Field reference

Outdoor Glossary

Plain-language definitions of the outdoor terms used across KnowOutdoor.

Browse terms

3 terms

Each card gives the short definition. Open the term for field use, limits, examples, and related decisions.

Navigation trail blazepaint blaze

A painted or attached marker placed on a tree, post, rock, or structure to identify an established trail route.

Navigation rock cairntrail cairn

A deliberately arranged pile of stones that may mark an approved route where a visible trail or blaze is difficult to maintain.

Trail design switchback turnzig-zag trail

A constructed trail turn that reverses direction across a slope so the route gains or loses elevation at a more manageable grade.