Hiking is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in nature, but even the most experienced hikers can lose their way if they’re not well-prepared. Whether you’re heading out on a familiar path or exploring a new trail, knowing how to navigate effectively is key to a safe and enjoyable adventure. The good news? With the right preparation and tools, you can confidently hike without the fear of getting lost.
Follow these tried-and-true tips from one our trusted Marketplace sellers, HARVEY Maps, to ensure you stay on course during your next hiking trip.
Every successful hike begins with thorough preparation. The more you know about your trail before you set off, the less likely you are to lose your way. Start by gathering all the information you can about the trail you’re planning to hike. Guidebooks, trail websites and map-reading basics can provide valuable insights into trail conditions, difficulty levels, and key landmarks. Familiarising yourself with these details helps you stay oriented as you hike.
Even if you plan to use GPS, it’s essential to carry physical maps of the area you’ll be hiking as well. This ensures that you have access to navigation tools even if you lose mobile phone reception or encounter technical issues with your devices. A high-quality map is one of the most important tools for any hiker. HARVEY Maps offers a range of detailed maps that are perfect for navigating complex terrains. For example, the Superwalker series provides clear, detailed 1:25,000 and 1:30,000 scale waterproof maps of the UK and Ireland. The lightweight design makes them easy to carry, and the uncluttered layout means more people can read them without glasses, ensuring you have the detail you need for sure navigation.
The weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous regions. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out, and prepare accordingly. Make sure you tell someone where you are planning to hike and what time you expect to be back. Bad weather can obscure trails and landmarks, so it’s best to be ready for anything. Rest assured – all HARVEY Maps are printed on waterproof paper, so rain won’t ruin your plans.
Understanding how to read a map is a skill every hiker should have. It may seem complicated at first, but with practice, it will become second nature.
Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial for staying on track. Even if you’re confident in your navigation skills, it’s easy to become disoriented if you’re not paying attention. As you hike, periodically look back at the trail. This gives you a sense of what the trail will look like on your return journey, making it easier to find your way back.
Many trails are waymarked with a specific symbol, such as the Acorn when on a National Trail. Keep an eye out for these markers, and if you don’t see one for a while, it might be time to double-check your location. Trail intersections can be tricky, especially if the signage is unclear. When you reach a junction, take a moment to consult your map to ensure you’re taking the correct path.
No matter how well-prepared you are, getting lost is always a possibility. If you do find yourself off course, it’s important to stay calm. As soon as you realise you’re lost, stop moving. Take a few minutes to assess your surroundings and think about where you might have gone off track.
Check your map, compass, and GPS to help reorient yourself. If you’re on a marked trail, try retracing your steps to the last point where you were sure of your location. Often, this will help you find your way back to the correct path. If you’re unable to determine your location or retrace your steps, it may be best to stay put. Moving further could take you deeper into unfamiliar territory, making it harder for rescuers to find you. You may need to use your mobile phone (if you have signal) to call for help.
Navigation is a skill that improves with practice. If you’re new to hiking or map reading, start by practising in familiar areas before tackling more challenging trails.
Hiking is all about enjoying the journey, not just reaching the destination, but if you decide to stay in or are discouraged by a shift in weather, you can of course always keep yourself busy with a Mazzle or playing cards. But with the right preparation and navigation skills, you can focus on the beauty around you, confident that you’ll stay on the right path. So, lace up your boots, grab your map, and get ready to explore the great outdoors without worrying about losing your way. Happy hiking!
