I can't say that I've ever been truly lost. It may be the terrain I'm used to. In California and Colorado, I've done tons of solo, lightweight hiking and "lite" mountaineering. Since I always carry topo maps, it's easy to distinguish features and get your bearings. I'm sure the story is much different in the eastern and northern forests. Especially before the dawn of GPS!
The only time I ws lost (sort of) was about 20 years ago is northern Yosemite. I was backpacking with a group of 6 people including some seasoned ex-girlscouts. We were in heavy tree cover and high enough that the local peaks couldn't be seen. While everyone else argued about where we were, I sat down with the map and compass and determined where we had to be. To make a long story short, I was right and the trip ended happily. On the other hand, I've hiked with people who couldn't find their car in an empty parking lot..... it can be scary!
