Warning: my paper map trick almost got me lost in the Smokies

I used to rely on just GPS on my phone for route planning. Last fall on the AT near Clingmans Dome, my battery died 4 miles from the nearest shelter. Now I always carry a waterproof paper map AND a compass, and I practice using them before each trip. Has anyone else found a backup routing method that actually works when electronics fail?

3 comments

3 Comments

angela68714d agoTop Commenter

Your spinning trick I've done that too. Now I preload maps on my phone too.

charliestone14d ago

2 miles into my first solo hike I pulled out my fancy compass and realized I had absolutely no idea how to use it. Spent 20 minutes spinning in circles like an idiot before a passing Boy Scout took pity on me. Now I keep a laminated cheat sheet in my pocket because my directional skills are apparently stuck at kindergarten level.

the_faith13d ago

Oh man, I feel this in my bones. I bought a fancy compass too thinking it would make me feel like a real outdoors person, and the first time I tried to use it I just stood there staring at the needle like it was speaking a different language. It's honestly humbling how easy it is to get turned around when you don't have cell service and the sun is hiding behind clouds. That laminated cheat sheet is smart though, I might have to steal that idea because my brain just refuses to remember which direction is which under pressure. At least you had the Boy Scout, I just ended up walking in a big circle back to my car feeling pretty foolish.