In my opinion navigation is the first and the most important skill everyone should learn. Although many hiking trails are well marked and there are so many hiking videos for the same trail that you can literally have a virtual hike from the comfort of your home but we still hear many hikers are lost in different wilderness areas. So here we go.
A- Basic navigation
1- You shouldn't rely on the basic navigation while you are hiking. You have to have minimum tools to navigate safely and this basic part is what you do every step you hike nevertheless every now and then you have to use more reliable techniques described in part B and/or C.
2- Be mindful. You should have a sense of direction all the time. I do it by paying attention to the Sun and comparing the visible land features with the map or satellite picture I have explored before the trip.
3- Exercise your estimation. You can develop a sense of the length by guessing and comparing your estimation with the true value in early hikes. I try the distance and the height.
B- Compass and map
This is the most exciting navigation style. Unlike the GPS, you have to be more mindful while using compass and map and consequently you pay more attention to the environment. It is also the most reliable method because it works in all kind of environments and weathers and it doesn't require any power consumption. The main drawback in my opinion is the weight if you are thru-hiking. You also need more experience to use the map effectively.
- Use a reliable compass. Don't go with cheap non-accurate compass, this is a safety tool like a rope for climbing and you should be able to trust it. Military grades are durable but heavier. There are ligher options in the market.
Maps:
- There are very good maps in the market if you want to purchase.
- You can also find the maps online and print them. I use heavy duty tear-resistant and water repellent papers to print them out.
- Use a Upsak Ziploc bag to keep them dry if you have to hike in the rain or a wet environment.
- In order to convert the length to real distance you can use a piece of rope.
- Why there are many North?
True (Geographic) North: This is the direction of the Earth rotation axis (it is almost pointing towards the north star, Polaris)
Magnetic North: This is the direction of the magnetic field of the Earth.
Grid North: This is the alignment of the grid lines on map.
In good maps there should be a an indicator for each north direction and depending on what you are using to navigate you have to consider the difference between these north directions.
National geographic free printable topo maps:
Comprehensive guide to using a compass and map:
Rei guide: https://youtu.be/0cF0ovA3FtY
C- Digital navigation
- Know the difference between true compass and GPS compass. GPS compass doesn't work reliably if you are not moving because it finds the direction by following the change in your coordinates.
Phone:
- Please note that phone GPS is not as accurate as a real GPS, especially in canyons, forests or any place with not very exposed environments.
- Have a reliable charging plan
- Make sure the apps are available offline.
- Download offline map of the destination.
_ There are many apps with map and trails in the market.
GPS:
- This is the most reliable and the most accurate method of navigation.
- Before you have a serious hike make sure you know how to use the GPS and how to interpret the numbers.
Thanks a lot. This was very helpful.
ReplyDeleteNice tips. Thanks for the links, especially the compass guide was very helpful.
ReplyDeleteI always get confused by so many definitions of the north.
ReplyDeleteI love using compass and map. I feel more connected to the nature when I hike and navigate with a map using compass. It needs a little time until you master the skill but sure it worth it.
ReplyDelete