Map Symbols & Reading
Symbols are route decisions. Good symbol reading turns a confusing map into a sequence of runnable choices.
Terrain & Relief
- Contour lines: shape and steepness of slope
- Re-entrants/spurs: direction clues for micro-navigation
- Slope trend: uphill cost affects route pacing
Vegetation
- Open land: faster but often exposed
- Forest runnable: moderate speed with visual landmarks
- Dense green: lower speed and visibility, higher relocation risk
Hydrology
- Water bodies: often boundaries or attack references
- Marsh zones: reduced movement certainty
- Edges of wet areas: useful handrails
Man-made Features
- Paths and roads: high-confidence navigation lines
- Buildings/walls: strong positional anchors
- Crossings and corners: leg transition checkpoints
Course Symbols
- Start triangle (S)
- Control circles with code
- Finish circle (F) and final approach line