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• Compass.
➜ How it helps you navigate: A compass may seem outdated in this time of high-tech devices, but it's still one of the most useful tools when navigating in the backcountry. A compass will point to magnetic north, which is very close to true north. Using a compass will give you a sense of direction while on the trail. Some compasses also offer scales that will tell you how far you need to travel, once you've established a starting and ending point.

➜ How to use it: To use a compass, place it on the map so its long edge connects your starting point to your destination point. Then turn the rotating capsule until the north-south indicator lines at the bottom of the compass capsule match the direction of the lines showing north-south on the map.

Holding the compass in front of you, turn your body so the north-south arrow on the compass capsule lines up with the magnetic needle. The red end of the needle should point in the same direction as the arrow. The directional arrows point in the direction you need to go.

If you get lost or disoriented on the trail, orient the compass with your map, using the trailhead where you began as your destination, and follow that direction back.

➜ Downside: Compasses can be rendered inaccurate if they are near cars or trucks, power lines, some watches, and gun barrels.

➜ Buying tips: Compasses are available from outdoor stores, such as REI and Cabala's, and online. The Compass Store is one excellent online source. Riders who participate in Competitive Mounted Orienteering use lightweight compasses made from clear plastic. These compasses can easily be laid flat on top of a topo map to give you a sense of direction. The compass will indicate magnetic north, so you can orient your map before you start your

ride. These are the best types of compasses for trail riders.

• GPS unit.
➜ How it helps you navigate: A GPS unit uses installed software along with earth-orbiting satellites to tell you where you're located along the trail. It can be programmed to give you your route ahead of time, get you back on track when you are lost, and get you back home. It can also tell you how many miles you've ridden, and how many more you have to go before you reach your destination.

GPS units are incredible tools for trail riders, especially for those conditioning horses or riding in the backcountry. The unit works as your guide, showing you where you are and where you're going. If you get lost, you can program the unit to take you back to your starting point. All you do is follow the directions it gives you.

➜ How to use it: Each GPS unit works a little differently, so you'll have to read the instructions that come with your particular one. Essentially, you'll first load the unit with software that contains maps of the area where you plan to ride. Then you'll program in your destination, and ask the unit to start navigating. The unit will give you directions to your destination from the point of origin. It'll also show you the route on a map, along with your current position as you proceed.

➜ Downside: GPS units run on batteries, which can die out on the trail, making spares necessary. They're also prone to software crashes and glitches, so carry a compass and topo map as backups when using a GPS unit.

➜ Buying tips: Look for a GPS unit designed specifically for recreational use. And invest in one with a modern, high-sensitivity receiver; GPS units rely on satellites for information on where you're located at any given moment. A good receiver will make it easier for your unit to locate satellites in a timely manner. You also need a unit with a good topo map display, so it's easy to read.

Jack Yeazel, one of the authors of GPSInformation.net, recommends trail riders try the Colorado, a new model from Garmin, a top manufacturer of recreational GPS units. "The shaded contour lines in the topo maps make knowing where you are much easier than a map without them," he says. "They can also warn you of difficult terrain and streams along your route."

Some units clip onto your belt or saddle, while others fit around your wrist like a watch. Whichever GPS unit you buy, be sure it comes with the topo maps you need. You can always add software containing additional maps, but this will cost you more money.

With good route planning and the proper navigational tools, your backcountry treks can be near-perfect.

And isn't that the goal of every trail rider?