King’s Highway 11 is more than just a road—it’s a lifeline through Ontario’s vast and untamed north. Stretching over 1,700 kilometers from just north of Toronto to the Ontario–Minnesota border near Rainy River, this legendary route cuts through some of Canada’s most remote and scenic wilderness. Portions of it even form part of the Trans-Canada Highway, making it a vital artery for adventurers, anglers, and explorers alike.
For those seeking the thrill of walleye fishing, Highway 11 offers access to countless lodges and camps—some drive-in, many fly-in only. It’s a gateway to the kind of rugged beauty that demands respect, preparation, and a healthy dose of humility.
The Day My GPS Went Rogue
On a trip to a drive-in walleye camp near Jellicoe, Ontario, I found myself behind the wheel, navigating the northern expanse with a group of friends. Everything was going smoothly—until it wasn’t.
As we approached King’s Highway 11, my GPS suddenly instructed me to turn east. But instinct—and experience—told me I needed to head west. Confused, I pulled over. One of my buddies urged me to “just trust the GPS.” But I knew better.
Fortunately, I had come prepared. Before the trip, I’d purchased a detailed map of Ontario and packed a compass. With those tools, I confirmed the GPS was wrong. I made the call to go west. My friend, skeptical, said, “If you’re wrong, you’re paying for all that gas.” I agreed—but added, “If I’m right, you’re cooking all week.”
We arrived safely. He cooked all week.
Why GPS Can Fail in Northern Ontario
The malfunction wasn’t random. Northern Ontario presents a unique set of challenges for GPS systems:
1. Remote and Rugged Terrain
• Dense forests and mountainous regions can block or reflect signals.
• Sparse infrastructure means fewer cell towers or Wi-Fi boosters to support GPS accuracy.
2. Satellite Visibility Issues
• GPS needs signals from at least four satellites. In high latitudes, satellite angles can be lower, reducing signal strength.
3. Atmospheric Interference
• Ionospheric disturbances and the Aurora Borealis can distort signals.
• Severe weather—snow, ice, cloud cover—can also degrade performance.
4. Device Limitations
• Older or basic GPS units may struggle in remote areas.
• Devices lacking support for GLONASS, Galileo, or BeiDou may be less reliable.
5. Electromagnetic Interference
• Mining operations, power lines, or even solar flares can disrupt GPS signals.
6. Software or Map Data Issues
• Outdated firmware or maps can lead to navigation errors.
• Remote regions may have limited or inaccurate mapping data.
How to Stay Found When GPS Fails
Here’s what saved me—and what can save you:
Carry a Paper Map, Compass, and Ranger Beads.
This was my ace in the hole. Road maps are great for driving, while topographic maps are ideal for wilderness travel. Bring both a highway map and a topo map, and pair them with a reliable compass. To determine distance, use ranger beads.
Learn Basic Orienteering Skills.
Knowing how to read a map, use a compass, and track distance with ranger beads can be life-saving. These skills make you independent from electronics.
Use Offline GPS Apps.
Apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, Maps.me, and Avenza Maps allow you to download maps for offline use. Always download your route before heading out.
Bring Extra Power.
Cold weather drains batteries fast. Pack a power bank or solar charger, and keep your devices insulated.
Use Satellite Communicators.
Devices like Garmin inReach, SPOT, or Zoleo offer GPS tracking and emergency SOS—even without cell service. Some even allow two-way messaging.
Plan and Memorize Your Route.
At the very least, study your route ahead of time. Note key landmarks. Leave a trip plan with someone you trust, including your route and expected return time.
Avoid Over-Reliance on Technology.
GPS is a tool—not a guarantee. Use it, but always have a backup (maps, compass, ranger beads). If you feel unsure, stop and reassess. Don’t keep moving in the wrong direction.
Ready to Learn Orienteering?
If you want to gain the confidence to navigate without relying on technology, take a hands-on course at survivalschoolmichigan.com. Learn how to use a map, compass, and ranger beads—and never get turned around again.
Safe travels—I’ll see you in the wild.