation of 90 feet.

  The contour interval is typically labeled on the map and varies depending on the scale of the map and the topography of the area represented. In areas with steep terrain, the contour interval may be smaller to show more detail, while in areas with gentle slopes, the contour interval may be larger.

  Knowing the contour interval is important when reading a USGS topographical map because it allows you to determine the elevation of specific points on the map and to visualize the topography of the area.  By counting the number of contour lines between two points, you can calculate the difference in elevation between those points.

• How do I add USGS topographic maps to Google Earth?  To add USGS topographic maps to Google Earth, you can follow these steps:

  1. Go to the USGS website and download the topographic map you want to use in KML format. Make sure the map is in KML format, as Google Earth does not support other file formats.

  2. Open Google Earth on your computer.

  3. In the left-hand panel, click on “My Places” to expand the folder.

  4. Right-click on “My Places” and select “Add” > “Folder” to create a new folder for your USGS topographic maps.

  5. Name the folder something like “USGS Topographic Maps” and click “OK” to create the folder.

  6. Right-click on the new folder and select “Import KML File” to add the USGS topographic map to Google Earth.

  7. Browse to the location where you saved the USGS topographic map on your computer and select the KML file.

  8. Click “Open” to add the USGS topographic map to Google Earth. The map will appear in the left-hand panel under the folder you created.

  9. You can now view the USGS topographic map in Google Earth by clicking on the map in the left-hand panel. The map will be displayed in the 3D view of Google Earth, and you can zoom in and out and adjust the view as needed.

  Repeat steps 4 to 9 for any additional USGS topographic maps you want to add to Google Earth.

  Note that some USGS topographic maps may not be available in KML format, in which case you may need to use a third-party tool to convert the map to KML format before importing it into Google Earth.

• How do I download topo maps from USGS?  You can download topo maps from USGS by following these steps:

  1. Go to the USGS website at https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/topoview/viewer.

  2. In the search bar at the top of the page, enter the location for which you want to download a topo map. You can enter a specific address, city, state, or zip code.

  3. Use the options on the right-hand side of the page to filter your search results by map scale, date, and other criteria if desired.

  4. Click on the map tile for the area you want to download.  A preview of the map will be displayed.

  5. There are many options for downloading in the desired file format.  Click on the desired file type. 

  6. Repeat steps 4-5 for any additional map tiles you want to download.

  Note that USGS topo maps are available at a variety of scales, and the specific scale and level of detail will depend on the area and the map you select.

• Why do all USGS topographic maps use the same legend?  All USGS topographic maps use the same legend to maintain consistency and standardization across different maps. The legend provides a standardized way of representing features and symbols on the map, making it easier for users to read and interpret different maps.

  The legend used on USGS topographic maps includes a range of symbols and colors that represent different types of features, such as contour lines, roads, water bodies, and vegetation.  By using a consistent set of symbols and colors, users can easily recognize and interpret these features regardless of the location or scale of the map.

  Additionally, the use of a standardized legend makes it easier for cartographers and surveyors to create new maps and update existing ones. By adhering to a common set of symbols and conventions, the process of map-making is streamlined and more efficient.

  Overall, the use of a standardized legend on USGS topographic maps helps to ensure accuracy, consistency, and ease of use for users across a wide range of applications and geographic locations.

• Are standard USGS topos in utm or lat/long?  USGS topographic maps typically include both UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) and latitude/longitude coordinates, as well as a variety of other geographic information, such as contour lines, geographic features, and elevation data.

  The UTM coordinates are often included in the margins of the map and provide a grid-based reference system that can be used to locate specific points on the map.  The latitude/longitude coordinates are typically included on the map itself, allowing users to locate their position using a GPS device or other navigation tool.

  It is worth noting that the accuracy of the coordinates on USGS topographic maps can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the age of the map, the precision of the surveying techniques used, and any changes to the landscape since the map was created.  As such, it is important to use caution when relying on map coordinates for navigation or other critical purposes, and to verify your position using other sources of information whenever possible.

• What is the difference between a 7.5-minute and 15-minute USGS topographical map?  The main difference between a 7.5-minute and 15-minute USGS topographical map is the scale and coverage area of the map.

