Topographic Map Reading Worksheet PDF Form - FormsPal - Free Printable

Let’s solve this step by step.

We are given a topographic map with contour lines, points labeled A, B, X, Y, and some elevation numbers (like 3500, 3000, 2800). We’re also told that Snappell Creek runs through the area, and there’s a north arrow.

Since the worksheet says “Use the following topographic map to answer questions 1-8,” but no actual questions are listed in your message — I’ll assume you want me to explain how to read this map or perhaps answer common types of questions that would go with it (like: What is the elevation at point X? Which way does the creek flow? What’s the direction from A to B?).

But since no specific question was asked, let’s pick one typical question students get with maps like this:

Common Question Example: What is the elevation at point X?

Step-by-step:

1. Look at point X on the map.
2. Notice that point X is inside a closed loop (a circle-like shape) made by a contour line.
3. That contour line is labeled “3500”. In topographic maps, when a contour line forms a closed loop with no other lines inside, it usually means a hilltop or peak.
4. Since X is right on that 3500-foot contour line, its elevation is 3500 feet.
- If X were *inside* the loop but not on the line, we’d say it’s higher than 3500 — but here it’s clearly marked ON the line.

Another common question: What direction does Snappell Creek flow?

Step-by-step:

1. Find Snappell Creek — it’s labeled running vertically near the bottom center.
2. Water flows downhill — so look at the contour lines crossing the creek.
3. Contour lines form a “V” shape pointing upstream (uphill).
4. The V’s point toward higher elevations — so water flows opposite the point of the V.
5. Looking at the map, the Vs point generally upward (north), so the creek flows southward.
6. Also check the north arrow — yes, up is north → so creek flows south.

Another possible question: What is the direction from point A to point B?

Step-by-step:

1. Locate point A (lower left) and point B (center-right).
2. Draw an imaginary line from A to B.
3. Use the north arrow: up = north, down = south, right = east, left = west.
4. From A to B, you’re going mostly to the right and slightly up → that’s northeast.
5. So direction from A to B is northeast.

One more: What is the elevation at point Y?

Step-by-step:

1. Point Y is on a contour line labeled “3000”.
2. So elevation at Y is exactly 3000 feet.

And for point A?

1. Point A is on a contour line labeled “2800”.
2. So elevation at A is 2800 feet.

If you had a real question from the worksheet (like #1–#8), please send those — but based on what’s shown, these are the most likely answers they’re looking for.

Final Answer:
Elevation at X: 3500 ft; Elevation at Y: 3000 ft; Elevation at A: 2800 ft; Direction from A to B: Northeast; Snappell Creek flows South.