Hypsometric Maps

Hypsometric maps are a form of topographical maps that represent relief with the use of color. The USGS (United States Geological Survey) produced limited numbers of topographic maps with shaded relief. The map of Yosemite above features airbrushed relief shading produced in 1946. In 1013, the first hypsometric maps were produced using watercolors then pencil, chalk, charcoal and crayon. Once technology improved, they were able to create the maps using printing presses with several plates to each add a dimension to the map. Browns represent mid-tones and greens represent the valleys.