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Map Reading Essentials
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Contour Lines
Indicate elevation and the shape of the terrain. Closer lines mean steeper terrain.
Blue Lines
Represent bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and swamps.
Green Color
Indicates the presence of vegetation such as woods or forests.
Red or Brown Lines
Often represent roads, trails, or paths on a map.
Crossed Swords
Denotes a historic battlefield or military area.
Black Dotted Lines
Represent boundaries such as state lines, national park borders, or private property.
Magnetic North Arrow
Points towards magnetic north, important for orienting your map with a compass.
Star Symbol
Denotes a point of interest or landmark that is important for navigation.
Hachure Lines
Denote depressions or holes in the terrain, opposite of contour lines.
Red Overlapping Circles
Signify a radio tower or significant communication antenna.
Purple Shading
Indicates revised or updated information since the original publication of the map.
Brown X
Represents a dead-end or a trail that is no longer in use.
Campsite Symbol
A tent or tree icon that represents an official or designated campsite.
Black Solid Circle
Often indicates a man-made feature such as a building, well, or monument.
Light Green Shading
Suggests areas with lighter or sparser vegetation, possibly grasslands or clearings.
Yellow Color
Represents open land such as fields, meadows, or deserts without much vegetation.
Short Red Ticks
These are survey markers that can be useful for precise navigation and location verification.
Isogonic Line
A line connecting points of equal magnetic declination on a map.
White Color
Typically illustrates snow or ice-covered terrain which requires special navigation considerations.
Scallop Shell Symbol
Denotes a pilgrimage route or trail, such as the Camino de Santiago.
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