Codes
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EXT | [0-999] | Freeway/highway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at center of road/freeway jct. |
EX | [exit #?] | Freeway/highway exit from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXTE | [0-99] | Freeway/highway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at start of eastbound exit |
EXE | [exit #?] | Freeway/highway exit from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXTN | [0-99] | Freeway/highway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at start of northbound exit |
EXN | [exit #?] | Freeway/highway exit from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXTS | [0-99] | Freeway/highway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at start of southbound exit |
EXS | [exit #?] | Freeway/highway exit from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXTW | [0-99] | Freeway/highway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at start of westbound exit |
EXW | [exit #?] | Freeway/highway exit from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
J | [altitude] | Junction of trails from map | Trail names in comment field if possible |
JC | [0-9999] | Junction of trails GPS field mark | See "XJ" and "Road junction". |
JN | [0-9999] | Junction of trails from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
JR | [altitude] | Junction of trail and road from map | A trail may be single or double track. |
JCR | [0-999] | Junction of trail and road GPS field mark | A trail is NOT open to 4WD vehicles but might be open to ATV’s. |
JNR | [0-999] | Junction of trail and road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
OJC | [0-999] | Junction of an old trail GPS mark. See "XJ". | Old trail no longer used. Might look like XC routes. |
OJN | [0-999] | Junction of an old trail from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
OJR | [0-999] | Junction of an old road GPS field mark | Old road no longer used off of trail or road. |
OJNR | [0-99] | Junction of an old road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
ONR | [altitude] | Freeway on ramp/road jcn. from map | Junction of road and freeway on ramp. |
ONRP | [0-99] | Freeway on ramp/road jcn. GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field where on ramp leaves road |
ONRM | [0-99] | Freeway on ramp/road jcn. from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RJ | [altitude] | Road junction of roads from map | Includes roads for which high clearance, etc. is needed |
RJC | [0-999] | Road junction of roads GPS field mark | These are double tracks or paved. May need 4WD. |
RJN | [0-999] | Road junction of roads from map or GPS avg. | May be closed to the public (i.e. Park maintenance) |
RRC | [0-999] | Railroad crossing GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field where road or trail crosses. |
RR | [0-9999] | Railroad crossing from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SC | [0-9999] | Shortcut that "shouldn't exist" GPS field mark. | Waypoint marked in field |
SCT | [0-999] | Shortcut that "shouldn't exist" GPS avg. | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
SPR | [0-999] | Short spur junction GPS mark. See "SPG". | Short spur to a viewpoint, short side trail, driveway, etc. |
SPU | [0-999] | Short spur junction from map or GPS avg. | Careful not to confuse with spring: "SPG" |
XJ | [altitude] | Cross-country trail junction estimate from map | Take off point from trail/road or multiple XC routes |
XJC | [0-999] | Cross-country trail junction GPS field mark | Not a "real" trail. Maybe game trail or obvious route used often. |
XJN | [0-999] | Cross-country trail junction estimate from map | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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CAN | [0-999] | Canal GPS field mark | Use for a flume, aqueduct, ditch – ruins or functioning. |
CNL | [0-999] | Canal from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
F | [NameA] | Falls generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
F | [altitude] | Falls or cascade from map | Name in comment/message field |
FA | [0-9999] | Falls or cascade GPS field mark | Marked at top, bottom, or side |
FL | [0-9999] | Falls or cascade from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
I | [name] | Intermittent stream from map or very small | Where trail or road crosses. See XIS for XC route. |
I | [altitude] | Intermittent stream from map or very small | Name in comment/message field. |
IS | [0-9999] | Intermittent stream GPS mark. See "Gully". | Dry streambed, seasonal flow, or very small stream. |
IST | [0-999] | Intermittent stream from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
K | [NameA] | Lake or reservoir generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
[Name]L | Name of Lake or reservoir from map | Lake or reservoir | |
L | [name] | Lake or reservoir from map | |
L | [altitude] | Lake or reservoir from map | Prefer mark at outlet as multiple inlets more likely. |
LK | [0-9999] | Lake or reservoir GPS mark. See "Lake edge". | At outlet stream or at largest inlet or closest to trail. |
LAK | [0-999] | Lake or reservoir from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LE | [altitude] | Lake edge from map | Other side of big lake from outlet near trail. |
LEG | [0-999] | Lake edge GPS field mark | Lake edge closest to trail when outlet not near trail. |
LED | [0-999] | Lake edge from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
PO | [altitude] | Pond from map | Too small to be called a lake. A beaver pond. |
POD | [0-999] | Pond GPS field mark | May be dry in late summer. See "Tarn". |
PON | [0-999] | Pond from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RP | [name] | Rapids from map | |
RP | [altitude] | Rapids from map | Name and class in comment (it's not Road Point) |
RAP | [0-999] | Rapids GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field possibly at start of rapids. |
RPD | [0-999] | Rapids from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
U | [NameA] | Rapids generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
S | [name] | Stream or river from map | Where the trail or road crosses. See "Bridge". |
S | [altitude] | Stream or river from map | Name in comment. Can be small enough to step across. |
ST | [0-9999] | Stream or river GPS field mark | Use "I", "IS" for very small streams. |
STR | [0-999] | Stream or river from map or GPS marks average | Use "XST" if the trail doesn’t cross the stream. |
N | [NameA] | Spring generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
SG | [altitude] | Spring from map | Waypoint marked from map |
SPG | [0-999] | Spring GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field. "SPR" is for Spur. |
SPN | [0-999] | Spring from map or GPS marks average | This might be a mud hole so don’t assume water is available. |
SJ | [altitude] | Stream junction with stream from map | Names in comment |
SJC | [0-999] | Stream junction with stream GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
SJN | [0-999] | Stream jct. with stream from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SWP | [0-999] | Swamp or muddy area GPS field mark | A muddy or damp area or marsh or swamp. |
SWMP | [0-99] | Swamp or muddy area from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked in field wherever it’s convenient. |
TA | [altitude] | Tarn from map | Name in comment/message field |
TAR | [0-999] | Tarn GPS field mark | Small mountain lake - fills a cirque / formed by glacier. |
TAN | [0-999] | Tarn from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
XI | [altitude] | Intermittent stream from map - no trail intersection | Dry streambed, seasonal flow, or very small stream. |
XIS | [0-999] | Intermittent stream GPS mark. See "Gully". | See "IS" if trail or road crosses stream. |
XIST | [0-99] | IS from map or GPS avg. - no trail intersection | X-C route may cross. |
XS | [altitude] | Stream point from map - no trail intersection | See "Stream" if trail or road crosses stream. |
XST | [0-999] | Stream point GPS mark - no trail intersection | Trail doesn’t cross the stream. X-C route may cross. |
XSM | [0-999] | Stream point processed - no trail intersection | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
W | [NameA] | Stream end generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name. ‘W’ for "water" |
Z | [NameA] | Stream beginning generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
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DS | [0-9999] | Double/Single track transition GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
DBS | [0-999] | Dbl/Single track transition from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
FLG | [0-999] | Flag or paint mark GPS field mark | Ribbon or paint on a tree, etc. usually to mark route/trail |
FLA |
[0-999] | Flag or paint mark GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
GA | [altitude] | Gate across trail or road from map | Waypoint marked from map |
GAT | [0-999] | Gate across trail or road GPS field mark | May or may not be passable. Open or closed. |
GTE | [0-999] | Gate across trail or road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LG | [0-9999] | Log across the trail GPS field mark | Fallen tree blocking trail to some degree |
LOG | [0-999] | Log across the trail GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
ORP | [0-999] | Old road point GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
ORPT | [0-99] | Old road point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
OTP | [0-999] | Old trail point GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
OTPT | [0-99] | Old trail point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
