Navigating in the Wilderness• Always know the direction you are headed• Thus always know direction home• Whenever possible carry a map of area• Use internet/maps to study area (markers)

before entering woods• Always tell someone where you are going

(itinerary), and when you plan to return (may leave note on vehicle)

• Plan ahead for weather/temperature

Navigating with the Sun

• Rises in East, sets in West

• By noon sun is about South

• Be mindful of where the sun is in relation to your direction when entering woods…it can help you regain orientation

• Watch your shadow…if travelling relatively straight, your shadow will move clockwise around you.

Navigating with stars

• Not for amateurs or guessing games

• Be able to identify the “north star”

• Often done by following side of big dipper

• Big dipper is above Orion's belt

• North star is in the direction of NORTH

Navigating with Water

• All water flows downhill and eventually to the ocean= civilization

• Use lakes, lake shapes as land marks

• GOOD chance if you make it to a lake shore you’ll find paths/trails

• Streams/brooks may be easier to hike than dense woods

Navigating with Terrain/Features

• Use lakes, odd trees, hill tops, large rocks as navigational markers

• These markers can help keep you walking straight and/or identifiable direction.

• These markers help identify your location on a map

Global Positioning System

• Excellent Navigational tool except…

• Relies on batteries

• Requires open space for signal strength

• Thus if lost in thick woods they may be useless

• More to come….

Navigating with a compass

• The best navigational tool• Never enter the woods without one• Gives you accurate direction anytime,

anywhere in the world!• Cheap, lightweight, waterproof, compact• Coupled with a map and you really can’t

get lost• Caution…avoid proximity to metal when

using a compass

How to use a Compass

• Hold compass flat in hand

• Turn main dial to North

• Turn yourself until arrows line up

• You are now facing north

Compass Bearings

Make the most of your Compass

• Plan your route and bearings ahead of time

• Determine bearings of landmarks from start point (thus know way home)

• Bring a map to determine bearings onsite and your travelling speed. This can help to reduce stress and keep you confident in your direction

• ALWAYS TRUST YOUR COMPASS!