How do I find, download, or order topographic maps?

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has been the primary civilian mapping agency of the United States since 1879. Some of the most well-known USGS maps are the 1:24,000-scale topographic maps, also called 7.5-minute quadrangles.

In 2009, the USGS transitioned from our hand scribed historical topographic maps to US Topos, which are computer-generated on a regular schedule using national databases.

Free and Immediate Downloads
Use any of these applications to download free digital topographic maps: 

• topoView -- The largest selection of digital options. All dates and all scales of topographic maps.
• The National Map Download Client -- All dates and all scales of topographic maps.
• Map Locator in the USGS Store – All dates and all scales of topographic maps prior to 2009, but only the most current version of the US Topo (after 2009).

Each application has an option for toggling on a map index showing an outline of all maps at a specific scale.

Free Custom Topographic Maps
Use the topoBuilder application to request OnDemand Topos, which resemble US Topos and utilize the best available data from The National Map at the time of request. The ability to center the map wherever you choose is an exclusive feature of OnDemand Topos. Other options include selecting which map layers to include. Maps are digitally delivered free of charge. Maps are usually delivered within 24 hours, but might take up to 5 business days.

Printed Maps
The online USGS Store is the only site for ordering paper topographic maps. Use the Store’s Map Locator, the “Find a Map” search function on the Store homepage, or the Keyword Search box at the top right of the Store homepage to find the map you need.

Learn More:

• More information on USGS Topographic Maps
• USGS Topographic Map Training Videos
• Video lesson for using the Map Locator on the USGS Store