PST | [0-999] | Post GPS field mark | Post in pile of rocks or in ground for trail/route marker |
POS | [0-999] | Post GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
R | [name] | Road point from map | General purpose point along a road |
R | [altitude] | Road point from map | Name in comment/message field |
RD | [0-9999] | Road point GPS field mark | (RP is for rapids) |
ROD | [0-999] | Road point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RE | [altitude] | Road end from map | Where road ends |
RED | [0-999] | Road end GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
REN | [0-999] | Road end from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RKC | [0-999] | Rock cairn GPS field mark | Pile of rocks to mark route or trail |
RKCN | [0-99] | Rock cairn GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
SB | [altitude] | Switchback from map | Waypoint marked from map - trail or road |
SBK | [0-999] | Switchback GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at angle (elbow) |
SWB | [0-999] | Switchback from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
T | [altitude] | Trail point from map | General purpose point along a trail. See "PTI". |
TP | [0-9999] | Trail point GPS field mark | What it marks in comment/message. See "Misc". |
TPT | [0-999] | Trail point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TE | [altitude] | Trail end from map | Waypoint marked from map |
TED | [0-999] | Trail end GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
TEN | [0-999] | Trail end from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TH | [altitude] | Trailhead from map | Name in comment/message field. |
THD | [0-999] | Trailhead GPS field mark. See "Parking". | Marked at sign, gate, or place to help find start of trail. |
TLH | [0-999] | Trailhead from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
X | [altitude] | Cross-country route point estimate from map | See "Gully", "Ridge", and "Shelf". |
XC | [0-9999] | Cross-country route point GPS field mark | At some distinct feature such as a ridge, rock pile etc. |
XP | [0-9999] | Cross-country route point from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
XE | [altitude] | Cross-country route end point from map | See "XJ" and "XS". |
XED | [0-999] | Cross-country route end GPS field mark | End of a cross-country route for whatever reason |
XEN | [0-999] | Cross-country route end from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
Y | [NameA] | Name of a trail generated from GNIS database | Appears somewhere along the trail. |
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HP | [altitude] | High point from map | Waypoint marked from map. |
HPT | [0-999] | High point GPS field mark | Local "hill" of some significance or high point on trail. |
HPN | [0-999] | High point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
[Name]M | Name of Mountain from map | ||
M | [name] | Mount or Mountain from map See "Peak". | Name and altitude in comment |
M | [altitude] | Mount or Mountain from map | Name and maybe altitude in comment |
MT | [0-9999] | Mount or Mountain GPS mark | Contour lines make a "loop" that’s not a hole. |
MTN | [0-999] | Mount or Mountain from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
[Name]P | Name of Peak from map. See "Mountain". | Name and altitude in comment | |
P | [name] | Peak from map | Name and altitude in comment |
P | [altitude] | Peak from map | Name and maybe altitude in comment |
PK | [0-9999] | Peak GPS field mark. See "High point". | |
PEK | [0-999] | Peak from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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BE | [altitude] | Beach from map | Sandy area on a river, ocean, bay, lake etc. |
BCH | [0-999] | Beach GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field wherever convenient |
BEA | [0-999] | Beach from map or GPS marks average | Not to be confused with bench, "BEN" |
CLF | [0-999] | Cliff GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
CIF | [0-999] | Cliff from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CO | [altitude] | Col or notch from map | Name of high mtn. pass in comment. See "Pass". |
COL | [0-999] | Col or notch GPS field mark | Probably no real trail over this kind of pass |
CLO | [0-999] | Col or notch from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CV | [altitude] | Cave entrance from map | Waypoint marked from map |
CAV | [0-999] | Cave entrance GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
CVE | [0-999] | Cave entrance from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
GU | [altitude] | Gully from map | Opposite of Ridge; contour lines make a "V" pointing uphill |
GUL | [0-999] | Gully GPS field mark | Trail crossing gully with no stream. See "IS". |
GLY | [0-999] | Gully from map or GPS marks average | See "X" (cross-country route point) and "Shelf". |
IL | [altitude] | Island from map | Waypoint marked from map. See "IS" (int. stream). |
ILD | [0-999] | Island GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
ILN | [0-999] | Island from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LP | [altitude] | Low point from map | See "High point" and "Gully". |
LPT | [0-999] | Low point GPS field mark | Low point on trail or "hole" not full of water. |
LPN | [0-999] | Low point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
G | [NameA] | Gap – Pass generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
PA | [altitude] | Pass from map | Name of pass in comment. See "COL". |
PAS | [0-999] | Pass GPS field mark | Land surface forms a "saddle" |
PSS | [0-999] | Pass from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
Q | [NameA] | Ridge generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
RI | [altitude] | Ridge from map | Opposite of Gully; contour lines make "V" pointing downhill |
RIG | [0-999] | Ridge GPS field mark | See "X" (cross-country route point) and "Shelf". |
RID | [0-999] | Ridge from map or GPS marks average | Trail crossing ridge line |
SL | [altitude] | Shelf location from map | Wide contours for a traverse. Guide for cross-country travel. |
SHLF | [0-99] | Shelf location GPS field mark | Ledge on steep hillside. See Shaft – because of similar names. |
SLF | [0-999] | Shelf location from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
V | [NameA] | Valley beginning generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
E | [NameA] | Valley end generated from GNIS database | USGS - Geographic Names Information System |
V | [altitude] | Valley from map | |
VA | [0-9999] | Valley GPS field mark | Somewhere on trail going through a valley |
VAL | [0-999] | Valley from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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[Name] | Name of Mountain, lake, falls, etc. | Altitude in comment if possible | |
B | [altitude] | Boundary from map of Forest, County, Park, etc. | A boundary crossing a road, trail, or stream, etc. |
BD | [0-9999] | Boundary GPS field mark of fence, etc | Altitude in comment. See Boundary for wilderness. |
BDY | [0-999] | Boundary from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BW | [0-9999] | Boundary for wilderness area GPS field mark | See "Boundary". Use "B" if from map. |
BDW | [0-999] | Boundary for wilderness from map or GPS avg.. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
DG | [altitude] | Danger area from map | Waypoint marked from map |
DGR | [0-999] | Danger area GPS field mark | Underwater hazard, Avalanche chute, etc. |
DNG | [0-999] | Danger area from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
GPT | GC code | Geocache point GPS field mark | Proposed location or where found - not web site value |
GPN | GC code | Geocache point GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
MC | [altitude] | Miscellaneous from map | What it is in comment |
MS | [0-9999] | Miscellaneous GPS field mark | Used if trail point or point of interest doesn’t apply. |
MSC | [0-999] | Miscellaneous from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
NT | [0-9999] | Note for location GPS field mark | For connecting a location to a note |
NOT | [0-999] | Note for location from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
PI | [altitude] | Point of interest from map | Place that you want to mark for some reason from map. |
PTI | [0-999] | Point of interest GPS field mark | Place that you want to mark for some reason in field. |
PIN | [0-999] | Point of interest from map or GPS marks average | General purpose point that’s not TP, VPT, MS, etc. |
VP | [altitude] | View point from map | Waypoint marked from map |
VPT | [0-999] | View point GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
VWP | [0-999] | View point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
ZG | Number | Location picture taken GPS field mark | Number of picture or id after code |
ZP | Number | Location picture taken GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
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CG | [altitude] | Campground "entrance" from map | Name in comment/message field |
CPG | [0-999] | Campground "entrance" GPS field mark | Mark at information board, fee station, etc. |
CGD | [0-999] | Campground "entrance" from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CP | [altitude] | Campsite estimate from map | Estimated location for a camp. |
CMP | [0-999] | Campsite GPS field mark | Location of a camp. Possible altitude in comment. |
CPS | [0-999] | Campsite from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
GCP | [0-999] | Group campsite or campground GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at info. board, fee station, etc. |
