COURSE DESCRIPTION

“Maps encourage boldness. They’re like cryptic love letters. They make anything seem possible” – Mark Jenkins, “To Timbuktu”

Afraid of getting lost in the woods? Does the thought of using a map and compass stress you out? Let us help you banish that fear and uncertainty! Our Land Navigation 101 course will teach you how to use these basic tools to plot courses into the backcountry, and how to plot courses back out again.

This 30 hour class focuses on understanding the topographical map, orienteering and lensatic compasses, and using them together to navigate cross country. We will discuss the topographical map in detail including the legend or key, terrain features, contour lines and relief shading, grid lines, UTM coordinates, protractors, along with the function and use of orienteering and lensatic compasses. Once we understand the tools of the trade we will discuss how to plan routes, using terrain for navigation, safety bearings and using the compass to shoot azimuths and bearings. This class focuses on the understanding of terrain and terrain association to navigate. Our 1100 acres of land offers a wide variety of terrain and every topographical feature! We are very hands-on in this class and will be frequently doing short hikes around the property to understand the association with contour lines and topography as well as hands on training with the map and compass. You will plot predesignated points on the map and then use the tools to go out and find those points. Also covered is measuring distance on a map, taking your natural pace and risk management/mitigation.

The ability to go off-trail with confidence opens up a whole new world of areas to explore. Hunters know that often the best game hides deep in the woods where the trails don’t go, and the fishing is always better at remote lakes and streams. Many of the best vistas are known only to locals and those with the skill and spirit to find them.

Course Objectives

• Be able to understand the interpretation and use of topographical maps
• Use and selection of compasses
• Terrain identification and navigation
• Using back azimuths and triangulation to determine your location
• Route planning
• Navigation using dead reckoning, terrain association
• Safety bearings, backstops and guide rails
• Night navigation
• Upon completion of this course, students will be able to navigate confidently through the wilderness with map, compass, and protractor. This is an excellent course for hunters, hikers, military and search and rescue.