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Shadow stick method

by Ben
(United States)

To determine a true East-West Line on a sunny day, place a stick upright in the ground. Mark the end of the shadow with a stone. Wait 15 minutes or so, then mark the end of the shadow again with another stone. Place your left heel on the second stone, with your toes pointing towards the first stone.

Your foot should be pointing due west now and if you put your right arm straight out from your side, it will be pointing due North.


Learn more about wilderness navigation, both with and without a map and compass.

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Shadow stick method

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Jul 19, 2009
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starstarstar 		Better yet
by: Shaykh Idris

Mark the path of the shadow, with or without stones, & backtrack to where the curve would be closest to the stick: this will be the Meridian altitude: thereby you will know North & South.
Partial shadow curve methods are best used along with other data.
Nov 01, 2007
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starstarstar 		Takes time
by: Jesper

I have tried this. I think you have to wait more then 15 minutes. Anyway in the backcountry you have plenty of time!

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