Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Educate yourself on the basic use and reading of a compass. There are many books and websites about reading a compass, but the basic information to keep in mind is that a compass is divided into 360 degrees, with 0 being north, 90 east, 180 south, and 270 west. So if you were asked to follow a compass bearing of 32 degrees, for example, you would travel north and slightly east.
Make sure you use a high-quality compass. Ideally, your compass should have a mark for each, so that you can orient yourself precisely.
Start by orienting yourself in an area you know well. A nearby field is an ideal place to learn about compass bearings. Walk to the middle of the field and try to determine the compass bearings of objects in sight.
Estimate compass bearings of objects further from you: if you find yourself lost in the woods, these estimates can help you find your way out. For example, knowing that a stream is to your south can help you to find a larger body of water where there may be civilization.
Try a more difficult area. Find a nearby trail and keep track of your compass bearings as you hike. You can try taking many turns, keeping track of the compass bearings you followed to get to your destination. To reverse your compass bearings, add or subtract 180 from your current bearing. For example, if you are traveling at 23 degrees, the opposite direction would be 203 degrees. You can use these opposite bearings to find your way back.
Bring a map to a trail or into a more rugged area. Decide on a point in that map you would like to find your way to, and use your compass and the map to figure out your direction. By using both a map and compass, you can see how these two items are used together on a longer hike.
Take note of landmarks or trail markers (often painted on trees) along your path. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially noting the terrain and basic shape of the trail. This can help you locate your path if you have trouble reading your compass, or if you become separated from it for some reason.