Map Guides and Publications

Map Reading Guide: How to Use Topographic Maps

Download Reading Guide [PDF 1Mb]

The Map Reading Guide is an ideal manual for a wide range of map users, and is also an excellent and simplistic introduction to topographic maps, suitable for anyone with an interest in maps.

The Map Reading Guide contains a basic understanding on the following information:

• an explanation of what a topographic map is;
• who makes topographic maps in Australia and at which map scales;
• steps on how to read topographic maps, including explanations of map scale and how to use a map scale to calculate distance;
• the differences between grid north, true north and magnetic north;
• an explanation of symbols used on topographic map symbols;
• how hills and mountains are shown on maps using relief shading, hypsometric tinting, and contours;
• what a datum is and why there are different datums;
• explanations of the difference between geographic and grid coordinates;
• how to quote grid references from topographic maps;
• how to plan a successful trip using topographic maps;
• using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and magnetic compasses with topographic maps;
• using a topographic map to find your current position and to set a course.

Roamer

These nifty see-through map cards are great for reading bearings, distances and grid references on 1:100,000 and 1:250,000 scale maps. The roamer can be purchased as part of the Map Reading Guide.

Why do the numbers on the NATMAP roamer count from 10 to 1. Shouldn't they be read 1 to 10?
A roamer can be used for determining the last Easting and last Northing figures for a six-figure grid reference:
1. Place the top right hand corner intersection of the roamer lines over the point of interest.
2. Read the numbers from this point to the left to give the final Easting figure, and down to give the final Northing figure.
3. The number required is the last number read before the grid line on the map crosses the roamer.