How is elevation typically indicated on a topographic map?

Elevation on a topographic map is primarily indicated by vertical contour lines. These lines connect points of equal elevation, allowing you to visualize the terrain's shape and slope. Each contour line represents a specific elevation level, and the spacing between these lines illustrates the steepness of the terrain: closely spaced lines indicate steep areas, while widely spaced lines suggest gentler slopes.

Other methods of indicating elevation, such as the use of colors for altitude or symbols representing height, may also be present on some maps, but they do not provide the detailed, precise information that contour lines offer. The position of landmarks can help orient a map reader but does not specifically represent elevation changes. Thus, the use of contour lines is the most accurate and widely recognized method for representing elevation on topographic maps.