Use moss and stars for rough direction

Step-by-step

1. 1

   In the Northern Hemisphere, look for Polaris — find the two 'pointer' stars at the end of the Big Dipper's cup and follow them to the moderately bright star at the end of the Little Dipper's handle.

2. 2

   Polaris marks true north within about 1°; face it and your right shoulder points east, your left shoulder points west.

3. 3

   By day, in dense old-growth woods, moss tends to be heavier on the shaded, damper side of trees — in temperate northern forests that's usually the north side, but check multiple trees.

4. 4

   Confirm with a second cue (sun, wind, water flow) before committing to a direction.

5. 5

   Draw an arrow on the ground pointing to your chosen bearing before you move, so you don't lose it.

Warning: Moss grows on the wettest side, not necessarily the north side. Never rely on one tree — sample many and average.