What is the National Topographic System (NTS)?
The National Topographic System (NTS) is a system of divisions used primarily for topographic maps of the Canadian landmass. Maps at the 1:250,000 scale are identified by a combination of numbers and letters from A to P (e.g. 13C). A map at the 1:50,000 scale corresponds to 1/16 of a map at the 1:250,000 scale, with each unit numbered from 01 to 16. Adding the unit number to the 1:250,000 number produces a unique identifier (e.g. 13C09). You will find more information on the referencing system of Canada at the following address: http://maps.nrcan.gc.ca/topo101/topo_e.php. Also click on ‘Topo 101’ on the left menu under Education section.
