Every year, thousands of hikers head into the wild to experience the thrill of exploring untouched landscapes. But here’s a reality check: more than a dozen hikers go missing in the U.S. every day. And most of the time, it’s because they veer off marked trails. If you’re like me and enjoy the challenge of venturing off the beaten path, you know it’s not something to take lightly. Let me share some tried-and-true tips to help you stay safe out there.
Plan Like Your Life Depends on It
I never head out without a solid plan. Before any off-trail hike, I spend time with maps and satellite images, plotting my route and identifying landmarks I can use along the way. Once I’ve got my plan, I make sure someone back home knows exactly where I’m going and when to expect me back. This is non-negotiable, especially if you’re hiking solo—there’s no room for “winging it” when no one’s got your back out there.
Pack like you mean business. My go-to gear includes plenty of water, high-calorie snacks, and a survival kit. But what’s really saved me more than once is knowing the basics: how to build a quick shelter, signal for help, or start a fire. You never plan to get stuck, but you’ve got to be ready if things go south.
Navigation Is Your Lifeline
As much as I love tech, I never rely on it alone. my Garmin GPS is a great resource to have, but batteries die and signals vanish when you least expect it. That’s why I always bring a map and compass. If you’re not comfortable using them yet, do yourself a favor and learn. A buddy taught me years ago, and it’s been a skill I’ve leaned on countless times.
Pro tip: mark your progress on your map as you hike. Note landmarks, water sources, or anything unique along the way. I also snap quick photos of anything notable, like a funky-looking tree or a split in the trail. It’s like leaving breadcrumbs for yourself, but way more reliable.
Be Obsessed with Details
One thing I’ve learned? Details matter. Pay attention to your surroundings and pick out landmarks—a jagged boulder, a stand of tall pines, or even the way a creek curves. But don’t just rely on memory. Make notes, take photos, or jot down details in a notebook. It’s easy to lose track of things when everything starts to look the same.
A trick I like to use is creating mental “checkpoints.” If I pass something noticeable, I’ll stop and mentally place myself on the map. It keeps me grounded and makes it easier to retrace my steps if I need to.
Signs of Human Activity Can Be Clues
Even off-trail, you’re rarely the first person to walk through the area. Look for signs like footprints, old campfire rings, or even trash (unfortunately, not everyone packs out their waste). I’ve stumbled on a candy wrapper or two in my time, and while it’s frustrating, it’s also reassuring to know someone else has been there.
Just be cautious about footprints—if you see tracks heading back the way they came, it might mean whoever left them hit a dead end. It’s a subtle reminder to trust your navigation tools and instincts over someone else’s mistakes.
STOP If You Get Lost
If you ever feel that gut-dropping moment of realizing you’re lost, remember the STOP method: Stop, Think, Observe, Plan. Don’t panic and start wandering aimlessly—that’s a surefire way to make things worse. Instead, take a deep breath and use the tools you brought. Refer to your map, compass, and any notes or photos you’ve made. If you can, retrace your steps back to your last known checkpoint.
If you really can’t find your way, don’t wait too long to call for help. I always carry a Garmin inReach Mini for areas with no cell service. It’s worth the investment if you’re serious about hiking off-trail because it connects you to emergency services no matter where you are.
*This article was created with the assistance of AI.
