Re: Using a Topo Map in the Woods

You have asked a very good question. One that has been answered well. These are just my thoughts thrown into the mix. I hope it all works out well for you.

Rdavis makes good points about natural features and preplanning.
Preplanning works very well. Read-reading the map-over and over till you can see features, and can plan your route according to the natural features. You will also memorize these features so that when you are in the field(woods) you should remember that the creek/river to your right side has a little crook/kink in it. That feature alone can help you to find yourself on the map. As for cliffs, steep hillsides, or better yet, steep hillsides with a little hollow or irregular shape these also can show you where you are.

Remember, if you can not see terrain features, you have to move to or along the features until you can find yourself.

The more information you gather the better and easier it will be to find yourself on the map. You may not be able to get the pinpoint accuracy we all want but you can always work to tighten the accuracy from here.

If you are not sure of what you are doing, start in a large neighborhood park and start to look at the land differently. Say to yourself that you want to move a cart by yourself through the woods. I know it sounds corny. You will very quickly start to look at the woods in a different light. You will start to see features as I want to go there, or I want to avoid that. Even if you avoid all the places they can help to identify your position on a map.

This is a skill that takes time to develop.
Even in Canada the Topo’s are not quite up to today’s date in recording information.