Navigation and Map Reading for Hikers

A map legend is a key that explains the meaning of the symbols used on a map. It helps hikers understand the different features represented on the map, such as roads, trails, water bodies, and vegetation.

Contour lines on a map connect points of equal elevation. They help hikers visualize the topography of the land and understand the changes in elevation as they move from one point to another.

The scale of a map is the ratio between the distance on the map and the corresponding distance on the ground. It is typically expressed as a fraction or a representative fraction (RF).

A compass is used to determine the direction of true north, which is essential for orienting a map and determining the direction of travel.

Orienteering is the process of aligning a map with the surrounding terrain. It involves using a compass to determine the direction of true north and then rotating the map until the features on the map match the features in the landscape.

Declination is the angle between magnetic north and true north. It varies depending on the location and can be found using a declination diagram or a compass.

A grid reference system on a map is used to identify the location of landmarks and features. It consists of a series of grid lines that intersect at right angles, forming a grid of squares.

Resection is the process of determining your current location on a map using two or more known landmarks. It involves drawing lines from your current location to the landmarks on the map and then finding the point where the lines intersect.

Bearing is the angle measured clockwise from true north to the direction of travel. It is used to determine the direction in which you need to travel to reach your destination.

Plotting is the process of measuring distances on a map using a scale or a measuring wheel. It involves marking the starting and ending points of the route on the map and then using a ruler or a measuring wheel to determine the distance between them.

Contouring is the process of determining the elevation of a point on a map using contour lines. It involves identifying the contour line that passes through the point and then reading the elevation value associated with that contour line.

Contouring can also be used to determine the slope of a terrain on a map. The closer the contour lines are together, the steeper the slope. The farther apart the contour lines are, the gentler the slope.

Contouring can also be used to determine the aspect of a terrain on a map. The aspect is the direction that a slope faces. It can be determined by observing the direction in which the contour lines are pointing.

Contouring can also be used to determine the profile of a terrain on a map. The profile is a cross-sectional view of the terrain along a given line. It can be constructed by drawing a line on the map and then plotting the elevation values along that line.