Mountain Navigation Basics
GPS is great, but batteries die. Learn to read terrain, set bearings, and keep track of time and distance.
Quick Tips
- Orient your map to the land.
- Use handrails like ridges or rivers.
- Practice back-bearing to retrace steps.
Checklist
- Topo map
- Compass
- GPS/phone + power
- Altimeter
- Route plan + turnaround time
Navigation is a skill you build before you need it.