Re: Using a Topo Map in the Woods

"I have also learned that contour lines don't really tell you if the elevation change is a slope or a vertical drop, which often forces me to take a detour." - the less space there is between the contour lines the steeper the terrain - cliffs are pretty easy to spot (unless, of course, the cliff in question is shorter than the distance represented by the contour lines ...).

As for getting oriented - the best place to start is at the trail head - keep notes on approximate distances and bearings - perhaps represent your route on the map with a pencil line - if you can manage to stay oriented you won't get lost! The worst time to try to figure out where you are is when it strikes you that you're lost -
One really nice thing about keeping notes on your maps is - if you find some place really beautiful - and you've noted distance and direction - you'll be able to get back there again - you can even share the beta with fellow hikers - no GPS required.