Step 4: Count the Number of Contour Lines to Point

After you have followed the index contour line around to near your point, count the number of contour lines between the index contour line and your point. If the point is located on a contour line, its elevation is that of the contour line.

Step 3: Locate the Nearest Index Contour Line

Locate the nearest index contour line located closest to your point. Care must be taken when following the index contour line around ridges and valleys.

Step 2: Determine the Contour Interval

Be sure to check the contour interval for the map that you are using. The contour interval can be found from the marginal information normally on the bottom of the map. If the contour interval is in meters, then your elevation must be in meters. If your contour interval is in feet, then your elevation must be in feet.

Step 1: Locate the Point on the Map

Locate the point on the map that you wish to determine the elevation for. This point may be a known terrain feature such as a hilltop, road intersection, or man-made structure.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4