Line joining the point along the same gradient is called contour gradient or grade contour. All the points on a contour have the same elevation. But all the points on a contour gradient do not have the same elevation but all of them lie on the same gradient. Contour gradient can be used to locate the direction of road having a particular gradient. As shown in fig. a contour map on which the contour lines are at 2 m intervals.
Suppose it is required to trace the center line of road with a ruling gradient of 1 in 30 m from the starting point A on the 62 m contour line. Since the contour interval is 2 m and the gradient 1 in 30 m, the horizontal distance between A and the point on the next 64 m contour line is 2 × 30 = 60 m. With center A and radius equal to 60 m draw an arc cutting the 64 m contour line arc B on map. With center B and the same radius draw an arc intersecting the next contour lines obtained. A, B, C, D, E,……… are the points on required grade. Now mark the contour on ground and established a point B at a distance of 60 m from A on contour of RL 64. Similarly others points are established to obtain the grade contour on field.