Build a USGS topographic map with choice of format, area of interest, scale, and National Map content. The National Geospatial Program publishes a variety of geospatial data products and services via …

Topographic maps supply a general image of the earth's surface: roads, rivers, buildings, often the nature of the vegetation, the relief and the names of the various mapped objects."

Explore the National Map's 3D Viewer for interactive mapping, elevation profiles, and range ring centroids.

Topography is the study of the land surface. In particular, it lays the underlying foundation of a landscape. For example, topography refers to mountains, valleys, rivers, or craters on the surface. …

May 27, 2025 · Topographic maps show elevation and terrain in detail. Learn how to read them, explore their history, and discover how they're used today.

Topographic map, cartographic representation of the Earth’s surface at a level of detail or scale intermediate between that of a plan (small area) and a chorographic (large regional) map.

A topographic (or topo) map not only shows the surface features of a region but also indicates the contours and approximate altitude of every location, by means of numerous curving lines, each …

Topography is the study of forms and features of land surfaces. The topography of an area may refer to landforms and features themselves, or a description or depiction in maps.

Current and historic USGS topographic maps are available for immediate download from The National Map Downloader. Please note that not all features on historical maps appear on US Topos.

Topographic maps use contour lines to show elevation changes; closer lines indicate steeper slopes while wider spaced lines represent gentle slopes. These maps often include additional features like …