Maps

The goal of The National Map’s Historical Topographic Map Collection (HTMC) is to provide a digital repository of USGS 1:250,000 scale and larger maps printed between 1884, the inception of the topographic mapping program, and 2006.

View and customize maps. Explore and discover information about countries and territories around the world. Select layers to create a map specific to your need. Customize the colors and add text, photos, and videos.

The Elevation Point Query Service returns the elevation in international feet or meters for a specific latitude/longitude (NAD 1983) point from the USGS 3DEP 1/3 arc-second layer hosted at the NGTOC. If unable to find data at the requested point, this service returns -1000000. Input parameters: x (longitude), y (latitude), units (Feet, Meters), output (XML, JSON). Latitude and longitude must be specified in decimal degrees with southern latitudes and western longitudes represented as negative values. The 1/3 arc-second dataset covers nearly all the U.S. states and territories, though Alaska has only partial coverage.

TIGER (Topologically Integrated Geographic Encoding and Referencing database) allows users to select features and view their attributes, to search for features by name or geocode, and to identify features by selecting them from a map. The TIGERweb applications provide a simple way to view TIGER data without Geographic Information System (GIS) software and without downloading data.

TopoView allows you to search, view, and download topographic maps from both US Topo and the Historical Topographic Map Collection (HTMC). It offers free downloads in multiple formats, including JPEG, KMZ, GeoPDF, and GeoTIFF.

​The USGS Store Map Locator tool allows you to find and download GeoPDF maps and topographic quadrangles for free, or to purchase print copies.

The map clearly shows the regional terrain textures on which physiographic divisions of the United States were largely based on Fenneman and Johnson, 1946.

Need help reading a topographic map? This short document explains what they are and provides a list of symbols used to describe the variety of features included on these maps.

USGS programs produce accurate geologic maps and 3-D geologic frameworks that provide critical data for sustaining and improving the quality of life and economic vitality of the Nation. They also organize, maintain, and publish the geospatial baseline of the Nation’s topography, natural landscape, built environment and more.

Learn map scales, navigation with a topographic map, and how to measure distance on a map.

National Geospatial Program (NGP) standards and specifications define requirements to ensure that all maps and data prepared by NGP, in support of The National Map, are consistent in accuracy, structure, format, style, and content.