Use a few simple tools to readily determine distances on a map.
Add two points to a map and determine the distance between them, so you know how long you going to travel. Knowing the distance of your route traveling by car helps in planning for stopping to rest, buying gas and getting a bite to eat. On the other hand, knowing determine distances while hiking could mean the difference between a hot shower and meal and getting stuck in the wilderness at night. All maps include a scale that relates distances on the map to distances in real life.
Instructions
1. Locate the name of the closest town to your current position in the alphabetized index on the back of the map. Use the coordinates given for the town to find it on the map. Typically, the coordinates consist of a letter and a number. The letters will be along one edge of the map while the numbers are along an adjacent side. Place a mark on your current location on the map.
2. Locate the name of the town you need to reach by the end of today's travels. Place a mark on that ending location on the map.
3. Place a string along the scale of the map. Make sure the string is straight and parallel to the scale. Mark the string with a black marker at each division given on the scale. For example, the distance between divisions on the scale might be 1/2 mile.
4. Position one end of the string at your current location on the map. Lay the string out on the map along the path you which to take to your destination. Be sure to bend the string to match the path or road. Do not just place the string in a straight line.
5. Count the number of division marks on the string between your current location and your destination. For example, there might be 18.5 divisions.
6. Multiply the number of divisions between the points on the map by the distance each division represents on the map scale to get the distance to your destination. Completing the exercise leads to 18.5 times 0.5 miles, or 9.25 miles.
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