What is a GeoPDF®?
A GeoPDF is a georeferenced PDF file, meaning that it is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file with added information that relates the image to coordinates on a map. GeoPDF files can be used as plain PDF files but have the added capability of some limited mapping functions (turn any map layers on and off, obtain XY coordinates for a location, measure length, and more).
The USGS currently produces topographic maps using an Open Source GeoPDF format. However, most digital USGS topographic maps published before June 2017 are GeoPDF® files that were produced using software from Terrago Technologies. Those products are GeoMark enabled, so users can use the Terrago toolbar plugin to perform added functions.
Related Content
What does "georeferenced" mean?
What is GeoMark and do USGS topographic maps have it?
Can I import a US Topo map into my Geographic Information System (GIS)?
Why was the PDF file format selected for US Topo maps?
Can I get a bulk order of USGS topographic maps in PDF format for a state or the entire country?
Lesson 8a: US Topos Created after June 2017
In this lesson we will demonstrate how to open and manipulate data layers using Adobe Reader DC and Adobe Acrobat Pro. We will also learn how to use basic tools like panning, zooming and making measurements.