Topographic maps use contour lines to show the shape and elevation of the land. Typically, they also show natural features such as mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers, and humanly-made features such as roads, boundaries, railroad routes, and major buildings. Topographic maps are commonly used for information about terrain, as well as for geographic detail.
At Pitt, we have a collection of topographic maps published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for the entire United States. The most detailed USGS topographic maps are 7.5' (7 1/2 minute) maps. These have a scale of 1:24,000. For all states except Pennsylvania we kept only the most up-to-date maps. Most of these maps are listed in PittCat. Printing and distribution of USGS maps ceased in 2006 and all new USGS maps are published in electronic format. All print maps are now housed at the Thomas Blvd Library. Individual maps which are cataloged in PittCat may be requested for delivery to Hillman Library using Get It. Maps are also available for viewing at the ULS-Thomas Boulevard (add link) by arrangement. Please contact Boris Michev at bom17@pitt.edu for details and questions.
For current editions of paper topographic maps of Pittsburgh, please search in PittCat.
For digital versions of current topographic maps of Pittsburgh, visit the City of Pittsburgh's data and maps download page.
For digital versions of historical topographic maps of Pittsburgh, visit our Historic Pittsburgh Maps Collection, especially:
