I'm not sure if it's innate exactly or that due to my scouting/camping/hiking at an early age it was something that was drilled in to me?

When I was in upstate NY it was a matter of knowing where Lake Ontario was in relation to my position. It was almost like a compass. Even today, you can put me down anywhere in eastern upstate NY and I can tell you in a matter of seconds which direction the lake is in.

Otherwise it's just simple observation and knowing the location you're in. Sun position can help, landmarks and such....I don't know, it's just something I am constantly aware of...and it's very disconcerting if I can't figure it out.