GI Hunt and Camp Gear Info

Map Color Representation!

To a large extent, map reading skill is based on an ability to look at a Topographical Map and be able to visualize what is being represented on the ground. Key to this capability is to know and understand the basic map colors and what each color represents:

• Black – Cultural (man-made) features such as buildings, secondary roads, spot elevations, and all labels.
• Blue - Water features such as lakes, rivers/streams, swamps, and drainage.
• Green- Vegetation such as woods, orchards, and vineyards.
• Brown - Elevation and relief features such as contour lines and possibly cultivated land.
• Red - Primary/main roads and possibly cultural boundaries.
• Other – As deemed appropriate and explained in the map’s marginal information.

These basic colors are not only exclusively used in Topographical Maps but also applicable to most other travel maps. A thorough understanding of map colors and their respective representations will enhance and compliment your map reading capability/skills.