  A 7.5-minute USGS topographical map covers an area of approximately 7.5 minutes of latitude by 7.5 minutes of longitude, or approximately 1/4 of a degree in both directions.  These maps are typically produced at a scale of 1:24,000, meaning that 1 inch on the map represents 2,000 feet on the ground.  As a result, these maps provide a high level of detail and are useful for navigating on foot or by vehicle in relatively small areas, such as parks, wilderness areas, or rural communities.

  A 15-minute USGS topographical map, on the other hand, covers an area of approximately 15 minutes of latitude by 15 minutes of longitude, or approximately 1/2 of a degree in both directions. These maps are typically produced at a scale of 1:62,500, meaning that 1 inch on the map represents 5,208 feet on the ground.  As a result, these maps provide a broader view of the landscape and are useful for planning trips over larger areas, such as backcountry expeditions, hunting or fishing trips, or driving tours.

• What are some of the symbols on a USGS topographical map?  There are many symbols on a USGS topographical map, but here are some of the most common ones:

  1. Contour lines:  These lines connect points of equal elevation and are used to depict the shape of the terrain.

  2. Spot elevations:  These are points on the map that indicate the exact elevation of a particular location.

  3. Roads:  These symbols indicate different types of roads, including highways, interstates, and smaller roads.

  4. Trails:  These symbols indicate different types of trails, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.

  5. Buildings:  These symbols represent different types of structures, including houses, schools, and churches.

  6. Water features:  These symbols represent different types of bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and streams.

  7. Vegetation:  These symbols represent different types of vegetation, including forests, grasslands, and cultivated fields.

  8. Railroads:  These symbols indicate the location of railroads and their routes.

  9. Boundaries:  These symbols indicate different types of boundaries, including state lines, county lines, and national park boundaries.

  10. Power lines:  These symbols indicate the location of power lines and their routes.

  Overall, the symbols on a USGS topographical map provide a wealth of information about the landscape and the features that exist within it.

• How do I determine the distance between two points on a USGS topographical map?  To determine the distance between two points on a USGS topographical map, you will need to use a ruler or a string and a scale bar.

  1. Find the scale bar on the map.  The scale bar shows the distance that a specific unit of measurement represents on the map.  For example, 1 inch may represent 1 mile.

  2. Determine the distance between the two points on the map by using a ruler or a string.  Make sure that the ruler or string is lined up with the scale bar and that you are using the correct units of measurement.

  3. Once you have determined the distance between the two points on the map, you can convert it to real-world units of measurement, such as feet or kilometers, by using the scale bar.

  It’s important to note that this method will only give you an approximate distance between the two points, as the scale of the map may not be perfectly accurate.  Additionally, this method does not take into account any elevation changes or other factors that may affect the actual distance between the two points.

• How accurate are USGS topographical maps?  USGS topographical maps are generally considered to be accurate, but their level of accuracy can vary depending on several factors.

  The contour lines on a USGS topographical map are typically accurate within a certain range, which is determined by the contour interval. For example, a map with a contour interval of 10 feet will show changes in elevation at increments of 10 feet, but may not accurately represent smaller changes in elevation.

  Additionally, topographical maps can be affected by factors such as changes in the landscape due to natural disasters, construction, or other human activity.  The accuracy of the maps can also be affected by the scale of the map, as smaller scale maps may not show as much detail as larger scale maps.

  To ensure the most accurate information, it is important to use USGS topographical maps in conjunction with other sources of information and to be aware of any potential inaccuracies or limitations.  It is also recommended to regularly update your maps and seek out the most recent versions available.

• How often are USGS topographical maps updated?  The update frequency of USGS topographical maps can vary depending on several factors, including the area covered by the map and the level of detail included.

  Some maps may be updated more frequently than others, particularly those covering areas with rapid changes in the landscape due to natural disasters or human activity.  For example, maps of areas prone to frequent flooding may be updated on a more frequent basis to reflect changes in the landscape caused by floods.

  However, in general, USGS topographical maps are not updated on a regular schedule.  The agency relies on a combination of satellite imagery, aerial photography, and field surveys to update its maps, and updates are typically made on an as-needed basis.

  It’s important to note that while the maps themselves may not be updated on a regular basis, the USGS does provide regular updates to its geographic data sets, which can be used in conjunction with the maps to provide the most up-to-date information possible. Additionally, the USGS provides regular reports on changes to the landscape and other updates that may affect the accuracy of its maps.

