What to do if you get lost in the mountains: the steps that can save you

Almost all rescues of disoriented hikers have something in common: the person realised something was wrong, but kept walking in the hope of “finding the path”. An hour later they were farther away, more tired and had less daylight.

Getting lost is not, in itself, an emergency. What you do next can turn it into one.

Step 1: the STOP method

It is a mnemonic widely used in mountain training:

• S — Stop. Stop as soon as you are unsure. Do not keep going “to see what happens”.
• T — Think. When were you last sure of your position? How long ago was that? What resources do you have?
• O — Observe. Look at your surroundings, the map, the track on your phone, the position of the sun. Check the time and how many hours of daylight are left.
• P — Plan. Decide calmly: retrace your steps, wait or call for help.

Drink something and eat a little. Fatigue and low blood sugar make decisions worse.

Step 2: can I get back safely?

Going back the way you came to the last known point is usually the best option if:

• You know which way you came.
• You have enough daylight and energy.
• The terrain is safe.

Do not improvise shortcuts or descend over unknown ground: many accidents happen when people try to go down gullies or steep slopes. Navigation techniques without GPS will help here: review them in this guide.

Step 3: ask for help in time

Call emergency services (112 in Europe) if:

• You do not know how to get back.
• Someone is injured, exhausted or cold.
• Night is approaching or the weather is getting worse.

Calling early is not overreacting. A rescue in daylight and good weather is faster, safer and has more options.

When you call:

1. Say you are in the mountains and how many people you are.
2. Explain where you started, which route you were doing and what you remember seeing.
3. If your phone allows it, share your location or read out the coordinates from a map app.
4. Describe the condition of the people and the gear you have.
5. Do not move without telling the emergency services.

Then save battery: switch to airplane mode and turn it back on at the agreed times or if asked to.

Step 4: if you have to wait

• Stay in a spot that is visible from the air and from the ground, but sheltered from the wind and possible rockfall.
• Put on all your clothes before you get cold. Insulate yourself from the ground with your backpack, dry branches or a mat.
• Use your emergency blanket if you have one.
• Make yourself visible: brightly coloured clothing spread out, a headlamp on at night, a whistle (three blasts is a recognised distress signal).
• Keep the group together.

If you have to spend the night

It is hard, but survivable if you prepare:

• Look for natural shelter from the wind, but not a hollow where cold air or water collects.
• Share body heat with the rest of the group.
• Ration water and food, but do not get dehydrated.
• Move your toes and fingers regularly.

The right clothing makes all the difference: review how to dress in layers.

Prevention: what reduces getting lost

• Always tell someone your route and your return time.
• Download the map for offline use and carry a power bank.
• Look back at junctions so you recognise the way back.
• Set a turnaround time.
• If fog comes in or the weather worsens, turn back before you lose your bearings.

And remember: no map or app replaces caution. Turning back in time is the most effective navigation technique there is.