Which map would you use to find a hiking trail in a mountainous area?

Topographic maps are specifically designed to represent the three-dimensional features of the terrain in a two-dimensional format. They provide detailed information about elevation changes, landforms, and the layout of physical features such as mountains, hills, valleys, and trails. This makes them extremely useful for outdoor activities like hiking, as they show the contour lines that indicate slopes and the steepness of the terrain.

In contrast, city or state road maps primarily focus on transportation routes and may not provide detailed terrain information, making them less suitable for identifying hiking trails. Geographic maps tend to give a broader view of geographical features but lack the precise elevation and contour detail necessary for navigating mountainous areas. Satellite maps can show images of the terrain but do not provide the elevation data and trail specifics that a hiker would need for effective planning and navigation. Therefore, for finding hiking trails in mountainous regions, topographic maps are the most appropriate choice.