Map Scale

What is SCALE?

Maps are made to scale. In each case, the scale represents the ratio of a distance on the map to the actual distance on the ground. For example, if 2 cm on a map ...

represents 1 km on the ground ...

the scale would be 2 cm = 1 km, or...

Reading Distances on a Map

Use the Scale Bar found at the bottom of every National Topographic Systen (NTS) map to determine distances between points or along lines on the map sheet. (Note, the example below is not to scale.)

Use the secondary division on the left of the Scale Bar for measuring fractions of a kilometre. The measurement indicated is about 7.5 kilometres or 7 500 metres.

Find out more about the National Topographic System, UTM Projection, and Symbols used on NTS maps.