Hiking trails managed by trail clubs are usually marked. Although individual variations do exist, the usual marker is a white rectangle, 15 cm high and 5 cm wide, painted on trees or fence posts beside the trail. There may also be small signs marking the trail and distance. Usually as you hike the trail, the markers face you, and if the path ahead is not obvious, another marker is visible from the first. A double marker (one above the other) indicates a turn. Usually the upper marker is offset in the new direction of travel; otherwise, look for the next single marker to either the left or the right.

If by chance you lose the footpath, simply return the way you came to find the previous marker. From here you should be able to relocate the trail and your route.

Whenever you are hiking or walking, particularly on an unfamiliar or poorly blazed trail, it's always a good idea to carry a compass with you, in case you lose the trail and get lost. Learn how to use the compass first, and remember to orient yourself before you set out on the trail (also study the trail map and, if you're with a group, discuss the common direction you would all head towards if you lose the trail). Of course, if you are fortunate enough to have a GPS (Global Positioning System) navigation device getting lost is less likely - but it's still a good idea to carry and know how to use a compass in case your batteries run out!