Maps

Navigation With Maps

Navigating with a topo map is simple, but you need to be able to use a compass and read a topo map (for instructions click here).

Finding where you are:

Finding where you are on a map is easy. What you have to do is find two landmarks that you can find on your map. These landmarks cannot be in a straight line (from your point of view), and ideally are about 90 degrees apart. To find where you are take a bearing on the first point, correct for declination, and draw a line on the map from the feature, along the bearing. Repeat this with the second land mark, where the lines cross is where you are. Of course is you're on a trail, or along a stream you only need one bearing. Where the bearing crosses the feature is where you are. See below for and example.

*Note: if you don't know how to draw a bearing on the map see the compass page.

Adapted from Gem Trek Publishing (1996)

A trick:

If you start following your own routs you will eventually come across a situation where you have to travel to a parking lot at the end of a road. It is easy to miss such parking lots, especially when your traveling in wooded areas. To avoid getting lost aim for a location on the access road about 1/2 km away from the parking lot. This way you'll hit the road, and then fallow it to the parking lot. See below for an example.

Adapted from Gem Trek Publishing (1996)

Finding a rout on a map:

This is another case of only being able to learn through experience. However here are some pointers:

-Avoid traveling in small valleys along streams. These tend to be choked with bush, and there may be drop off's that are a result of the streams erosion.

-Avoid traveling on moderate, unforested slopes. These slopes tend to be shale slopes and can be dangerous to cross.

-In winter avoid moving along slopes that are between 30 and 50 degrees as these slopes are the most common origin of avalanches.

-Avoid routs that cross many streams

-Many things such as small cliffs, seasonal streams and heavy bush will not be marked on maps. Make sure you leave time in your trip plan to deal with these situation. A general rule is double the time it takes to travel an equal distance on a trail.

Reading the map.