Avoid Getting Lost While Hiking Off-Trail With These Simple Tips

Every day more than a dozen hikers go missing in the United States. Whether by accident or design, the most common way people get lost in the woods is by wandering or hiking off-trail. While it may seem obvious that one of the best ways to prevent getting lost is to stay on the trail, there are adventures that may require this type of hiking. If you happen to embark on such a trek, you can avoid getting lost with these simple tips.

Like any hiking excursion, the primary way to guard against becoming lost on an off-trail hike is proper planning and preparation. Even though your hike will take you places trails don't go, you should research the area with maps and satellite images and plan the route you intend to take before heading out. It is also important to let someone else know of your planned route, as well as your estimated return time. This is especially important if you are heading out on a solo hiking trip, as you will have no one other than yourself to rely on.

Although no one ever plans on becoming a missing hiker, you should be sure to know the basics for survival, such as how to build an emergency shelter or signal for help if you get lost. In addition to this pre-trip planning, these simple tips will help you avoid getting lost while hiking off-trail.

Even if you enter the woods with a well-planned path, it is important to be able to follow that route. To do so, you need to carry a map and navigation tools and utilize them to make sure you are following your intended route. You can also use these tools to adjust that route if you come across unexpected obstacles. 

GPS navigation units like the Garmin eTrex are very helpful and should be used if you have access to one. However, even if you are carrying an electronic device, you still need to pack the traditional old school navigation aids — a map and compass. Knowing how to use a compass and map before heading into the woods is essential, as electronics can malfunction, signals can be lost, and batteries can die. It is also a good idea to periodically mark your progress and position on a map so you have a recent reference point should you become disoriented.

Even as you keep track of your progress along your planned route on a map and/or your GPS navigation device, you need to pay attention to your surroundings. Pick out identifiable landmarks. But, be aware that even if you pride yourself on having a photogenic memory, you may misremember some details. So, it is a good idea to mark these spots on your map and make notes of turns you take throughout your hike. You may even want to take photos with your phone. Doing so will ensure you have an accurate record of the path you traveled.

Always keep in mind that even though you are going off-trail, that does not mean you are in unexplored territory. Odds are, some humans have passed through this area previously. Additionally, while the Leave No Trace principles are the goal of outdoor adventures, that doesn't always happen. As a result, you may very well see signs of other hikers and campers. Trash, debris, campfire sites, and other traces left behind by people can be helpful in reassuring you that you are not completely lost if you should become disoriented or go astray of your planned path.

It is also a good idea to look for footprints, although, you should keep in mind that such tracks may actually be a false trail. So, if the prints continue to lead in one direction, they may be moving in a way that is helpful. But, if you see return tracks, it may be an indication you are on a false path and those before you ultimately had to turn back. 

Finally, if the unthinkable happens and you do find yourself lost, follow the STOP method – stop, think, observe, and plan. Refer back to your map, notes, and photos. Using these in conjunction with your GPS and/or compass, attempt to retrace your route back to familiar ground. If you are unable to find your way back, don't hesitate to call for help. However, be aware that if you are hiking off-trail, there is a chance you will not have cell service. So, it is important to be prepared with apps or devices such as a Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator in order to call for help when hiking in areas with no service.