How to find direction without a compass
The shadow stick method
Though rescue experts suggest you should stay put and wait to be found when lost, there are times when medical necessity or a faint hope of being found means you’ll want to get moving. With any luck you will have a hunch as to whether salvation lies north, south, east or west. During a sunny day, ideally around noon, you can determine direction using the shadow stick method.
Prop up a straight stick (at least three feet long) so it stands vertically and casts a shadow on a flat, smooth area.
Mark shadow of the stick
Mark the end point of its shadow with a small stone.
Wait for the sun
Wait half an hour while the shadow travels due to the movement of the sun.
Mark the shadow
Mark the new endpoint of the shadow with a second stone.
Mark the direction
Draw a line between the two stones. This line will point from west to east, with the second stone you placed being the eastern terminus.
