How to best use sunlight for navigation in the wilderness?

Understanding the Sun’s Position

The sun rises in the east and sets in the west, making morning and evening the best times to use sunlight for navigation. During these times, the sun’s shadow is longest and most directional, making it easier to determine the cardinal directions. At noon, the sun is directly overhead, but its shadow is shortest and less directional.

Using Shadows to Determine Direction

To use shadows for navigation, find a straight stick or branch and mark the end of the shadow with a small rock. Wait for about 15-20 minutes, and then mark the new end of the shadow. Draw a line between the two marks. This line will be approximately south-north. The end of the shadow that moves is the south end. Repeat this process at a different time of day to confirm the direction.

Using the Sun’s Position to Determine Direction

Another method for using sunlight for navigation is to observe the position of the sun at different times of day. In the northern hemisphere, the sun is in the southeast quadrant of the sky at sunrise and in the southwest quadrant at sunset. In the southern hemisphere, the sun is in the northeast quadrant at sunrise and in the northwest quadrant at sunset. By observing the sun’s position and the direction of its shadows, a person can accurately determine their direction and navigate.