by Dale Chappell

Created on: May 23, 2008   Last Updated: May 30, 2008

Last summer on our annual pilgrimage to the Appalachian Trail we set out to explore the southern sections of Pennsylvania. Although just day hikers, my brother and I, take our expedition planning very seriously, mostly because we have a whole long cold winter to do it. With months to plan and filled with eager anticipation, we often dog-ear the pages of our topos while looking deep into the maps for every tidbit of information that will bring our boots closer to the trail. In our case the "topo", or topographic map, used as a reference was the DeLorme Pennsylvania Atlas & Gazetteer - Topographic Maps of the Entire State. We also have accumulated a nice library of the Appalachian Trail, or AT, Trail Map Sets.

Topographic Maps are a valuable resource when planning a hiking excursion, as well as when treading the trail. As a tool to consult when planning a hiking trip, you can be comfortable that you are not taking the family along a cliff-hugging trail that teeters over the brink of dead man's chasm. Knowing your way around the two-dimensional representation of the 3D world also ensures that when your old high school buddy recruits you to help him get his trail legs back before his unit of Army Rangers is called to Afghanistan, that you don't end up on the paved trail of a botanical garden.

The most unique difference between a topographic map and a road map is the addition of contour lines to emulate the shape and elevation of the land. Topographic maps help us visualize the three-dimensional ups and downs of the terrain on the two-dimensional plane of the map. By understanding the key features of a good topographic map, we can extract the data associated with the actual terrain. Factoring-in elevation changes and natural features such as rivers or obstacles, the topo will then allow you to size-up the skill level required for the trek. Choosing between a strenuous 14 mile climb up the 2,800 feet elevation of Mount Greylock elevation during an AT Massachusetts hike to the gentle winding path of your local state park, you can decide the path your party will take.

Walking blind into a remote area is not recommended. While consulting your topographic map during the preplanning stage of your hiking trip you will identify parking locations, access points, scenic spots, and the other gems to make the trip invigorating and fun. This stage is also a critical time to determine the emergency contingencies that will be available to you in a time of crisis. Identify tall mountains

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