Identifying Ridges Saddles Valleys And Drainages

Ridges, saddles, valleys, and drainages are fundamental terrain features that shape the experience of long distance hiking. Understanding how they appear on maps and in the landscape helps hikers choose routes, anticipate effort, and manage exposure to wind, storms, and temperature changes.

Ridges are elongated areas of higher ground that typically have lower terrain on both sides. They can serve as natural pathways, offering views and sometimes drier footing. At the same time, they may be more exposed to wind, lightning, and weather, which influences when and how they are used.

Saddles are low points between two higher areas, often used as passes between drainages. On a map, they appear where contour lines dip between peaks or high points. These locations frequently become key route decisions, as they connect one side of a ridge system to another.

Valleys and drainages are areas where water flows during storms and snowmelt. They can provide more sheltered travel corridors and may host trails, vegetation, and water sources. However, they can also be prone to flooding, dense brush, or avalanche paths depending on the region.

By recognizing how these features work together, hikers can anticipate where trails are more likely to be located, where alternate routes might be feasible, and where potential hazards could be concentrated. This understanding supports both on-trail navigation and off-trail route finding.