What does the color red-brown/gray indicate on a map?

The color red-brown or gray on a map typically indicates cultural features and contour lines. Cultural features include man-made structures and alterations to the landscape, which can be represented through various colors to distinguish them from natural features. Contour lines, which depict elevation changes in the terrain, are often represented in a similar color range, making it easier for the map reader to identify both the topographical characteristics and human influences on the landscape.

Understanding the significance of these colors is crucial for effective navigation and comprehension of the mapped area, as they provide essential information about both the natural and constructed environment. This knowledge allows users to interpret the map accurately, recognizing how both physical geography and human development coalesce.