US Geological Survey California North Topographic Map 1:500,000 Scale

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) California North Half topographic map, at a 1:500,000 scale, provides a broad overview of Northern California's diverse terrain. This map captures a vast region, showcasing the interplay of mountains, valleys, and urban centers. Essentially, this map allows you to see the big picture of the northern half of California. Within its boundaries, you'll find prominent cities like Sacramento, Redding, and Chico, alongside extensive natural features such as the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and portions of the Cascade Range. The map portrays the lay of the land, showing the winding courses of rivers like the Sacramento River, and the sprawling expanse of the Central Valley.

This map's scale offers a valuable perspective for various applications. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's excellent for planning extended camping or hiking trips, providing a sense of the overall geography and distances involved. While not detailed enough for precise navigation on narrow trails, it's perfect for strategic planning of routes and understanding the general terrain. For engineering projects, the map gives a regional context, displaying major transportation corridors, water features, and significant elevation changes. This is vital for infrastructure planning. Also, someone planning a road trip could use this map to get a good idea of the geography they will be traveling through.

The map's boundaries define a substantial portion of California. To give a general idea, the map encompasses the northern half of the state. Therefore, it's southern boundary is roughly the middle of the state. And the northern boundry is the California/Oregon state border. This large scale map allows for the user to understand the overall relationship between the many geographical features within Northern California. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer, a meticulous planner, or simply curious about California's geography, this USGS map provides a compelling and informative view of the Golden State's northern half.

Size: 42" x 46"
Format: Rolled