Getting lost is a common problem for many beginners on their outdoor adventures. "Oh, shit, I'm lost." Don't be a lost tumbleweed, my friend! Knowing how to find your way without a compass can turn a potential disaster into a story of "learning a cool new skill."

Nature's Built-in GPS

Believe it or not, Mother Nature has your back. The sun is your daytime companion: Like clockwork, it rises (usually) in the east and sets in the west. If you can figure out where the sun rises or sets, you've got east-west direction. Once you know that, north is to your left and south is to your right (remember, "left = lovely north", easy!).

DIY Sundial

Want to feel like a pro? Make a quick sundial to track the movement of the sun. Find a flat, open area and stick a sturdy wooden stick (like a trekking pole) vertically into the ground. Mark the time at which you placed the stick on the bottom (like noon). As the sun moves, the stick's shadow will rotate, too. Since the sun moves from east to west, the shadow will point west (opposite of where the sun is) in the afternoon. This trick works best on clear days, so keep that in mind.

Use the Stars to Navigate at Night

When the sun dips below the horizon, the stars become your celestial guides. The key player here is Polaris, also known as the "North Star." This bright star is almost exactly in the northern sky, so it serves as a permanent marker for where "north is."

Find the North Star

Find the Big Dipper, a famous constellation that looks like a giant spoon. Imagine a line extending from each end of the spoon's "cup." Follow this imaginary line for about five times the distance between the two stars, and you'll find the North Star. If you can't find the Big Dipper, there are other ways to find the North Star. Some stargazing apps can help you identify constellations in real time.

Moss

Moss tends to grow on the north side of trees and rocks because it receives less direct sunlight. If you're lost in the forest and see moss growing on one side of a tree, it's likely the north side.

Slopes and Snow

South-facing slopes generally receive more sunlight and tend to be drier and have less snow than north-facing slopes. This can be a helpful clue, especially in mountainous areas. These natural clues can be subtle and vary depending on the environment. Think of them as additional information, not your primary direction-finding tool.

Maps

Before you set out, grab a map of the area and familiarize yourself with the trails and landmarks. Mark your starting point and plan your route. Think of it like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but much cooler (and hopefully with fewer monsters to eat).

Use tools

When you're unsure of your location, use a combination of the sun, stars, and natural clues to determine general direction. If you have a compass, even better! Use it to confirm your conclusions from nature's navigation system.

Stay calm and assess

Being lost can be stressful, but panicking can cloud your judgment. Take a deep breath, assess your situation, and try to retrace your steps or find a landmark you recognize.