The link below is a USGS source for PDF (topo) maps. One can auger in on the page map or put in the name of a near by community in the search box (upper left) to get to the neighborhood. For me it would be Burns Oregon. Being PDF's, Adobe will open them, and one can also get GPS coordinates from them as well (Click Tools, Measure, Geospatial location tool).

Do read the instructions on the right side of the page. These are large files (like 30 megs) of excellent maps, and are absolutely free to download. They also carry a lot of older historic versions, but I typically download the most recent edition. Sometimes, trails etc maybe shown on older maps but not on the newer versions if for instance the USFS has abandoned them. I think there is absolutely full coverage for the US. With some mouse clicking one can make the map form disappear and there is a NAIP aerial photo beneath. Unless one has a large printer, he may need to go to Kinko's or find a friend to run off large hardcopies.

Google Earth photos are just a bit sharper, but the images accompanying these maps are very good as well. Good enough that when I was doing some pronghorn scouting I could actually see animals in some instances.

Once downloaded and opened, one can mark spots, do measurements, draw in routes etc,and resave the file. Good if one wants to exchange info with friends etc. I do a lot of desktop scouting with these.



PDF topo and imagery link

Last edited by 1minute; 09/06/16.

1Minute