How to orient yourself in the mountains without GPS

The first thing we have to be clear about is that if something has to go wrong, it will go wrong. As you know, nature is treacherous and can change your plans in a matter of minutes, so it is better to ally yourself with it. We can rely on an artificial orientation, relying on instruments created by man or on a natural orientation relying on, as its name suggests, the natural environment.



In today's technological world, we have all become "overdependent" on the mobile phone that does everything. Smartphones have made life easier for all of us, there is no doubt about that, they help us in our daily lives, but they are still machines that can also fail, right? That's why we are going to give some small tips on what to do if we run out of GPS in the mountains, because although it may seem like a lie, very few mountaineers come out with these tips into account.


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1. Mental scheme of the area we are going to visit

The first thing we must do and no less important is to try to memorize with a map the area we are going to ride. Study the map as if you were taking final exams, each color and each point is important, the roads, the valleys, rivers...etc. in short, the route and the environment.



Do not depend on other mountaineers that you may encounter on the mountain, because they may not be there when you are expecting them. We must be prepared! And of course, take the map with you.

2. Always carry a compass with you

It sounds cliché, but it will save you from a bad experience. This small instrument that marks magnetic north is known by everyone and it costs nothing to get one or carry it in your backpack for these cases.



Even without the map it is super useful. Remember that you must keep it away from any metallic element and its Its use is by placing it on a flat base such as your hand.

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3. Take a reading of the landscape you are traveling through

The landscape is not going to move from where it is, so it is advisable to take as reference natural points such as trees, bushes, rocks, etc.



We say as a reference, because for example on a day of dense fog or poor visibility, you will barely be able to see a few meters in front of you.

4. Be guided by sounds and other clues

As a last alternative, your ear can help you more than you think. Unconsciously you will be listening to sounds and noises throughout your tour through the mountain. In the moment of confusion you will remember them and you will know where they come from, which together with the visual memory will tell you the approximate point to which you have to go.



As always, it is highly recommended to stay calm and think. There is no point in losing your nerve and starting to walk uncontrollably because it can be much worse.