Hike Like a PRO with These Topo Map Basics!

[@panhandlejake6200]

Definitely a good overview. This should have also included basic map orientation and direction finding. I was on a canoe trip and was a little careless with map reading which resulted in taking the wrong route. Did recover with about a mile of extra paddling. In reviewing my mistake, I realized that if I had just oriented the map properly, I would have chosen the correct turn.

[@steveobrien9801]

Great vid، nicely explained😊

[@AaronGrayOutdoors]

Being able to read topo maps is such an important skill for any hiker. Without this knowledge, you are almost walking blind. Good video.

[@mowsertas]

Totally agree, it's crucial to know your way around a map!

[@michaelbutler1557]

I agree. Depending on technology without having analogue map reading, compass based navigation is extremely foolish. I have had technology from good quality companies fail for example a Garmin GPS just turning itself off during a critical navigation traverse during a professional search. Itv turned itself off. Could never be restarted and was replaced by the manufacturer.

[@michaelbutler1557]

A very good video that explains topographic maps and their features well. An old term that we used to refer to the use of rivers, streams etc. as a guide in the way that you described as ‘hand railing’. MB.

[@GuidoHatsizz]

@@michaelbutler1557 👍👍👍

[@mowsertas]

Thanks! That's a great way to describe it, MB.

[@michaelbutler1557]

Great video Mowser.

[@TomatoKetchup1000]

one of the best info channels , thx alot Mowser !

[@mowsertas]

Wow, thanks!

[@ervinslens]

Fantastic episode man, so beautifully put together and elaborated! Bravo 👏👏👏

[@mowsertas]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@adrianfairfield5520]

Great work. There really many levels of map knowledge to be gained. Understanding how these are prepared and the information used is also helpful. Awareness of when the maps can be wrong and not blindly accepting all the information on a map. There are certain features that you would have high levels of confidence in and others like the man made features and tracks less so. Most topo maps in Tas have been made using aerial imagery and stereoscope which is great but has its limitations. 1:25 000 maps are no longer being updated which is a shame but there are many other products.

[@mowsertas]

Thank you for your insightful comment! You're absolutely right-map knowledge is crucial, and understanding its limitations can really enhance our navigation skills.

[@altbinhax]

Yes, printed maps are becoming expensive to produce and digital services are substituting by allowing you to select an area and download - like QTopo. I like the professionally printed maps from Tasmaps.

[@Midimoho]

Thank you for this video. I am just now trying to learn this and you had a great explanation. I’d be interested in more videos like this.

[@mowsertas]

Thanks for the feedback! I'm planning more videos on navigating with maps and compasses!

[@marksmith9667]

Top vid M. What are your hiking plans/goals for 2025?

[@mowsertas]

Great question! First is to get my entire family down the overland track. Next, knock off 20 Abels for the year to put me in striking distance to complete them in 2026. Other than that get in lots of overnighters. You?

[@marksmith9667]

@@mowsertas None planned and 2025 is filling up fast.

[@wobblysauce]

Some routes do not count the elevation into the distance. Going up to ridgelines and watching the changes in scenery is great. Going over a 'How to fold a topographic map' would be a good video, makes them more useful especially the big maps like old newspapers, I do the cut making it easier to follow the path in smaller quadrants and store it in the pocket.

[@mowsertas]

Good point! I'll try to cover map folding in a future video!

[@woolleytom]

Another awesome video

[@mowsertas]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ericbrabander]

What about the use of the compass with the topo map ?

[@mowsertas]

That's a whole video in itself. Coming soon!

[@gnmurray5955]

On GPS watches, I have recently upgraded from a Garmin Fenix 5X to an AMOLED Fenix 8 which is pretty phenomenol in its performance, especially with Talky Toaster maps loaded. I think the biggest trap for new walkers is relying on a phone for nav, it's a trap and should always be backed up by a more reliable alternative.

[@mowsertas]

Totally agree, it's good to have a backup! Especially in the outdoors.

[@stigfloberghagenphotography]

Nice 🙂👍

[@abefrancis4137]

Nice hat

[@amonster8mymother]

I'm trying to use my new macbook pro to watch you on youtubr and it's not slowing the video right I been watching you on the phone and i have the macbook out but you look cut off in full screen. What's the problem???

[@mowsertas]

It sounds like there might be an issue with the video settings on your MacBook. Try adjusting the resolution or checking the display settings to see if that helps!

[@amonster8mymother]

@mowsertas ok I'll let you know.

[@amonster8mymother]

Maybe you are too tall to be on yourtube?