March 20, 2024
Navigating the wilderness may be more than just a hobby for you. Perhaps it helps you keep sane and relieve stress. Thankfully, you no longer have to rely on outdated maps and unconventional methods to find your way. Technology has made navigating even the deepest forests and most remote locations easier and safer. Here is some of the best tech-based navigation gear you can use in your next adventure.
GPS is popular with hikers, campers and hunters when navigating the wilderness. Many Americans are outdoor fanatics, so even beginners venture into the wild with a GPS unit. Its biggest draw is it doesn't require an internet connection or phone signal to function. Here are the top reasons why you should get a GPS tracker:
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GPS requires three fundamental elements — satellite, ground receiving station and the receiver on the tracker. It’s a system of 31 satellites serving as site markers to determine precise positions in the wild. The satellites serve as landmarks. The GPS tracker receives signals from the satellites containing coordinates on how far or near you are to at least three of them. The tracker uses “trilateration” to calculate location, velocity and other movement data. The information is then passed onto a central server, fitted in your GPS tracker, allowing you to see your precise location on the screen.
GPS models offer various features, screen sizes and menus. If you're a beginner, choose a brand that's easy to use. If you’re ready for an adventure, download your route to a handset. Use a computer to plan your destination and waypoints. Then, connect the tracker to the PC via a USB cord so you can transfer the route data to the GPS. Ensure you’re outdoors when navigating for the satellite signals to reach your device and provide you with precise positioning data. A GPS unit is a valuable tracking tool for outdoor fans, but you can't singlehandedly rely on it. For instance, it can't tell you whether a trail is prone to hazards or is closed.
Photo Credit: Bernie Friel
Smartphones can do so much more than call and message people. The latest versions are equipped with various location apps, making them helpful in navigating.
Your smartphone can double as a GPS when using its built-in or downloadable map apps. Apple and Google Maps are reliable sources of location data. Fortunately, you can use both with or without an internet network. If you want more reliable options, download paid third-party offline maps and use them like a GPS tracker in plotting your routes and stops. Some great examples are:
Some offline maps are free, but you rarely find one with reliable, detailed trail information. Investing in paid options is worth it if you get access to correct data. Download the map on your phone to use it internet-free. Then, save your routes or add points of interest markers before you set off on a hike. These apps also have sharing features to send your locations to loved ones. Switch to offline map viewing if you reach a point with zero service.
Photo Credit: Will Steger
An alternative for maps is a mobile compass, which is built-in on most phone models. You can also try external apps. Some of the best ones include:
These apps are free, but some may require a fee for extra features. Here are some excellent reasons to use a compass:
Another location tool to take advantage of is an altimeter. Radar and laser altimeters are widely used in planes and spacecraft to measure elevation. Use the app version to gauge your altitude when hiking. It can detect the following:
Some apps you can try are:
Photo Credit: Marie Soleil-Blais
The map, compass and altimeter are reliable tools, but technology can fail you if your phone runs out of battery or gets broken after dropping it. You don't want to get stuck in the mountains unless you intend to camp, so always bring a second or third traditional navigation tool. In addition, ensure you know how to read a map and compass. It’s one of the hiking skills to have. Backup gear provides another layer of safety and security in emergencies. Plus, they're cheap and lightweight, so carrying them won't make your backpack too heavy.
Technology makes wilderness navigation less risky yet more accessible. Use it to keep you on the right track and enjoy your time on the trails.
Jack Shaw is the senior writer for Modded, a men’s lifestyle publication. An avid outdoorsman, he’ll often find himself taking retreats out into nature to explore his environment and encourages others to do the same. His writings have been published by Duluth Pack, Trekaroo, Lehman’s and more.
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