Getting lost can happen to anyone when you’re outdoors. You think you’re on the right trail only to suddenly realize that you haven’t seen any trail markers for over an hour. And when you try to retrace your steps to find your way back, you find that everything starts to look the same.
Getting lost may just be a small inconvenience if you can find your way quickly, but prolonged loss and not being ready to go out after daylight can lead to serious problems. Here are some ways I avoid getting lost while hiking.
1. Do your research before going to a new place
Proper trip planning will alleviate most problems because you already have an idea of where you’re going and what to expect. So what is considered good research? It is important to know the duration of the climb and the difficulty level of the terrain. Is the trail well marked? Are there any diversions that cause confusion? What to expect, what to bring, and who to call for help, etc. – everything should be part of your research. Sharing my hikes is a good place to look for information. If you can’t find this information and aren’t sure about venturing out alone, go with someone who knows the trail.
2. Be aware of your surroundings
Getting lost usually happens when we are at the point of “having too much fun” and become complacent while hiking. Note the major landmarks you pass, such as a huge rock or a unique tree. Anything “unique” or “out of the ordinary”. When you come to a divided road, note the direction you took. Pay special attention to “diverting hidden paths”usually in the form of a Y-junction. For example, when hiking uphill it appears that you are going uphill on a single route, only to realize on the way back that the route you came from is actually a Y intersection. This can be particularly tricky and you need to be aware of your surroundings to avoid this, so be careful of this.
3. Stay on the main trail
Most often people get lost because they stray from the main trail. It can be tempting to take a shortcut, explore the unknown, and try a different route. Know and be aware that venturing off the main trail greatly increases the risk of getting lost. Be very careful and observant when taking a side trail to answer the call of nature. The desire to relieve yourself can make you forget to remain observant and you will soon find yourself alone without knowing exactly how to go back.
4. Use a GPS tracker
Use a GPS tracker and actually know how to use one (download a cell phone based app e.g. Geo Tracker and bring a spare battery).
A GPS tracker records and marks the route you took so that you can retrace the same route. Whatever device/app you use, test the accuracy and learn how to use it before your trip. Technology is a good thing, but it can fail; Wobbly GPS signal, dead battery or faulty phone, everything can discourage you. A GPS tracker is good to serve as a backup reference when needed, but don’t rely on technology alone, as technology can fail. Continuing to be an observer while hiking is a prudent approach.
5. Use alternative marking to mark your path at times when you don’t feel confident.
Collect small branches, twigs, and anything else you can find naturally to group them together and use them as unique markers to help mark your path. I have also seen places where they place small pieces of paper along the trail to mark the path. Although paper is biodegradable, it’s always good to pick it up when going out as it can be quite unsightly if everyone starts doing it.
Being prepared reduces your chances of getting lost and allows you to enjoy your trip.