• What are some tips for using a USGS topographical map?  Here are some tips for using a USGS topographical map:

  1. Understand the legend:  The legend is key to understanding the information presented on the map. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the symbols and colors used on the map.

  2. Know the scale:  The scale of the map will determine the level of detail and the area covered. Make sure you understand the scale before using the map.

  3. Orient yourself:  Use a compass or GPS device to orient yourself to the map.  This will help you understand the direction of travel and the locations of landmarks.

  4. Use contour lines:  Contour lines can help you visualize the terrain and understand the elevation changes.  Pay attention to the contour intervals and use them to calculate gradients and estimate elevations.

  5. Identify key features:  Look for key features such as rivers, lakes, and mountain peaks.  Use these landmarks to orient yourself and navigate through the map.

  6. Consider the season and weather:  Seasonal changes and weather can affect the landscape and the accuracy of the map.  Take these factors into consideration when using the map.

  7. Use a protective case:  If you plan to take the map into the field, consider using a protective case to keep it safe from the elements.

  8. Practice using the map:  The more you use the map, the more comfortable you will become with its features and information.  Practice using the map in different environments and situations to improve your skills.

• How do I locate landmarks on a USGS topographical map?  To locate landmarks on a USGS topographical map, you can follow these steps:

  1. Look for natural features:  The map will often show natural features such as rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests. Use these features to help orient yourself and locate landmarks.

  2. Look for man-made features:  The map will also show man-made features such as roads, buildings, and structures.  Use these features to help locate landmarks.

  3. Use the legend:  The legend on the map will show symbols for various landmarks such as churches, cemeteries, and other important locations.  Use these symbols to help locate specific landmarks.

  4. Use a grid reference system:  Some maps may have a grid reference system that can help you locate landmarks more precisely.  Use the grid reference system to identify the location of a landmark based on its coordinates.

  5. Use a compass or GPS device:  A compass or GPS device can help you navigate to a specific location on the map.  Use the device to follow a bearing to the landmark.

  6. Use triangulation:  If you can see the landmark from multiple locations, you can use triangulation to determine its location.  Take bearings to the landmark from multiple locations and use the intersection of the bearings to determine the location of the landmark.

• What are some common uses for USGS topographical maps?  USGS topographical maps have a wide range of uses, including:

  1. Hiking and Backpacking:  Topographic maps are commonly used by hikers and backpackers to navigate trails and plan routes.  They help to identify important landmarks, such as peaks, rivers, and valleys, and can aid in avoiding obstacles and hazards.

  2. Hunting and Fishing:  Topographic maps can be used by hunters and fishermen to identify the locations of game animals and fish, as well as important features such as water sources and terrain that may affect hunting or fishing conditions.

  3. Surveying and Engineering:  Topographic maps are commonly used in surveying and engineering projects to identify the locations of natural features such as hills, valleys, and waterways, as well as man-made features such as buildings and roads.

  4. Education and Research:  Topographic maps are often used in educational settings to teach geography, geology, and other related topics.  They are also used by researchers to study the earth’s surface and natural resources.

  5. Emergency Management:  Topographic maps are used by emergency responders and other personnel during natural disasters, such as floods and wildfires, to help identify safe routes and locate areas of concern.

• How do USGS topographical maps compare to other types of maps?  USGS topographical maps are unique in their level of detail and accuracy when it comes to representing the physical features of an area.  While other types of maps may provide more general information such as road networks or political boundaries, topographical maps provide detailed information about the terrain, elevation, and natural features of an area.

  Compared to satellite imagery maps, USGS topographical maps have a much higher level of detail when it comes to elevation and natural features. Satellite imagery can provide valuable information about land use, urban areas, and vegetation, but it may not always accurately represent changes in elevation or subtle variations in terrain.

  In terms of navigational maps, topographical maps provide valuable information for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts that may not be available on other types of maps. While road maps may provide useful information for drivers, they typically do not represent the natural features of an area in as much detail as a topographical map.

  Overall, USGS topographical maps are an essential tool for anyone who needs to understand the physical features of an area in detail, whether it be for outdoor recreation, scientific research, or land management purposes.

Do you have a question we didn’t answer? Don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-385-206-8700 or [email protected].