Topographic Maps

• Topographic maps use lines and symbols to represent the three-dimensional relief of an area. They denote elevation by the use of marked contour lines. These contour lines also show the shape and locations of mountains, valleys, forests, streams and other features.
  
  

Perpendicular Lines

• Hachure marks are always drawn to be perpendicular to the contour lines. They are not marked to indicate elevation.
  
  

Steep Slopes

• Hachure marks used to show a steep slope are done in short, heavy strokes and are placed close together.
  
  

Gentle Slopes

• To show a gentle slope, Hachure marks are placed far apart and done in long, lightly drawn strokes.
  
  

Closed Depressions

• Craters and sinkholes are examples of closed depressions. They are shown by using roughly circular contour lines that have Hachure marks inside that run perpendicular to the downhill side of the depression.