Don’t get lost: Tune up your compass

There is no substitute for a good compass, and the ability to use it. Since getting lost is generally the reason for most wilderness emergencies, stay found to stay out of trouble! A map and compass are basic navigation tools in the backcountry. Many people seem to be very uncomfortable when they cialis no prescription …

Four more maps for emergency evacuation survival

A recent post “Survive this: Six maps you should have for urban disaster evacuations” was very popular. Here’s four more maps. by Leon Pantenburg Last week, we published a story on six basic maps to have when planning an urban evacuation. Apparently, a lot of you were interested – the post went viral, and got …

Start with these basics for your wilderness survival gear

You don’t have any wilderness experience, but you want some.  So what do you take along to make sure you get back?  by Leon Pantenburg One of the most common questions from wilderness newcomers  is: “What gear will I need?” And that’s a really good question! Walk through any sporting goods store and you’ll notice a …

Simple survival tips for using a map and compass

It’s really hard to think when there’s this awful, nauseating realization that you may be lost in the wilderness and you start to panic. Suppose you have a map and compass along, and a basic idea of how to use them. But maybe you didn’t think about using them…// // The day may start out …

Survival Myth Busted: Finding directions by tree moss

One of the pervasive folk legends about finding directions  in the wilderness or woods, is that moss grows on a certain side of a tree or rock. Just find your way by observing where the moss is,  according to this theory, and you won’t get lost. According to my compass, the moss was on the west side of this stump. …

Survival Myth Busted: Finding directions by tree moss

One of the pervasive folk legends about finding directions  in the wilderness or woods, is that moss grows on a certain side of a tree or rock. Just find your way by observing where the moss is,  according to this theory, and you won’t get lost. According to my compass, the moss was on the west side of this stump. …

Improve your GPS and land navigation skills now

Spring means more people will be getting outside and enjoying the weather and sunshine. Here are some GPS tips to help you get back! By Blake Miller Now is the perfect time to practice and improve your Global Positioning System skills.  Spring hiking and camping and fishing trips offer excellent opportunities to get “dialed-in” with …

Survival Myth Busted: Finding Directions by Tree Moss

One of the pervasive folk legends about finding directions  in the wilderness or woods, is that moss grows on a certain side of a tree or rock. Just find your way by observing where the moss is,  according to this theory, and you won’t get lost. According to my compass, the moss was on the west side of this stump. …

GPS Setup: Using the right coordinates for safe backcountry travel

Datum? Coordinate systems? To most beginner GPS users, these terms may be confusing, and subsequently ignored or not understood. But before you can navigate effectively – and safely –  you must be able to set your GPS with the information on your maps. Navigation expert Blake Miller explains these terms and how to apply the …

Learn this wilderness navigation tip to keep from getting lost in the backcountry

A baseball field backstop keeps the ball from going to far. Here is how to create a “backstop” in the wilderness to keep you from going in the wrong direction. by Blake Miller One feature every outdoorsman should pay attention to is called a “backstop.” A backstop is a boundary or a natural barrier that …