Orientation When Hiking in the Mountains: A Guide to Safety

The mountains are calling! But before you set off, you should prepare well. One of the most important preparations is orientation. There may be challenges in the mountains due to darkness, fog or poor trail markings. This article provides a comprehensive guide to safely navigating the mountains.

The meaning of the topographic map

While modern technologies such as GPS and smartphones can be helpful, the topographic map remains an essential tool for mountain hikers. Unlike electronic devices, it requires no electricity and provides an overview of a large area. There are maps at different scales, with contour lines being particularly important for understanding the shape of the terrain, the direction and steepness of the slopes.

Digital support: apps and GPS

Digitalization has not stopped at mountain sports. Dedicated apps offer a variety of maps, route drawing functions and other useful features. A big advantage of digital maps is the ability to see the current position in real time. But be careful: electronic devices are dependent on electricity. It is therefore advisable to start with a full battery and, if necessary, take a power bank with you.

The role of the altimeter

In order to orient yourself in the terrain, the current altitude is a decisive factor. Altimeters are integrated into many apps and sports watches. There are two main types of altimeters: those that measure altitude via the GPS signal and those that act as barometers and calculate altitude via air pressure. Regardless of type, the altimeter should be calibrated before each tour to ensure accurate measurements.

Safety principles in the mountains

Safety should always come first. This means that you should always stay on the marked paths. The risk of falling rocks and other dangers increases when you are off the path. If you get lost, it's best to return to the last known point rather than taking risky shortcuts.

The mountains offer an experience like no other, but they also require respect and preparation. With the right orientation and the right tools you can ensure that the hike is not only beautiful but also safe.