Let’s hear it for more LiDAR!
Want more high resolution elevation data coverage? You got it!
We just completed the latest high resolution elevation data import from the USGS 3D Elevation Program (3DEP), an ongoing project that aims to obtain nationwide LiDAR coverage plus IfSAR coverage in Alaska.
And to be honest, we can’t enough of the newly updated areas. While we regularly make updates to our elevation dataset as high resolution elevation data becomes increasingly available, it’s always mind blowing to see the difference in detail between the new high resolution elevation data and the original lower elevation data. One-meter resolution versus 10-30 meter resolution is no joke!
But don’t take our word for it- check it out for yourself. Each of the images below are split images of the same location with the high resolution elevation data on the left and the lower resolution elevation data on the right. Move the slider to compare these two elevation datasets and view the striking difference.
Above: Split image of the Grand Canyon with MapBuilder Topo and slope angle shading.
Above: Split image of Mt Garfield, WA with the shaded relief layer.
Above: Split image of Glacier Peak, MT with MapBuilder Topo.
In addition to the above areas, other notable areas that were part of the latest high resolution elevation data import include:
- Parts of Glacier National Park
- Remaining areas in Snoqualmie Pass that didn’t previously have coverage
- Sections of the Beartooths and Gallatin range in Montana
To see all the areas that currently have high resolution elevation data, check out this interactive coverage map.
Where can I see high resolution elevation data on CalTopo?
Where available, high resolution elevation data is incorporated into any CalTopo tool or layer that uses our elevation dataset. This includes layers such as MapBuilder Topo, MapBuilder Hybrid, shaded relief, slope angle shading, and custom DEM layers, as well as tools like elevation profiles.
Above: Split image of Snoqualmie Pass, WA with MapBuilder Topo and slope angle shading.
You can view high resolution elevation data on the web, mobile, and desktop app. If you have a mobile subscription or higher, you can download it for offline use, allowing you to bring the high resolution elevation data with you into the backcountry.
Please keep in mind that currently CalTopo does not automatically update offline downloads when we do a new elevation data update. If you notice discrepancies between the online elevation data and your offline downloads, make sure to delete your old downloaded tiles and re-download the latest ones. More information on managing your offline downloads can be found in the Mobile App- Offline Use or CalTopo Desktop- Download and Sync sections of our user guide.
Limitations of high resolution elevation data
While high resolution elevation data is incredibly useful for backcountry travel, it should still not be relied on as a definitive source of truth. As is true of any map (even paper maps!), it is a model of the terrain (albeit a pretty good one!) but not the terrain itself. For a more in depth discussion, check out our blog post Maps and Tracks: Accuracy, Precision, and your Phone GPS (Part 1).
Always carefully assess and evaluate any terrain that you are traveling in, and confirm your observations instead of relying solely on maps. Seek professional instruction on how to travel safely in the backcountry- our partners at the American Mountain Guide Association and American Avalanche Association have some great resources to get you started.
Got questions about our elevation data? Let us know in the comments below. Happy mapping!