Hypsometric Maps

Hypsometric maps are a type of topographic map in which shading is used to represent elevation.  The shading varies continuously throughout the elevation scale. 

 

This map uses hypsometric shading to show elevation on the island of Cuba. Dark green is used to represent lower lying areas, lighter greens changing into yellows and then  browns indicate the higher elevations.

Link to this map to see how it was created: http://blog.isallaboutmath.com/2009/02/14/topographic-map-of-cuba-produced-with-srtm-data/