Things You'll Need:
- Topographic maps
- Compass with 360 degree scale and adjustable declination
- Clear ruler with protractor scale
- Mechanical pencil
-
Step 1
Purchase paper copies of maps at sporting goods stores or outfitters for the area you plan to hike in, or go online and download free maps at ‘www.topozone.com.’ You can select a map area and scale on Topozone and print out an 8.5 by 11 inch map with scale and magnetic declination. Print out maps at different scales to get wide area coverage.
-
Step 2
Check the contour interval, which is the elevation difference between adjacent brown contour lines. In mountainous areas, contours may be spaced at 40 feet or as much as 100 feet. Areas with low relief will have 20-foot spacings or even 10-foot contour spacings. Use the magnetic declination diagram to set your compass to point to geographic north.
-
Step 3
Use the map as a roadmap to plan a route to your trailhead. Light duty roads are shown as light lines, while unimproved roads are dashed. Some of these roads may be inaccessible or private. Plot several potential parking locations on the map in pencil, then scout the final trailhead location when you get to the area.
-
Step 4
Sighting Mirror CompassPractice locating your position at the start of your hike by triangulation. Aim your compass at a landmark that can be found on the map such as a structure, the end of a hill or pond, a road intersection or stream fork. Use your protractor to draw a line from the landmark to your estimated position.
-
Step 5
Repeat the sighting process on a second landmark in a different direction and draw a second line. Your approximate position on the map will be at the intersection of the two lines. Use triangulation to estimate your location about every half mile to mile of your hike. Mark your hiking progress in pencil as you go along.
