B.C. Orienteering

You're taken by the woods even though you're aware
Of the slippery cliffs
And the big black bears,
And the salal snares taller than yourself;
Ferns growing as thick as the trees.
You're looking for a flag at the top of the hill.
It's a race against the light.

And one false step could mean staying the night.
That's why you should never travel alone.

No, you should never travel alone.
And you know that 'cause just one false step,
And you might not make it home.

And so you watch for loose rocks under your feet,
Stepping onto wet stones, crossing over creeks,
Climbing up cliffs; over dead trees,
You watch your step.
You get your footing right.

And a broken compass could mean staying the night,
And that's why you should always know where you're going.

And even if you've got a map,
You should always know where you're going.
And you know that, 'cause even if you've got a map,
You might not make it home.

You take your time just to breathe the air
And appreciate
having never met a bear.
You capture the flag at the top of the hill
With daylight to spare.

Orienteering comes naturally.
You read the map right.

One wrong turn could mean staying the night,
And though you carry your phone...

Even if you've got a map
And you know where you're going,
You're still a long way from your home.

And even if you've got a map,
You should never travel alone.
And you know that...

But you're not dead yet,
And you might just make it home.