I don't know where "Out West" you are planning to hike, but most of the places we go are pretty simple to navigate. there are trails, and maps for almost all the hikes. And for many locations there are signs at the junctions.

True, you can choose to wander off and around, but I imagine you could do that on the SHT, too.

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Check our our website: http://www.backpackthesierra.com/

Or just read a good mystery novel set in the Sierra; https://www.amazon.com/Danger-Falling-Rocks-Paul-Wagner/dp/0984884963