Backpacker Magazine – October 2007

Quiz: Would You Survive?

The wilderness can be deadly if you don't know what you're doing. Take our test to rate your survival IQ—and learn a few skills that might save your hide.

by: Steve Howe

1. Halfway into a weeklong hike in Glacier National Park, you and your buddy have lost the trail. What's your next move?
A) Shortcut cross-country back toward the path, to avoid wasting daylight.
B) Retrace your steps to your last known landmark.
C) Stop, pitch your tent, and start signaling for help.
D) Climb to the top of the highest nearby peak to get a better view.

2. You have a cell phone and five bars. Which of the following are legitimate reasons to call for rescue? (Choose all that apply)
A) You're lost on day 2 of a 5-day backpack.
B) You fell 15 feet, got knocked out, then woke up woozy and confused.
C) Your hiking companion dislocated his shoulder. It's back in now, and pretty sore, but it works OK.
D) Just before dark, your 6-year-old brother wandered away from camp. You can't find him, and rain has started falling.
E) Your new boyfriend was showing off when he pitched over a cliff with a full pack. He's conscious, but his lower leg is crooked and he's squealing in pain.

3. It's day 8 of your thru-hike of southern Utah's 812-mile Hayduke Trail, your water bottles are empty, and the map doesn't show any springs on this high plateau. Now what?
A) Drink any urine you produce.
B) Rest in the shade, then retrace your steps to the last available water once the sun goes down.
C) Find a creekbed and start digging.
You'll find the water table soon.
D) Follow a cattle trail; it will always lead to water.

4. You're ready for the first rappel into a technical slot canyon, but the anchors mentioned in the route description aren't there. Is this a problem?
A) No. Rap on using something else as an anchor, but make sure your cell phone is charged in case anything goes wrong.
B) Not really. But first, check your bolt kit to be certain you have enough anchors to pound in wherever you might need them, and find a good spot to establish the start of your own route.
C) Yes. Retrace your route until you find the anchors.

5. True or false? Hypothermia can be a risk in temps above 55°F.

6. True or false? You can use your analog watch as a compass.

7. You're hiking in the Grand Canyon in 95°F temps, and you've been drinking so much water your belly's sloshing. Still, you feel weak and tired. What will help?
A) Eat a salty snack, take electrolyte tablets, and sip an energy drink.
B) Nibble on some candy to keep your energy up.
C) Keep drinking—it's tough to stay hydrated in heat this severe.
D) Rest in the shade with your feet above your heart.

8. You're scrambling up a steep Colorado Fourteener in June. The moves are fairly easy, but it's snowier than you expected, and you don't have an ice axe or crampons. You should:
A) Keep going for a few pitches to check out the route, then retreat if it seems too tough.
B) Go for it. The snow will soften in the sun as the day progresses, making the descent considerably safer.
C) Glissade back down.
D) Retreat via the least snowy, least technical route you can find.