Staying Found—Map and Compass Navigation

August 19, 2023

Cincinnati Nature Center Rowe Woods

9am – 1pm

Details

• Instructor – Nancy Ball, CAO of Summit Trek & Travel
• Saturday, August 19, 9:00am to 1:00pm. Rain or shine.
• Location –Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, Tealtown Road. (Exact location provided upon paid registration.) Class will be primarily conducted OUTSIDE.
• Cost – $50/person
• Registration deadline – August 5
• Class size is limited to 12 participants.
• Signed liability waiver is required with registration.

Click HERE for registration form and payment instructions.

When I ask people what their biggest concerns are when it comes to hiking and backpacking, one of the most frequent responses I hear is, “I’m afraid of getting lost.” This class will help you gain the confidence you need to keep that fear from limiting your adventures!!

What will this class cover?

The heart of this class is focused on map and compass navigation. Learn:

• Reading a topo map
  • Understanding contour lines, scale, legend, latitude and longitude, grid lines, and more
  • Using a map to plan your route
  • Where to find trail maps
• Using a compass
  • Understanding parts of a compass
  • Cardinal and ordinal directions, headings/bearings/declination
  • Using the compass with a map to orient yourself
• Practice
  • Setting a bearing
  • Following a set of coordinates
  • Using map and compass to navigate to a given destination
  • A compass will be provided for those who need one – details with paid registration

The class will also cover other practices to help you safely navigate trails and backcountry locations:

• Staying found – How to keep yourself oriented so that you don’t need to get un-lost!
• Navigating without a compass – What clues in your natural surroundings will help you keep your direction.
• What to do if you lose your way – Stuff happens. What to do when you realize you’ve lost your direction.