3. Aside from presenting to us the distances of a region and the relief data represented by the contours which are printed in brown the topographic map pictures the water (sea, lakes, rivers and streams) printed in blue and the cultural works of man printed in black. The features are all indicated by conventional signs, a key to which usually is printed on the back of the map.
In reading a map you first direct the upper edge to the north by the aid of the compass or, if the sun shines, by the aid of a watch. Next you locate the camp in relation to prominent landmarks, trails, roads, streams and contours. Then as you travel you note the configuration of the ground, the general direction, and the landmarks. If the general course of the trail is south and west and you are to detour north of it you will only have to run south to get back to your base line or camp. If your course varies to the east or north it will be necessary to make the same distance west or south to get back to your starting point.
After a little practice in map reading one becomes proficient and he will be able if in unsurveyed territory to make his own map. Get the compass directions from the camp of every prominent landmark with particular attention to streams and the ridges separating them. If one is out exploring it is a good idea to climb to the summit of some bare faced promontory and there study the topography of the country:--the location of the lakes, swamps, whither the streams run, the number and direction of the ridges, etc. The mental map thus made will be vastly useful later on.
In traveling over hilly or mountainous country follow the courses at the heights of land. It shortens the way for if the streams are followed one may have to cross many tributaries and make long detours.
For the average woods hiker a compass is a necessity in laying out the course of travel. Men whose business keeps them in the wilderness seldom carry the instruments but in them is developed to a high degree the bump of locality--that instinct that points the way--coupled with trained observation of land signs along the trail.
Consult the compass often, otherwise you may swing so far from your course in going only a short distance that you will be inclined to doubt its accuracy. In choosing a compass one need not go beyond the price of two dollars for a serviceable and accurate instrument. The size is not so important, a ¾ to 1½ inch dial is large enough for sportsmen. The needle or pointer should have an agate bearing or jewel firmly set in the brass cap and to be accurately balanced on the fine tempered or pointed pivot. It is very important to have the box water-proofed else the needle will stick.