You can see a lot from your trails, but sometimes the best places are stumbled upon by accident. Get off the beaten path and explore your woodlot with the help of a map, compass, GPS unit, or smart phone.
This 12-minute video reviews the parts of a compass and map and explains how to use these tools to navigate through the woods.
There are hundreds of compass models out there. This guide from outdoor supplier REI explains the different kinds of compasses and their features to help you pick the right one for you.
Similar to the compass guide, this REI article gives tips on choosing a handheld GPS unit. It includes a description of features, discusses the role of smartphones in outdoor navigation, and includes a video with more information.
If you have a lot of trails, you might not know where all of them are or how they connect to one another. Make a map of your trails to learn what you have and make your hikes easier.
Free aerial photos and topographic maps can reveal a lot about your property, and a simple hike can turn into a natural history lesson when you can read the woods.
Hiking is likely the most common way you’ll experience your woodlot. Learn about essential items to bring to make your hike a safe, enjoyable time.
Almost all wildlife encounters that end in human injury or death are caused by human actions. Protect yourself by knowing what to do when a wild animal gets too close.