If you are planning a long hike or backpacking route, maps are a must. Of course, there’s typically plenty of trail map options to buy. However, you can also access topographic maps for just about any region from the USGS Map Downloader page.

Steps to Get Free Topographic Maps

Simply visit the USGS Map Downloader page.

Use the “mark points” option to place a point in a region you want a map.

Now, click that pointer to bring up map options for the region.

Select “Download” & when finished select “Download Cart.”