Are you getting ready for your elk hunt this fall? In this video, Trails breaks down 7 essential tips for using topographic (topo) maps to maximize your success in the field. Whether you’re e-scouting from your desktop or navigating ridgelines in the backcountry, these tips will help you read terrain like a seasoned hunter.

What You’ll Learn:
– How to read contour lines and understand terrain steepness
– Finding glassing points, ridge lines, and canyon bottoms
– Identifying benches and saddles — prime elk bedding and travel areas
– Evaluating slope direction (north vs. south/east facing) and its impact on vegetation and thermals
– How topo maps reveal water sources critical for elk and mule deer
– Using topo maps to plan efficient hiking routes

Too many hunters overlook these e-scouting fundamentals. Trails walks you through real-world examples so you can apply these insights directly to your unit.

#ElkHunting #Escouting #TopoMaps #HuntingTips #PublicLandHunting

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Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Topo Maps for E-Scouting
01:04 – What is a Topo Map? Understanding Contour Lines
02:28 – Reading Terrain: Steep vs. Gentle Slopes
03:01 – Finding Glassing Points and High Peaks
04:31 – Identifying Ridge Lines and Canyon Bottoms
06:17 – Locating Benches for Elk Bedding Areas
07:17 – Understanding Saddles and Animal Movement
08:41 – Analyzing Slope Direction and Aspect
10:30 – Seasonal Hunting: Using Slopes for Different Times
11:25 – Identifying Water Sources on Topo Maps
12:23 – Route Planning with Topographic Maps
13:20 – Conclusion and Final Tips