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?

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1 Comment

coleman.jade6h 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.