Spring is the season to hit the trails and scope out existing or new hideaways.  I use this time to find new camping spots, fishing holes, and stay on the look out for any new/existing hunting areas.
During this time vegetation is just beginning to bloom and visibility of what winter may or may have not changed or altered the landscape can be seen. 

This in mind, when venturing to known areas you should be aware that the landscape may have changed, such as downed trees, fallen rocks, downed man made structures, and the change in the physical features of lakes and rivers.  If you are searching for a hunting spot keep an eye out for both the type of game that you are going to be hunting and also the supply of food that is in the area to feed them; this knowledge can be invaluable to a hunter.  Likewise if you are a fisherman take one day and walk by your fishing holes and check for the changes, especially if your into fly fishing where the winter can dramatically change the rivers physical features.

When scoping out the landscape  I would suggest bringing a pair of binoculars and a digital camera.  Binoculars are great to look ahead so that you don't have to cover certain distances that are unneeded by foot.  A digital camera is great for those who want to take a (real) picture of the land area.  Maps are great, but real time up to the date photos will give the best information of an area that most maps on a computer can give.

Some other ideas to think of when scoping out your new or existing spot is to bring something to mark the area such as chalk, colored string, or anything else that can help you find your way back when the vegetation is in full bloom, or when you get your way back this fall.  Certain landmarks such as the largest tree, tree that is a weird shape, a large rock (or rock formation), anything that may be unusual for the landscape that sticks out.   Please do not use anything that will harm habitat. 


Cheers!