Skip to Main Content
“Brandeis

Maps, Atlases & Gazetteers

Topographic Maps

Topographic maps use elevation contour lines to visualize the shape of the Earth's surface. Contour lines are drawn to connect areas of the same elevation that are above or below a reference surface, such as mean sea level (USGS, n.d.).

Understanding Topographic Maps

Global Topographic Maps

U.S. Topographic Maps

Related Guides

Additional resources for topography, elevation, and LiDAR are listed in our GIS Data guide.