GC | [0-9999] | Group camp from map or GPS marks average | Campsite or campground for groups. |
LUN | [0-999] | Lunch spot GPS field mark | Place where someone had lunch, good spot for lunch. |
LNH | [0-999] | Lunch spot from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
PG | [altitude] | Parking area from map | Place somewhere in parking area away from trailhead. |
PKG | [0-999] | Parking area GPS field mark. See "Trailhead". | Not to close to trailhead location if possible. |
PRK | [0-999] | Parking area from map or GPS marks average | Use for truck parking along Interstate, etc. |
PC | [altitude] | Picnic area from map | Waypoint marked from map |
PIC | [0-999] | Picnic area GPS field mark. See "Table". | Mark at information board or some table. |
PNC | [0-999] | Picnic area from map or GPS marks average | Name in comment/message field |
RC | [altitude] | Recreation area from map | Recreation area general location or entrance |
REC | [0-999] | Recreation area GPS field mark. | Mark at info. board, some table, fee station, etc. |
RCN | [0-999] | Recreation area from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RST | [0-999] | Roadside rest area GPS field mark | Exit number in comment. See "Parking" and "Turnout". |
RT | [0-9999] | Roadside rest area from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TO | [0-9999] | Turnout area of road for possible parking GPS mark | Probably small area - limited parking if legal to park |
TOT | [0-999] | Turnout area of road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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ADT | [0-999] | Mining "tunnel" GPS field mark | An adit has "one" opening, doesn’t go through mtn. |
ADIT | [0-99] | Mining "tunnel" from map or GPS marks average | Altitude in comment. See "Tunnel". |
MN | [altitude] | Mining site, prospect, or quarry from map | Name in comment/message field |
MIN | [0-999] | Mining site, prospect, or quarry GPS field mark | Mine, Prospect, or Quarry, etc. See "Adit" and "Shaft". |
MNE | [0-999] | Mining site from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SA | [altitude] | Shaft: mining "hole" from map | Could be a very dangerous area. |
SAF | [0-999] | Shaft: mining "hole" GPS field mark | See "Shelf" – because of similar names. |
SAT | [0-999] | Shaft: mining "hole" from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
"-" | [NameA] | Tunnel generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude. |
TN | [altitude] | Tunnel from map | A tunnel has 2 openings - goes through ridge. |
TUN | [0-999] | Tunnel GPS field mark | See "Adit". |
TNL | [0-999] | Tunnel from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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AL | [altitude] | Altitude mark on map that’s not a BM | Exact altitude in comment. |
ALT | [0-999] | If location of AL seems to be marked – GPS mark | See "High point", "Peak", "Trail point", "Ridge". |
ATD | [0-999] | Altitude mark from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BA | [altitude] | Boat access, launch, ramp from map | Waypoint marked from map |
BT | [0-9999] | Boat access, launch, ramp GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field on ramp at water line |
BOT | [0-999] | Boat access, launch, ramp from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BEN | [0-999] | Bench location GPS field mark | A bench to sit on. Might be made of rocks. See "Table". |
BNH | [0-999] | Bench location from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BL | [altitude] | Building(s) from map | Probably not old buildings. See "Cabin". |
BLG | [0-999] | Building(s) GPS field mark | Entrance kiosk, train station, restroom, etc. |
BLD | [0-999] | Building(s) from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BM | [altitude] | Benchmark from map | Exact altitude in comment. See "Altitude". |
BMK | [0-999] | Benchmark GPS field mark | Altitude in comment |
BNM | [0-999] | Benchmark from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BR | [NameA] | Bridge generated from GNIS database | |
BR | [altitude] | Bridge from map | Usually something more substantial than a few logs |
BRG | [0-999] | Bridge GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at center of bridge |
BRD | [0-999] | Bridge from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BUS | [0-999] | Bus stop (stage, shuttle, etc.) GPS field mark | Transportation pickup point, not building. See "BLD". |
BST | [0-999] | Bus stop from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CBN | [0-999] | Cabin GPS field mark | May only be a few logs left – foundation. |
CAB | [0-999] | Cabin from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CEM | [0-999] | Cemetery or grave GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field. |
CMT | [0-999] | Cemetery or grave from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CRL | [0-999] | Corral GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field nearest trail or at gate. |
CRR | [0-999] | Corral from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
DK | [altitude] | Dock or Pier from map | Waypoint marked from map |
DCK | [0-999] | Dock or Pier GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field on dock at beginning or end |
DOK | [0-999] | Dock or Pier from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
D | [NameA] | Dam generated from GNIS database | |
DM | [altitude] | Dam from map | Waypoint marked from map |
DAM | [0-999] | Dam GPS field mark | At spillway or center or where convenient |
DMA | [0-999] | Dam from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RUIN | [0-99] | Ruin GPS field mark | See "Cabin". |
RUN | [0-999] | Ruin from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SGN | [0-999] | Sign GPS field mark | Entrance sign, post with numbers (on nature trail), etc. |
SIG | [0-999] | Sign from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TBL | [0-999] | Table GPS field mark | See "Bench" and "Picnic". |
TAB | [0-999] | Table from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
General Categories
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EXT, EX,
EXTE, EXE, EXTN, EXN, EXTS, EXS, EXTW, EXW |
Freeway or highway exits
Northbound direction (may be general road direction not short term road direction), or East, South, and West. In the US odd number roads may be N/S and even numbers E/W. |
If no travel direction it is marked
in the center of the "junction". Ramps are marked either where the turn
off lane begins or, if really long exit lane, then about where it branches
off.
If the exit number is known put it in the comment field and if possible also put it in the name code. Don't assume code is exit #. |
J, JC, JN | A junction of a trail and one or more other trails. | A trail may be single or double track. A double track might be an old road that is no longer open to cars, pickups, etc. Cars may use it on rare occasions. Note that it can be difficult to decide whether "trail" or "road" is appropriate. |
JR, JCR, JNR | A junction of at least one trail and at least one road. | A trail is not usually open to 4WD vehicles but might be open to ATV’s (three or four wheel), dirt bikes and/or mountain bikes. |
OJC, OJN | A junction of an old trail with a road or a trail. | Looks like an old trail that is no longer used. |
OJR, OJNR | A junction of an old road with a road or a trail. | Looks like an old road that is no longer used. It can be difficult to decide whether "old trail" or "old road" is appropriate. |
ONR, ONRP, ONRM | A junction of a freeway on ramp and road. | The ramp to a controlled access highway where it joins the local road. Also used for exits on other types of highways/roads. |
RJ, RJC, RJN | A junction of a road and one or more other roads. | These are double tracks or paved roads. Roads may be so rough that they are impassable by cars (i.e. 4WD,
etc. is needed).
A road may be closed to public vehicles such as a park or water district maintenance road. |
RRC, RR | Railroad crossing a road or trail. | |
SC, SCT |
Shortcut of a switchback, etc. |
Unofficial path that may be erosion prone and/or bypassing a curve in the real trail. |
SPR, SPU | Short spur junction of a road or trail. | Short spur to a viewpoint, short
side trail, driveway, campsite etc. Sometimes used for a trail junction that's a
short distance from the trailhead/parking lot.
Careful not to confuse with spring: "SPG" and "SPN" |
XJ, XJC, XJN | Cross-country route junction from a road, trail, or another cross-country route. There may be a visible tread but don't expect one. | Take off point from a trail, road, or XC route. This is used not only for real XC routes where there is no visible path but also "game" paths, "minor" trails, social trails (not usually marked in high use areas), and obvious routes used often. |
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HP, HPT, HPN | High points other than peaks and
mountains.
See also "low point", "pass", and "ridge". |
Hill or local "bump" of some significance; contour lines make a "loop" (that’s not a hole). Also the high point of the trail or road in the immediate area but not necessarily the highest ground. |
M, MT, MTN, P, PK, PEK | A mountain or peak.
See "High point". |
Name and altitude in comment if possible. A more significant "high point". |
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CAN, CNL | Canal or similar and may be very old and not functional. | Use for a flume, aqueduct, or ditch. It could be functional or in ruins. |
F, FA, FL | Falls or cascade. See "Rapids". | Marked at the top, bottom, or middle of a waterfall or cascade. |
I, IS, IST | Intermittent stream, creek, or
dry streambed or small stream that may not be intermittent. If an adult can step across then use this.
