Which of the following is NOT a major terrain feature?

• A. Hill
• B. Ridge
• C. Valley
• D. Spur

Answer: (D)

Major terrain features are the large, dominant landforms that shape how the terrain looks on the map and how you plan movement and fields of view. A hill, a ridge, and a valley each represent broad, recognizable shapes that influence observation, concealment, and maneuver over considerable distances. A spur, however, is a narrow projection of high ground that extends from a hill or ridge into a valley; it’s small in scale and does not define the overall landscape in the same way. Because of that, spur is not classified as a major terrain feature. The other terms describe the larger, continuous terrain forms used for terrain analysis and planning.