Map & Compass Guide For Hiking In The Adirondacks / Lake George Region

Map-and-compass basics:

1. Remember: The compass needle always points north.
2. Rotate your compass until the needle points to the 0-360/N point.
3. Place the compass on the ground, keeping the needle in that direction.
4. Place your map next to it.
5. Rotate the map until its north side (or the “north” arrow) also faces north. (On most maps, the top faces north.)
6. When you determine the appropriate direction by using the map, take note of the bearing (degree-number on the compass), and walk to the farthest-away landmark (tree, rock, etc.) in that direction.
7. Repeat steps 2 and 6 until you reach your destination.

For some helpful area maps, check out these resources:

“The Adirondacks: The Lake George Region” (Plinth, Quoin & Cornice Associates; Keene valley, NY 12943) is a wide-area topographical map that gives an accurate “feel” for the entire region. It is available locally in most outdoor-activities stores.

Maps, trail guides, books, and brochures aids are helpful and readily available. One good source is the Adirondack Mountain Club Headquarters (518/668-4447; www.adk.org) at 810 Goggins Road, Lake George, NY 12845. From I-87, get off at exit #21, head away from Lake George for a short distance, and make a sharp left turn at Goggins Road. The Club’s free brochure, “Walks in the Lake George Region,” describes several non-strenuous hikes.

Much useful and interesting information is available at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (EnCon)’s website: (www.dec.state.ny.us). Lake George is located in Warren County, District 5. EnCon’s excellent guide “Trails in the Lake George Region” is available at its regional office (Golf Course Road, Warrensburg, NY 12885; 518/ 623-1200) and at most area Chambers of Commerce. Call or write.

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