See "Gully". |
Could be a very small stream that runs all year. Could be a large stream that only runs when there is a heavy rain (flash flood). May or may not be dry some of the time. A dry streambed. Marked where a trail or road crosses. Was used on a cross-country routes in older files - now see XIS. |
L, LK, LAK, K | Lake or reservoir.
See "Lake edge", "Pond", and "Tarn". |
Usually marked at the outlet stream (since there is usually just one) or outlet closest to the trail. May also be marked at the largest inlet or at the inlet closest to the trail for convenience. |
LE, LEG, LED | Lake edge | Marked at a lake edge closest to trail, edge first arrived at, fishing spot, etc. Or marked at the side of a big lake for reference. |
PO, POD, PON | Pond
See "Tarn" and "Lake". |
Too small to be called a lake. It might be dry in late summer or drought year. A beaver pond for instance, which will change. |
RP, RAP, RPD, U | Rapids
See "Falls" (Cascade). |
Be careful not to confuse this one with "Road point" (RD, ROD).
Name in comment/message field |
S, ST, STR, W, Z | Stream, creek, or river
If an adult has to step on rocks or logs to get across then this code might be used. See "Bridge" and "Intermittent stream". |
Where a trail or road crosses
the waterway. Use "IS" for very small streams. Use "XST" if a trail doesn’t
cross the stream.
The GNIS database marks the "beginning" and "end" locations. Note that the "end" location is likely to be a stream junction and the beginning may not be well defined. |
SG, SPG, SPN, N | Spring or hot spring. | Be careful not to confuse this
one with "Spur" (SPR, SPU).
This might be a mud hole so don’t assume water is available. |
SJ, SJC, SJN | Stream junction with another stream | Names in comment if possible |
SWP, SWMP | Swamp, marsh, or muddy area. | A muddy or damp area or marsh or swamp. It might be dry some time during the year. Mark near trail or wherever it’s convenient |
TA, TAR, TAN | Tarn. See "Lake" and "Pond". | Small mountain lake - fills a cirque / formed by glacier. Probably above timberline. |
XI, XIS, XIST | Intermittent stream point – no trail intersection
Intermittent creek, or dry streambed or small stream that may not be intermittent. |
Trail doesn’t cross the intermittent stream.
Cross-country route may cross.
See "IS" if trail or road crosses intermittent stream. |
XS, XST, XSM | Stream point – no trail intersection | Trail doesn’t cross the stream.
Cross-country route may cross.
See "Stream" if trail or road crosses stream. |
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B, BD, BDY,
or BW, BDW |
Boundary of Forest, County, Park,
etc. and
Boundary for wilderness area |
A boundary often crossing a road or trail. This could be a fence or sign or could have no visible indication. May be marked anywhere, not just at an intersection with road, trail, etc. |
DG, DGR, DNG | Danger area
See "Miscellaneous" and "Shaft". |
Underwater hazard, avalanche chute,
etc.
"Miscellaneous" was used before this to mark avalanche chutes. |
GPT, GPN | Geocache point - where a geocache was found or to be put | Not a value from a Geocaching web site but value at the time found or a place where one is intended to be placed. |
MC, MS, MSC | Miscellaneous See "Trail point" and "Point of interest". |
What it is in comment if possible. Might be rock formation, or volleyball court (recreation type areas), or a wet area along trail that "swamp" doesn't seem to apply to, etc. |
NT, NOT | A note about the location
See "Miscellaneous" |
Some comments about a particular location or area. Probably longer note than will fit in "Miscellaneous" |
PI, PTI, PIN | Point of interest
See "Miscellaneous", "Building", "View point". |
Place that you want to mark for some interesting reason. A rock formation that has a name, visitor center, etc. Try to use "misc." for recreation type areas, such as children's play areas, tennis courts. |
VP, VPT, VWP | View point | Place of some kind of view. May not be easy to get to! |
ZG, ZP | Picture location | Spot where a picture was taken and some way to identify picture. |
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CG, CPG, CGD | Campground "entrance" | Mark at information board or fee post if possible. |
CP, CMP, CPS | Campsite in backcountry or within campground | Estimated location for a camp (backpacking/canoeing, etc.) or a site commonly used. Marked at the campfire ring if one exists. |
GCP, GC | Group campsite or campground | Group area (backcountry) or group campground. Geocachers use "GC" for geocache. |
LUN, LNH | Lunch spot | Place where someone had lunch or a good spot for lunch. |
PG, PKG, PRK | Parking area
See "Trailhead". Use for truck parking along Interstate, etc. |
Marked in middle, at sign, at beginning, or at a corner/edge.
If trailhead starts at one edge "parking" would probably be marked at other end to help show size of parking area. |
PC, PIC, PNC | Picnic area. See "Table". | Mark at information board or table closest to parking if possible. |
RC, REC, RCN | Recreation area at a river, lake, etc. | Mark at information board, table closest to parking, entrance, fee station, etc. |
RST, RT | Roadside rest area.
See "Parking" and "Turnout". |
Usually marked in parking area closest to main building or bulletin board, etc. If known, exit number in comment. |
TO, TOT | Turnout area of road for possible parking | Probably small area - limited parking - check if legal to park. |
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DS, DBS | Double track to single track transition | Transition of path from a "road" to a "trail" - not distinct? |
FLG, FLA | Flag (ribbon) or paint mark | Ribbon or paint on a tree, etc. usually to mark route/trail |
GA, GAT, GTE | Gate | Might be open or closed. May or may not be passable. Might be closed at certain times - seasonal closure. |
LG, LOG | Log across trail | Fallen tree blocking trail to some degree. |
ORP, ORPT, OTP, OTPT |
Old road point or Old trail point | Point on an old road or old trail like "Road pt." Or "Trail point" except that the road or trail is in decay - returning to nature. |
PST, POS | Post | Post marking route stuck in ground or supported by rocks. |
R, RD, ROD | Road point (RP is for rapids) | General purpose point along a road. See "Trail point". |
RE, RED, REN | Road end | End of a road. |
RKC, RKCN | Rock cairn also known as a trail duck | Pile of rocks to mark route usually near or above timberline. |
SB, SBK, SWB | Switchback | Switchbacks on a trail or road but usually a trail - "R" on road. |
T, TP, TPT, Y | Trail point
See "Miscellaneous" and "Point of interest". |
General purpose point along a trail. If possible put what it marks in comment/message. Use if "Gully" or "Ridge" isn’t quite right. |
TE, TED, TEN | Trail end | May be beginning of cross-country route. End of distinct tread. |
TH, THD, TLH | Trailhead
"See Parking area". |
Mark at gate, register, sign, or a place so a user can find the start of the trail from the parking area. |
X, XC, XP | Cross-country route point estimate
See "Gully", "Ridge", and "Shelf". |
At some distinct feature such
as a ridge, rock pile etc.
This is used not only for real cross-country routes where there is no visible path but also "game" paths, obvious routes used often, unofficial (social) trails, and "minor" trails. |
XE, XED, XEN | Cross-country route end point or beginning | See "XJ", "XS", and "XC". |
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ADT, ADIT | Mining "tunnel". See "Tunnel" and "Mine". | An adit has "one" opening, doesn’t go through mountain. |
MN, MIN, MNE | Mining site, prospect, or quarry.
See "Adit" and "Shaft". |
Mine, prospect, or quarry, etc.
Could be filled in/collapsed adit. Many are barely holes in the ground. |
SA, SAF, SAT | Shaft: mining "hole". | Beware of edges. Not to be confused with "Shelf". |
"-", TN, TUN, TNL | Tunnel generated from GNIS database
See "Adit". |
A tunnel has 2 openings - goes through ridge or mountain.
