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When I was young, I asked my dad how he kept from getting lost in the woods. He said, "Don’t focus on where you're going all the time; you have to look where you came from so you know how to get back." He emphasized feeling the terrain changes and keeping track of your elevation. This advice gave me a keen sense of direction and the ability to move freely in the woods, always finding my way back to the car after hunting for hours. Back then, I never used a compass and never got lost.
Keep Track of Your Back Trail
Another crucial reason to watch your back trail is that you never know who might follow your path. One story my dad told happened during deer season in the southern tier of western New York, just outside the little town of Bolivar. There was a hunting camp where a few guys would gather. The crew headed out in the dark, up an old familiar trail. At the base of the hill, they split up and headed to their chosen hunting spots.
Dad went high up the hill to a bench overlooking some heavily used trails. As the day went on, with only a few does making their way through the snow-covered trails, dad caught movement below his position. Red and black checked wool hunting clothes came into view. It was Floyd, one of dad’s best friends. He was slowly following the trail left by the does that had passed by earlier. So intent on what was in front of him, he didn’t see the eight-point buck following him.
Oh, it was so tempting for dad to drop that buck and have a good joke on Floyd, but he thought better of it and just watched, hoping Floyd would look back. Well, he never did look back, and they both went around the ridge and out of sight. If that happened today, it would be on YouTube before they got back to camp.
So the lesson is, when you’re in the woods, pay attention to your whole surroundings and look back often to keep your way back clear.
Gear Recommendations for Safe Navigation
To help you navigate the woods safely, here are a few recommendations:
Compass and Map - Even though my dad and I never used a compass, it's a good idea to have one. Check out this compass and this topographic map set for your next adventure.
Hiking GPS - For those who prefer modern technology, a hiking GPS can be a lifesaver. Consider the Garmin GPSMAP 64sx for reliable navigation.
Hiking Boots - Good footwear is essential for feeling the terrain changes. These Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Plus II boots are excellent for hiking.
Backpack - A quality backpack can help you carry all your essentials comfortably. The Osprey Packs Talon 22 is a great option.
Next time you venture into the woods, remember to take in your entire surroundings. Look back often to ensure you know how to get back, and enjoy the freedom that comes with a keen sense of direction and situational awareness. Happy hiking and hunting!
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