Terrain association is a backcountry navigation process by which one can navigate and determine their position using a map, by evaluating terrain features seen on the map, and matching up what you’re seeing in the field to the map. The method when used alone can be described as “approximately precise”. By orienting yourself and the map to a specific direction – north for example – that jagged peak directly to the west, the river in the valley below, combined with the small hill on your right for example – can all place your position. If you constantly use light terrain association as you hike, in terrain that is well suited for the method (example, not a featureless, dense forest), one can typically keep oneself relatively found, so long as no mistakes are made.

With practice, terrain association can become almost second nature and is something I'm always utilizing to some extent in the backcountry.

Utilizing a Terrain Association Navigation Technique

Terrain association is something to always take note of when walking in the backcountry and can become almost subconscious. One caveat to the technique however is to beware of its main downfall – one’s tendency to bend the terrain to fit the map. Using the map to navigate from point A to B, it is only human nature to always hope you’re on the right course – that the river you see is the right river, that the outcropping ahead and on your left the same you might see on the map when following the correct course. But, if it’s not right, you can terrain associate yourself right off course in no time. Thus, when using terrain association it pays to always use a decent hiking compass frequently as well to verify you’re taking the right bearing and to always be a little skeptical when navigating.

For more on Navigation, see our complete navigation guide in the PDF version of Issue 56 of TrailGroove Magazine ($10 download or all included with an active Premium Subscription).

Editor’s Note: This Jargon installment originally appeared in Issue 52 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here.