Marks may be at entrances or approximate center. |
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BE, BCH, BEA | Beach | General location of a beach on a river, ocean, lake, stream, etc. Marked wherever convenient. |
CLF, CIF | Top or bottom of a cliff. | Preferably top - better satellite view, warning before falling off. |
CO, COL, CLO, G, PA, PAS, PSS | Pass, gap, or col in mountain range or ridge, etc.
See "Ridge". |
The surface of the land forms a "saddle".
A col is a notch in a high mountain ridge. A gap is a general term from the GNIS. |
CV, CAV, CVE | Cave entrance or any other useful location. | |
GU, GUL, GLY | Gully
(usually at a trail) See "IS" and "X" (cross-country route point). |
Opposite of Ridge; contour lines make a "V" pointing uphill
Trail crossing gully with no stream. May not be much of a "depression". |
IL, ILD, ILN | Island | See "IS" (int. stream) to avoid confusing codes.
Marked in approximate center or wherever convenient. |
LP, LPT, LPN | Low point. See "High point" and "Gully". | Low point on a trail or a "hole" that’s not full of water. |
Q, RI, RIG, RID | Ridge
(usually at a trail) See "X" (cross-country route point) and "Shelf" |
Opposite of Gully; contour lines make "V" pointing downhill.
Trail crossing ridgeline. If both "sides" turn up enough, it may be a pass. |
SL, SHLF, SLF | Shelf or ledge location
See "Shaft" to avoid confusing codes. |
Wide contours on topographic map for a traverse. Guide for cross-country travel. Possibly more (wider) than a "shelf". |
E, V, VA, VAL | The beginning, end or some convenient location in a valley. Also known as "park" (Colorado) | Somewhere on trail going through a valley
The GNIS database marks the "beginning" and "end" locations. |
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AL, ALT, ATD | Altitude mark on topo map.
See "High point", "Peak", "Trail point", "Ridge". |
This is not a benchmark. Exact altitude in comment |
BA, BT, BOT | Boat access, launch, ramp, etc. | Marked on/at ramp possibly at water line wherever that was at the time but not below end of concrete ramp. |
BEN, BNH | Bench location. See "Table". | A bench to sit on. Might be made of rocks or a cut stump. |
BL, BLG, BLD | Building(s)
See "Cabin", "Point of interest", "Misc." |
Entrance kiosk, train station, visitor center (usually PTI), restroom, etc. |
BM, BMK, BNM | Benchmark | Exact altitude in comment. See "Altitude". |
BR, BRG, BRD | Bridge | Marked in center if possible. Usually something more substantial than a few logs. Probably cut lumber and a constructed foundation (but foundation might be rock and/or wood). |
BUS, BST | Bus stop or stage, shuttle stop, etc.
See "Building". |
Place that's not a building to catch transportation. A train station or bus station would probably be marked as a building. |
CBN, CAB | Cabin, log cabin, group of cabins, none left
See "Building". |
There may only be a few logs left, just a foundation or flat area.
Marked in about the middle of multiple cabins. |
CEM, CMT | Cemetery or grave | |
CRL, CRR | Corral | At fence point (corner) nearest the trail or at gate. |
DK, DCK, DOK |
Dock or Pier |
Marked at beginning or end. May or may not be good for tying up a boat. I.E. Fishing/viewing pier, "Pier 39" in San Francisco |
D, DM, DAM, DMA | Dam | Marked at spillway or at the center if possible. |
RUIN, RUN | Ruin | Some sort of ruins. See "Cabin". |
SGN, SIG | Sign | Entrance sign, post with numbers on a nature trail, etc. |
TBL, TAB | Table. See "Bench" and "Picnic". |
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FAC | [0-999] | Fire road access (into park for instance) GPS mark | Road not generally intended for public use. |
FAS | [0-999] | Fire road access from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
GRUP | [0-99] | Campsite for groups GPS field mark | Group campsite. Changing to GC. |
GROP | [0-99] | Campsite for groups from map or GPS avg. | Changing to GCP. |
CBNS | [0-99] | Multiple cabins GPS field mark | Use CBN for one or more. Same with BLG. |
CABS | [0-99] | Multiple cabins from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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[Name] | Name of Mountain, lake, falls, etc. | Altitude in comment if possible | |
[Name]L | Name of Lake or reservoir from map | Lake or reservoir | |
[Name]M | Name of Mountain from map | See Peak. Contour lines make a "loop" that’s not a hole. | |
[Name]P | Name of Peak from map. See "Mountain". | Name and altitude in comment | |
"-" | [NameA] | Tunnel generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude. |
ADIT | [0-99] | Mining "tunnel" from map or GPS marks average | Altitude in comment. See "Tunnel". |
ADT | [0-999] | Mining "tunnel" GPS field mark | An adit has "one" opening, doesn’t go through mtn. |
AL | [altitude] | Altitude mark on map that’s not a BM | Exact altitude in comment. |
ALT | [0-999] | If location of AL seems to be marked – GPS mark | See "High point", "Peak", "Trail point", "Ridge". |
ATD | [0-999] | Altitude mark from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
B | [altitude] | Boundary from map of Forest, County, Park, etc. | A boundary usually crossing a road, trail, or stream, etc. |
BA | [altitude] | Boat access, launch, ramp from map | Waypoint marked from map |
BCH | [0-999] | Beach location GPS field mark | Sandy area on a river, ocean, bay, lake etc. |
BD | [0-9999] | Boundary GPS field mark of fence, etc | Altitude in comment. See Boundary for wilderness. |
BDW | [0-999] | Bdy. for wilderness from map or GPS marks avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BDY | [0-999] | Boundary from map or GPS marks average | Boundary but not a wilderness boundary |
BE | [altitude] | Beach location from map | Altitude in comment and name |
BEA | [0-999] | Beach location from map or GPS marks average | Sandy area on a river, ocean, bay, lake etc. |
BEN | [0-999] | Bench location GPS field mark | A bench to sit on. Might be made of rocks. See "Table". |
BL | [altitude] | Building(s) from map | Probably not old buildings. See "Cabin". |
BLD | [0-999] | Building(s) from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BLG | [0-999] | Building(s) GPS field mark | Entrance kiosk, train station, visitor center, restroom, etc. |
BM | [altitude] | Benchmark from map | Exact altitude in comment. See "Altitude". |
BMK | [0-999] | Benchmark GPS field mark | Altitude in comment |
BNH | [0-999] | Bench location from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BNM | [0-999] | Benchmark from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BOT | [0-999] | Boat access, launch, ramp from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BR | [NameA] | Bridge generated from GNIS database | USGS - Geographic Names Information System |
BR | [altitude] | Bridge from map | |
BRD | [0-999] | Bridge from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BRG | [0-999] | Bridge GPS field mark | |
BST | [0-999] | Bus stop from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
BT | [0-9999] | Boat access, launch, ramp GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field on ramp at water line |
BUS | [0-999] | Bus stop (stage, shuttle, etc.) GPS field mark | Transportation pickup point, not building. See "BLG". |
BW | [0-9999] | Boundary for wilderness area GPS field mark | See "Boundary". Use "B" from map. |
CAB | [0-999] | Cabin from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CAN | [0-999] | Canal GPS field mark | Use for a flume, aqueduct, ditch – ruins or functioning. |
CAV | [0-999] | Cave entrance GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
CBN | [0-999] | Cabin GPS field mark | May only be a few logs left – foundation. |
CEM | [0-999] | Cemetery or grave GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field. |
CG | [altitude] | Campground "entrance" from map | Name in comment/message field |
CGD | [0-999] | Campground "entrance" from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CIF | [0-999] | Cliff from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CLF | [0-999] | Cliff GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
CLO | [0-999] | Col from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CMP | [0-999] | Campsite GPS field mark | Location of a camp. Possible altitude in comment. |
CMT | [0-999] | Cemetery or grave from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CNL | [0-999] | Canal from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CO | [altitude] | Col from map | Name of high mtn. pass in comment. See "Pass". |
COL | [0-999] | Col GPS field mark | Probably no real trail over this kind of pass |
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CP | [altitude] | Campsite estimate from map | Estimated location for a camp. |
CPG | [0-999] | Campground "entrance" GPS field mark | Mark at information board or fee station. |
CPS | [0-999] | Campsite from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CRL | [0-999] | Corral GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field nearest trail or at gate. |
CRR | [0-999] | Corral from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
CV | [altitude] | Cave entrance from map | Waypoint marked from map |
CVE | [0-999] | Cave entrance from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
D | [NameA] | Dam generated from GNIS database | USGS - Geographic Names Information System |
DAM | [0-999] | Dam GPS field mark | At spillway or center or where convenient |
DBS | [0-999] | Dbl/Single track transition from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
DCK |
[0-999] |
Dock or Pier GPS field mark |
Waypoint marked in field on dock at beginning or end |
DG | [altitude] | Danger area from map | Waypoint marked from map |
