Aerial View Maps

what is the difference about GPS maps, TOPO, areial, USGC?

I'm just confused about all these types, I would like to use my handheld for driving, hiking, boating. Its just confusing with overlaying this one and that..... Thanks, John

Public Comments

1. "GPS" maps can be all of those.... TOPO = Topographical, contoured maps, shows the lay of the land and features. Good for hiking in the woods. Areial maps are also called avaiation maps. These show pilots where towers and tall building are. USGC maps are waterways, shows the depth of the water, where obstructions are and places that boats should not go. A automobile based GPS receiver with a mapset are usually street maps, while a GPS receiver made for hunters and fishermen will have topo or USGC mapsets.