What type of font is most appropriate for geographic features such as mountains and lakes?

Serif fonts are generally preferred for labeling geographic features such as mountains and lakes because they include small lines or "serifs" at the ends of their strokes, which can enhance readability and lend a classic, formal look. When used in a map context, these fonts often help create a sense of permanence and stability, which suits the depiction of natural features. The detailing in serif fonts can also add visual interest, making the labels stand out against varied backgrounds like terrain or water.

While other font types have their uses—sans-serif fonts being clean and modern, monospace fonts useful for coding or tabular data, and display fonts usually designed for headlines and not suitable for general labeling—serif fonts align better with established cartographic conventions for displaying geographic features. Thus, using serif fonts provides both a traditional aesthetic and clarity in communication, making them the most appropriate choice for this purpose.