DGR | [0-999] | Danger area GPS field mark | Underwater hazard, Avalanche chute, etc. |
DK |
[altitude] | Dock or Pier from map |
Waypoint marked from map |
DM | [altitude] | Dam from map | Waypoint marked from map |
DMA | [0-999] | Dam from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
DNG | [0-999] | Danger area from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
DOK |
[0-999] | Dock or Pier from map or GPS marks average |
Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
DS | [0-9999] | Double/Single track transition GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
E | [NameA] | Valley end generated from GNIS database | USGS - Geographic Names Information System |
EX | [exit #?] | Freeway exit from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXE | [exit #?] | Eastbound freeway exit GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXN | [exit #?] | Northbound freeway exit GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXS | [exit #?] | Southbound freeway exit GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
EXT | [0-999] | Freeway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at road/freeway jcn. |
EXTE | [0-999] | Eastbound freeway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at eastbound exit |
EXTN | [0-999] | Northbound freeway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at northbound exit |
EXTS | [0-999] | Southbound freeway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at southbound exit |
EXTW | [0-999] | Westbound freeway exit GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field at westbound exit |
EXW | [exit #?] | Westbound freeway exit GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
F | [NameA] | Falls generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
F | [altitude] | Falls or cascade from map | Name in comment/message field |
FA | [0-9999] | Falls or cascade GPS field mark | Marked at top, bottom, or side. |
FL | [0-9999] | Falls or cascade from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
FLA | [0-999] | Flag or paint mark GPS marks average | Flag, etc. usually marking route/trail, processed marks |
FLG | [0-999] | Flag or paint mark GPS field mark | Ribbon or paint on a tree, etc. usually to mark route/trail |
G | [NameA] | Gap – Pass generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
GA | [altitude] | Gate across trail or road from map | Waypoint marked from map |
GAT | [0-999] | Gate across trail or road GPS field mark | May or may not be passable. Open or closed. |
GC | [0-9999] | Group camp from map or GPS marks average | Campsite or campground for groups. |
GCP | [0-999] | Group campsite or campground GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field. |
GLY | [0-999] | Gully from map or GPS marks average | See "X" (cross-country route point) and "Shelf". |
GPN | GC code | Location of a geocache GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
GPT | GC code | Location of a geocache GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field. |
GTE | [0-999] | Gate across trail or road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
GU | [altitude] | Gully from map | Opposite of Ridge; contour lines make a "V" pointing uphill |
GUL | [0-999] | Gully GPS field mark | Trail crossing gully with no stream. See "IS". |
HP | [altitude] | High point from map | Waypoint marked from map. |
HPN | [0-999] | High point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
HPT | [0-999] | High point GPS field mark | Local "hill" of some significance or high point on trail. |
I | [name] | Intermittent stream from map | Usually where trail or road crosses. May be XC route. |
I | [altitude] | Intermittent stream from map | Name in comment/message field. |
IL | [altitude] | Island from map | Waypoint marked from map. See "IS" (int. stream). |
ILD | [0-999] | Island GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
ILN | [0-999] | Island from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
IS | [0-9999] | Intermittent stream GPS mark. See "Gully". | Dry streambed, seasonal flow, or very small stream. |
IST | [0-999] | Intermittent strm. from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
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J | [altitude] | Junction of trails from map | Names in comment |
JC | [0-9999] | Junction of trails GPS field mark | See "XJ" and "Road junction". |
JCR | [0-999] | Junction of trail and road GPS field mark | A trail is NOT open to 4WD vehicles but might be open to ATV’s. |
JN | [0-9999] | Junction of trails from map or GPS marks average | |
JNR | [0-999] | Junction of trail and road from map or GPS avg. | |
JR | [altitude] | Junction of trail and road from map | A trail may be single or double track. |
K | [NameA] | Lake or reservoir generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
L | [name] | Lake or reservoir from map | |
L | [altitude] | Lake or reservoir from map | Prefer mark at outlet as multiple inlets more likely. |
LAK | [0-999] | Lake or reservoir from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LE | [altitude] | Lake edge from map | Other side of big lake from outlet near trail. |
LED | [0-999] | Lake edge from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LEG | [0-999] | Lake edge GPS field mark | Lake edge closest to trail when outlet not near trail. |
LG | [0-9999] | Log across trail GPS field mark | Tree down blocking trail to some extent |
LK | [0-9999] | Lake or reservoir GPS mark. See "Lake Edge". | At outlet stream or at largest inlet or closest to trail. |
LNH | [0-999] | Lunch spot from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LOG | [0-999] | Log across trail GPS marks average | |
LP | [altitude] | Low point from map | See "High point" and "Gully". |
LPN | [0-999] | Low point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
LPT | [0-999] | Low point GPS field mark | Low point on trail or "hole" not full of water. |
LUN | [0-999] | Lunch spot GPS field mark | Place where someone had lunch, good spot for lunch. |
M | [name] | Mount or Mountain from map | Name and altitude in comment |
M | [altitude] | Mount or Mountain from map | Name and maybe altitude in comment |
MC | [altitude] | Miscellaneous from map | What it is in comment |
MIN | [0-999] | Mining site, prospect, or quarry GPS field mark | Mine, Prospect, or Quarry, etc. See "Adit" and "Shaft". |
MN | [altitude] | Mining site, prospect, or quarry from map | Name in comment/message field |
MNE | [0-999] | Mining site from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
MS | [0-9999] | Miscellaneous GPS field mark | Used if trail point or point of interest doesn’t apply. |
MSC | [0-999] | Miscellaneous from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
MT | [0-9999] | Mount or Mountain GPS mark. See "Peak". | Contour lines make a "loop" that’s not a hole. |
MTN | [0-999] | Mount or Mountain from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
N | [NameA] | Spring generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
NOT | [0-999] | Note for location GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
NT | [0-9999] | Note for location GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field to associate with a text note |
OJC | [0-999] | Junction of an old trail GPS mark. See "XJ". | Trail no longer used. Might look like XC routes. |
OJN | [0-999] | Junction of an old trail from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
OJNR | [0-99] | Junction of an old road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
OJR | [0-999] | Junction of an old road GPS field mark | Old road no longer used. |
ONR | [altitude] | On ramp to freeway (motorway) from map | Probably need seven-character name to get four digits. |
ONRM | [0-99] | On ramp to freeway from map or GPS marks avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
ONRP | [0-99] | On ramp to freeway (motorway), GPS field mark | Marked where on ramp connects to local road. |
ORP | [0-999] | Old road point GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
ORPT | [0-99] | Old road point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
OTP | [0-999] | Old trail point GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
OTPT | [0-99] | Old trail point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
P | [name] | Peak from map | Name and altitude in comment |
P | [altitude] | Peak from map | Name and maybe altitude in comment |
PA | [altitude] | Pass from map | Name of pass in comment. See "COL". |
PAS | [0-999] | Pass GPS field mark | Land surface forms a "saddle" |
PC | [altitude] | Picnic area from map | Waypoint marked from map |
PEK | [0-999] | Peak from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
PG | [altitude] | Parking area from map | Place somewhere in parking area away from trailhead. |
PI | [altitude] | Point of interest from map | Place that you want to mark for some reason from map. |
PIC | [0-999] | Picnic area GPS mark. See "Table". | Mark at information board or table closest to parking. |
PIN | [0-999] | Point of interest from map or GPS avg. | General purpose point that’s not TP, VPT, BLG, etc. |
PK | [0-9999] | Peak GPS mark. See "High point". | |
PKG | [0-999] | Parking area GPS mark. See "Trailhead". | Not to close to trailhead location if possible. |
PNC | [0-999] | Picnic area from map or GPS marks average | Name in comment/message field |
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PO | [altitude] | Pond from map | Too small to be called a lake. A beaver pond. |
POD | [0-999] | Pond GPS field mark | May be dry in late summer. See "Tarn". |
PON | [0-999] | Pond from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
