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Tips for Hiking Oahu's Backyard
Chapter 6: Getting LostIF YOU GET LOST, don't panic. First of all, you're NOT (lost)!You might be off the trail, but you're certainly still on an island. In the worst case scenario, you just aim in one direction (downhill, preferably) and keep on hiking - you'll eventually hit civilization: a road, a house, etc. Of course, you'd rather return on the same trail else you might end up miles away from where you started from. Relax, assess your situation, and create a plan of action! Consider the following: Are you really lost or has the trail just become overgrown and obscure? Will you take your back-track option or move forward in the hopes of connecting with the trail later on? Do you have enough sunlight left or is it safer to stay put for the night? (In other words, do you want to climb rocks/ridges with just a flashlight?) Don't go further if you have doubts about where you are - you can always return some other day armed with more information. Start off by figuring out where you came from and establish your back-track option. If you're on a discernable ridge, swath, or footpath, it should be no problem to back-track it back to a recognizable trail. If you're definitely off the beaten path, estimate how many minutes it's been since you last saw something resembling a trail and what direction that's in. And, was that the correct trail? If you're completely stymied and in a situation where visibility is low such as in a valley, you may need to rise above the canopy by heading part-way up a hill or ridge to get your bearings. Remember: downstream or downhill is usually the answer if you absolutely have no other. Of course, a lot of this can be avoided by having a topographic map, compass, and a vigilant observation throughout the duration of your hike. Most importantly, know your limitations and have the courage to confess to yourself! My rule is simple: I don't call 9-1-1 unless I have an injury serious enough that I wouldn't be able to hobble out on my own. I'd rather call home and let them know I'll be late so that THEY won't call 9-1-1 either.
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