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Maps of Canada

Federal Topographic Maps: Scale and Content

Federal Maps distributes maps of the National Topographic System, providing general-purpose topographic map coverage of Canada. These maps depict in detail ground relief (landforms and terrain), drainage (lakes and rivers), forest cover, administrative areas, populated areas, transportation routes and facilities (including roads and railways), and other man-made features.

The 1:50 000 scale topographic map is ideal for recreational activities such as cycling, canoeing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, camping and hiking. Accurately shown are hills, valleys, lakes, rivers, streams, rapids, portages, trails and wooded areas; major, secondary and side roads, and all man-made features such as buildings, power lines, dams and cut lines. A 1:50 000 scale map covers an area of approximately 40 kilometres east-west, 28 kilometres north-south. On a 1:50,000 scale map 1cm = 0.5km, or 1 inch = 0.8 miles. This is the most detailed scale available from the Canadian government.

The 1:250 000 scale topographic map is considered to be a reconnaissance-type map. This scale is popular not only as an overview of a large area, for example when planning a canoe route. It covers the same area of land as sixteen 1:50 000 scale maps, approximately 160 kilometres east-west, 112 kilometres north-south. A full 1:250 000 scale map shows an area approximately the size of Prince Edward Island. On a 1:250,000 scale map 1cm = 2.5km, or 1 inch = 4 miles.

Examples of a 1:50,000 scale map and a 1:250,000 scale map are available here.

Click here for the legend of all symbols which appear on Canadian topographic maps.

All topo maps sold by Federal Maps are available printed on either paper or waterproof material.

To identify the map number for the topo(s) you're looking for, please use our index.