POS | [0-999] | Post location GPS marks average | |
PRK | [0-999] | Parking area from map or GPS marks average | Use for truck parking along Interstate, etc. |
PSS | [0-999] | Pass from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
PST | [0-999] | Post location GPS field mark | Post in pile of rocks or in ground for route marker. |
PTI | [0-999] | Point of interest GPS field mark | Place that you want to mark for some reason in field. |
Q | [NameA] | Ridge generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
R | [name] | Road point from map | General purpose point along a road |
R | [altitude] | Road point from map | Name in comment/message field |
RAP | [0-999] | Rapids GPS field mark | |
RC | [altitude] | Recreation area from map | Recreation area marked at entrance, fee station, etc. |
RCN | [0-999] | Recreation area from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RD | [0-9999] | Road point GPS field mark | (RP is for rapids) |
RE | [altitude] | Road end from map | |
REC | [0-999] | Recreation area GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
RED | [0-999] | Road end GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
REN | [0-999] | Road end from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RI | [altitude] | Ridge from map | Opposite of Gully; contour lines make "V" pointing downhill |
RID | [0-999] | Ridge from map or GPS marks average | Trail crossing ridge line |
RIG | [0-999] | Ridge GPS field mark | See "X" (cross-country route point) and "Shelf". |
RJ | [altitude] | Road junction of roads from map | Includes roads for which high clearance, etc. is needed |
RJC | [0-999] | Road junction of roads GPS field mark | These are double tracks or paved. May need 4WD. |
RJN | [0-999] | Road junction of roads from map or GPS avg. | May be closed to the public (i.e. Park maintenance) |
RKC | [0-999] | Rock cairn GPS field mark | Pile or stack of rocks as trail/route marker |
RKCN | [0-99] | Rock cairn GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
ROD | [0-999] | Road point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RP | [name] | Rapids from map | |
RP | [altitude] | Rapids from map | Name in comment (don’t confuse with Road Point) |
RPD | [0-999] | Rapids from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RR | [0-9999] | Railroad crossing from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
RRC | [0-999] | Railroad crossing GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field |
RST | [0-999] | Roadside rest area GPS field mark | See "Parking" and "Turnout". |
RT | [0-9999] | Roadside rest area from map or GPS avg. | If exit number known put in comment - maybe identifier |
RUIN | [0-99] | Ruin GPS field mark | See "Cabin". |
RUN | [0-999] | Ruin from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
S | [name] | Stream or river from map | Where the trail or road crosses. See "Bridge". |
S | [altitude] | Stream or river from map | Name in comment. Can be small enough to step across. |
SA | [altitude] | Shaft: mining "hole" from map | |
SAF | [0-999] | Shaft: mining "hole" GPS field mark | See "Shelf" – because of similar names. |
SAT | [0-999] | Shaft: mining "hole" from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SB | [altitude] | Switchback from map | |
SBK | [0-999] | Switchback GPS field mark | |
SC |
[0-9999] |
Shortcut that "shouldn't exist" GPS field mark |
Waypoint marked in field |
SCT |
[0-999] |
Shortcut that "shouldn't exist" GPS avg. |
Waypoint from processed GPS points |
SG | [altitude] | Spring from map | Waypoint marked from map |
SGN | [0-999] | Sign GPS field mark | Entrance sign, post with numbers (on nature trail), etc. |
SHLF | [0-99] | Shelf location GPS field mark | Ledge on steep hillside. See Shaft – because of similar names. |
SIG | [0-999] | Sign from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SJ | [altitude] | Stream junction with stream from map | Names in comment |
SJC | [0-999] | Stream junction with stream GPS field mark | |
SJN | [0-999] | Stream junction with stream from map, GPS marks | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SL | [altitude] | Shelf location from map | Wide contours for a traverse. Guide for cross-country travel. |
SLF | [0-999] | Shelf location from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SPG | [0-999] | Spring GPS field mark | Waypoint marked in field. "SPR" is for Spur. |
SPN | [0-999] | Spring from map or GPS marks average | This might be a mud hole so don’t assume water is available. |
SPR | [0-999] | Short spur junction GPS mark. See "SPG". | Short spur to a viewpoint, short side trail, etc. |
SPU | [0-999] | Short spur junction from map or GPS avg. | Careful not to confuse with spring: "SPG" |
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ST | [0-9999] | Stream or river GPS field mark | Use "I", "IS" for very small streams. |
STR | [0-999] | Stream or river from map or GPS avg. | Use "XST" if the trail doesn’t cross the stream. |
SWB | [0-999] | Switchback from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
SWMP | [0-99] | Swamp from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked in field wherever it’s convenient. |
SWP | [0-999] | Swamp GPS field mark | A muddy or damp area or marsh or swamp. |
T | [altitude] | Trail point from map | General purpose point along a trail. See "PTI". |
TA | [altitude] | Tarn from map | Name in comment/message field |
TAB | [0-999] | Table from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TAN | [0-999] | Tarn from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TAR | [0-999] | Tarn GPS field mark | Small mountain lake - fills a cirque / formed by glacier. |
TBL | [0-999] | Table GPS field mark | See "Bench" and "Picnic". |
TE | [altitude] | Trail end from map | |
TED | [0-999] | Trail end GPS field mark | |
TEN | [0-999] | Trail end from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TH | [altitude] | Trailhead from map | Name in comment/message field. |
THD | [0-999] | Trailhead GPS mark. See "Parking". | Marked at sign, gate, or place to help find start of trail. |
TLH | [0-999] | Trailhead from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TN | [altitude] | Tunnel from map | A tunnel has 2 openings - goes through ridge. |
TNL | [0-999] | Tunnel from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TO | [0-9999] | Turnout area of road for possible parking GPS mark | Probably small area - limited parking. |
TOT | [0-999] | Turnout area of road from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TP | [0-9999] | Trail point GPS field mark | What it marks in comment/message. See "Misc". |
TPT | [0-999] | Trail point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
TUN | [0-999] | Tunnel GPS field mark | See "Adit". |
U | [NameA] | Rapids generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
V | [NameA] | Valley beginning generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
V | [altitude] | Valley from map | |
VA | [0-9999] | Valley GPS field mark | Somewhere on trail going through a valley |
VAL | [0-999] | Valley from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
VP | [altitude] | View point from map | |
VPT | [0-999] | View point GPS field mark | |
VWP | [0-999] | View point from map or GPS marks average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
W | [NameA] | Stream end generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name. ‘W’ for "water" |
X | [altitude] | Cross-country route point estimate from map | See "Gully", "Ridge", and "Shelf". |
XC | [0-9999] | Cross-country route point GPS field mark | At some distinct feature such as a ridge, rock pile etc. |
XE | [altitude] | Cross-country route end point from map | See "XJ" and "XS". |
XED | [0-999] | Cross-country route end point GPS field mark | End of a X-C route for some reason |
XEN | [0-999] | X-C route end point from map or averaged | |
XI | [altitude] | Intermittent stream on cross country route from map | Intermittent stream on X-C route from map |
XIS | [0-999] | Intermittent stream (no trail) GPS field mark | Intermittent stream and no trail intersection |
XIST | [0-99] | Intermittent stream (no trail) from map or average | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
XJ | [altitude] | Cross-country trail junction estimate from map | Take off point from trail/road or multiple XC routes |
XJC | [0-999] | Cross-country trail junction GPS field mark | Not a "real" trail. Maybe game trail or obvious route used often. |
XJN | [0-999] | Cross-country trail junction estimate from map | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
XP | [0-9999] | Cross-country route point from map or GPS avg. | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
XS | [altitude] | Stream point from map on X-C route | See "Stream" if trail or road crosses stream. |
XSM | [0-999] | Stream point from map - no trail intersection | Waypoint marked from map or processed GPS points |
XST | [0-999] | Stream point GPS mark - no trail intersection | Trail doesn’t cross the stream. X-C route may cross. |
Y | [NameA] | Name of a trail generated from GNIS database | Appears somewhere along the trail. |
Z | [NameA] | Stream beginning generated from GNIS database | "NameA" = usually name, some may have altitude |
ZG | Number | Picture location GPS field mark | Place where picture was taken and number of picture |
ZP | Number | Picture location GPS marks average | Waypoint from processed GPS points |
General Comments
This document describes how we try to name waypoints. Some of the following comments are guidelines we use and may
not be followed strictly. The comments are intended to explain, to mention possibilities, or things to keep in mind.
