Map Scale Calculator
Convert map distances to real-world distances using map scale ratios.
Results
Map scales tell you the ratio between a distance on the map and the real world but converting that to actual kilometers or miles requires some arithmetic. A 1:50,000 scale means 1 cm on the map equals 500 meters in reality. This calculator does the conversion for you in both metric and imperial units so you can plan hikes, estimate driving distances or work with topographic maps without breaking out a ruler and a notepad.
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Frequently asked questions
It means 1 unit on the map equals 50,000 of the same unit in reality. So 1 cm on the map is 50,000 cm (500 meters or 0.5 km) in the real world.
Measure the distance on the map in cm or inches, then multiply by the scale number. For a 1:25,000 map, 4 cm on the map equals 4 x 25,000 = 100,000 cm = 1 km.
1:25,000 is the standard for hiking. It shows enough detail to follow trails and contour lines. 1:50,000 works for general planning but misses smaller paths. 1:10,000 is very detailed for small areas.
One inch on a 1:24,000 map equals 24,000 inches = 2,000 feet = about 0.38 miles. This is the standard scale for USGS topographic maps in the United States.
Divide the two scale numbers. A feature that is 4 cm on a 1:25,000 map would be 2 cm on a 1:50,000 map (50,000/25,000 = 2, so distances are halved).