To read a hiking map, familiarise yourself with the map's legend, understand the scale (e.g., 1 cm = 500 m), and orient the map so north on the page aligns with north in the real world. Use contour lines to visualise terrain and elevation and identify physical landmarks to track your progress. [1, 2]

 

1. Orient the Map

Before you start walking, ensure your map is orientated correctly. The top of a hiking map is generally north. If you have a compass, place the baseplate flat on the map, line up the orienting lines with the grid lines, and rotate the whole map until the red magnetic needle points to "North" (or the "red is in the shed"). This ensures everything on the map points in the exact direction it does in reality. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

 

2. Understand the Legend and Symbols

Every map has a key or legend that explains exactly what the symbols mean. For example: [1, 2]

 

• Blue lines or shapes: rivers, lakes, and streams.
• Green: Woodlands, forests, and vegetation.
• Dotted/Dashed lines: Public rights of way, footpaths, or trails.
• Black symbols: Buildings, churches, or campsites. [1, 2, 3]

 

 

3. Read the Contour Lines

Topographic hiking maps use contour lines to depict the shape and elevation of the land. [1, 2]

 

• Spacing: Lines that are close together indicate a steep slope. Lines that are spaced far apart indicate flat or gently rolling terrain.
• Shape: Concentric closed circles represent hills or peaks. V-shaped contour lines pointing uphill usually indicate a river valley or ravine. [1]

 

 

4. Know the Map Scale

The scale tells you how the map distance relates to real-world distances. In the UK, standard Ordnance Survey (OS) Explorer maps (like the 1:25,000 scale) mean that 4 cm on the map equals 1 km on the ground. Use the numbered grids on your map (Eastings and Northings) to establish exact 6-figure grid references so you know exactly where you are. [1, 2, 3]

 

5. Match the Map to the Ground

As you hike, frequently check the terrain against the map. Look at the features around you (e.g., crossing a river, passing a specific road junction, or reaching a ridge) and identify their corresponding symbols on the paper. This allows you to confirm your location continuously rather than waiting until you are lost. [1, 2, 3]

6. OS maps

To get a really good understanding of maps, OS Maps has online skill-building games designed to help teach children and learners alike. Click on the link to start your journey. (see what i did there?)