This format was developed for GPS receivers that have a six-character limit for the waypoint name. Of course it works with
those receivers that support eight, ten, and longer waypoint names. Currently we plan to leave it at six characters since it
helps conserve limited GPSR screen space; however, we might add a seventh digit on occasion when more identifiers are
needed. We're developing this convention so that we can write computer programs to help manage and process waypoints.
It's also intended to give some information about locations displayed on the GPSR screen. A program can also separate
points marked from a map and downloaded into the GPS receiver for route finding from those points marked in the field.
The different letter codes for the same type of location serve to distinguish those points marked by map from those marked in
the field.
The Name Code and Identifier
The first two columns form the waypoint name. The first column (Code) is used to establish the type of the location and the
second column (Identifier) to provide a unique name (number). The unique name might be a sequential count, an altitude, or
an abbreviation of the name of the location. The shortest codes are used for altitude identifiers so that most of the altitude
will fit in the waypoint name. Codes for GPS field marks are kept to no more than three letters (there are a few exceptions
such as "RUIN") for the common locations so that at least three different entries can be made in the GPS unit in one
"session". For example we might use the following combinations for one location in one field session: XJC21, XJC-21,
XJC021.
In general an altitude follows one letter. An
altitude or a sequential count may follow two letters; a sequential
count follows three or more letters with a few exceptions (i.e. ONR).
Note that "NameA" may have letters that match any of the above
combinations but may not have any digits (a statement of possibility
not a rule). Some place names do have numbers in their names that may
end up as part of [Name]. For instance "Agnes Number Seven Mine" could
become "AGNS7M".
An altitude follows two letters when the single letter is a different type. Note that near the ocean high sequential numbers
are less likely to be mistaken for an altitude and, away from the ocean, numbers less than 200 are not likely to be altitudes.
For example a number less than 1000 is not an altitude in the Colorado Rockies or the Sierra Nevada. Of course places like
Hawaii have a wide range of altitudes in a small distance. The letter combination is intended to guarantee that altitudes
are not confused with sequence numbers.
If only 4 digits are available for altitude and 5
are needed, drop the ones digit. So 1130 equals 11,300 to 11,309 feet.
Try to put the exact altitude in the comment - possibly after the name
of the feature. If keeping the waypoint name at a length of six isn't
important, then another possibility is adding an extra digit for a
seven character name.
If altitude of one type equals an altitude of another location of the same type within a geographic region select the next
closest altitude. Try to keep benchmarks exact and change the altitudes that are estimates by a foot or two up or down. Or
change an estimated altitude by maybe 5 or 10 feet so the number doesn't look like it is an exact USGS published value.
How and Why the Codes Were Chosen
We've ended many of the codes for GPS field marks with a "G" for a memory aid (when there's a "G" somewhere in the
type name of course). Also many codes for processed marks end with an "N" or have it somewhere in the code. For instance
the "C" in the junction type GPS field marks was replaced with "N" for the processed codes. Some "PT's" for "point" in
GPS field marks changed to "PN" for processed codes. These conventions were thought of later in development so there are
exceptions ("LUN" and "TUN" are GPS field marks).
"J", "JC", "JN" are trail and trail junctions. Add
an "R" at the end for trail and road junctions. Add an "R" at the
beginning for road and road junctions. Add an "O" in front for old
trail and old road junctions but followed by a "J" and then "R" if it's
a road. This format is primarily for outdoor activities in natural settings so the focus is on trails not roads.
Waypoint names usually have to be unique, especially in GPS receivers. So when we are out in the field and want multiple
marks for a given location, we keep the numbers the same for the same location by adding one or two minus signs or zeroes
in front of the number such as "JC2", "JC02", "JC002", "JC-2", "JC--2". The plus sign is also used with the newer receivers
from Garmin. A space is not used since it is often used as a separation character. Then a computer program can calculate the
average location for the waypoints marking the same location. A waypoint code is assumed to mark the same location when
the letter code is the same and the numerical value following it is the same.
Understanding the Types
A road that is closed to the public and that is not
regularly (normally) used by park personnel is usually marked as a
"trail" (double track trail). A road that may be used by the public
(i.e. to access group picnic site) or that looks like it is used often
by park personnel (park service road) is usually marked as a road. We
try to decide a type based on what seems to be the primary use.
However, a utility road that is used mostly as a trail but is otherwise
a very good, well-defined road may bemarked as a road.
Some other codes that may be mixed up because of subjectivity:
GUL, IS | A gully with gravel on the bottom left by running water should be marked as an intermittent stream. A gully with dirt and leaves, etc. probably only has some water when it rains or snow is melting. |
PTI, RUIN | A "point of interest" may be a ruin and hopefully more interesting than something marked as a "RUIN". |
BRG, IS, ST | When are logs dropped across a stream not a bridge? Does a cut board make a bridge? |
ORP, R | When does a road become an old road? When trees and other plants are growing in it. How high? |
OTP, TP | When does a trail become an old trail? When grass and other plants are taking over. How much? |
LK, POD | How big does a pond need to get before it becomes a lake? A bad drought can't dry up a lake? |
RIG, TP | How much does the ground need to be raised in the form of a "rib" to be a ridge? How much of an "elbow" (angle) would a trail following a contour make? |
GUL, TP | How deep and sharp does a depression have to be before it becomes a gully? Some "depressions" will be fairly small and labeled as a gully. |
PAS, RIG | How deep does a saddle on a ridge have to be to become a pass instead of a depression on a ridge? If there are two contour lines above the point on both sides, it will likely be labeled a pass. |
What about Streams?
When trails are mapped in the mountains when snow is melting there can be numerous small streams that might be marked as "Intermittent Streams". Other spots where water is coming out of the hillside and possibly running down the trail might be marked as "Miscellaneous" with a note of "Seepage". As the snow disappears these will dry up so it may not look like there was ever water at the marked location. When trails are mapped in the mountains after the snow has melted there won't be any waypoints at these locations because there wasn't any water flow at that time. A seepage area is a wide area, a stream is narrow but may run down a trail some distance. A seepage area may funnel into a stream.
If you look at the topographic map, the size of the catch basin can be a clue to whether or not there will be water in an
"Intermittent Stream" or even a "Stream". If there isn't a blue line or blue dash-dotted line on the topographic map where an
"Intermittent Stream" waypoint occurs, it could be a stream that will dry up with the snow.
Exceptions
File notes: Margins for tables (for printing): Top = .4", Bottom = .46", Left = .3", Right = .3"
Margins for comments: Top = .75", Bottom = .5", Left = .75", Right = .75"
File: WaypointNameFormat.rtf December 30, 2006 Produced by Dan Anderson