How to walk a compass bearing

Practice using a compass in your backyard before going out into unknown territory.

It is very easy to get lost in the woods, especially if it is cloudy, misty or foggy. A safer way to travel on foot is to use a map and a compass, which can help keep you going in the right direction.

Things You'll Need

• Map
• <br>Compass
• <br>Flashlight
• <br>Knapsack

Instructions

1. Use your compass to align your map. Determine where you are in relation to your cardinal directions.

2. Figure out the direction and distance you will need to walk before changing direction. The direction in which you need to go is your compass bearing. Remember this information.

3. Leave an item on the ground like a knapsack or a coat.

4. Walk the compass bearing until you can barely see the item you left behind.

5. Put another item on the ground and walk back to the first item you left. Verify with your compass that you are walking in the opposite direction.

6. Take the first item with you and walk back to the second item you left on the ground. Verify your compass and make sure you are walking the compass bearing.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until you reach your desired destination.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a friend along with you. Not only is this safer, it speeds up the compass bearing process.