Rant: My John Muir Trail navigation fail and fix

Last fall, I missed a trail marker and got lost on the John Muir Trail. I had a paper map in my pack, and it showed me the way back. What's your backup plan if your phone dies on a hike?

3 comments

3 Comments

coleman.jade1mo ago

Honestly, paper maps are a great start, but my backup plan has more layers. I always carry a small compass and actually know how to use it with the map. I also make a point to learn major landmarks before I go, so even without gear I have a mental picture. Relying on just one backup, even a paper one, feels risky to me. Tech fails, paper can get wet and tear, so stacking a few simple skills makes way more sense.

blake_mason671mo ago

It's funny how often people look for one perfect solution instead of building basic skills. We see it everywhere from cooking to fixing things around the house. Your map-and-compass method is a solid example of just learning how stuff works.

the_mason1mo ago

Remember when you could just ask someone for directions? Last time I tried that, the guy just showed me his broken phone screen.