How to Navigate While Hiking
Knowing how to navigate while hiking is pretty important. It seems like a daunting skill when you’re starting out but I promise it isn’t as hard or intense as it seems. There are a few different ways you can navigate while hiking- some are basically like Google Maps.
Apps to help navigate while hiking
Apps are probably the most popular option when it comes to backcountry navigation. It’s totally understandable why. They tend to have free versions, everyone has a phone, and we are all used to following virtual maps (real-life ones, not so much).
This post dives into different options for both trail finding and trail navigation. I use the pro version of AllTrails because I can see where I am on a pre-downloaded map. This is essentially Google Maps but for a trail. If you’re directionally challenged this is a solid option, though not foolproof.
A big downside to relying only on an app to navigate while hiking is that phones die and those maps can be inaccurate. There have been more than a handful of times where the tracking on my AllTrails stops working, has me in the wrong location, or straight up just never works. It’s a great tool to have, especially starting out, but as you get comfortable hiking it is good to add in other navigation tools.
Apps left to right: CalTopo, AllTrails, Hiking Project
Maps
There’s nothing like whipping out a map to figure out where you are. It impresses everyone around. While you’re starting out, try to take a paper map with you to use in conjunction with an app. This will help you get more comfortable reading maps and keep you on trail while doing so. Make sure to opt for waterproof maps (they have a weird feel to them) over one you can just print at home. If it starts raining, you’re SOL with a non-waterproof map.
As far as other benefits of a paper map go, they are a great resource for understanding the surroundings. Reliable water sources show up on maps which isn’t something you’d get from an app. The official mileage is also shown on a map which can help you figure your whereabouts.
The downside is that reading maps (especially topographic maps) can be intimidating and hard at first. There’s a lot going on between the various dotted lines, contour lines, and different colors. If you’re wanting to snag some maps, the most common producer is National Geographic. If you’re in Colorado and want to support a smaller company, Outdoor Trail Maps is great. They’re more compact than the National Geographic ones but just as good.
Maps from www.outdoortrailmaps.com. These are my favorite Colorado maps!
Navigation devices
There are also devices for navigation. Garmin is probably the most famous for this. Their inReach (full size) has a screen where you can see your path as well as any trail you pre-load onto the device. This is like a hybrid between using your phone and using a map. It’s not as pretty as some of the apps out there but it gets the job done and provides some additional information. Since these devices are battery-powered you still have the possibility of it dying on you when you need it most.
There are some GPS devices that don’t have a screen and instead use an app on your phone. That would have the same pitfalls as using an app but the accuracy would be better.
The big takeaway here is that you have options when it comes to navigating trails. No matter your preferred method you should always have a backup plan (very likely a paper map!). Navigating while hiking is a skill you build over time but it’s a fun one to develop.
