Intermediate Navigation

If you are happy with basic map reading, can follow a route along paths and tracks and would like to start to venture off the beaten track and find out what to do when the mist comes down then this is the course for you.

It does not matter if you have never used a compass before but you should have a good knowledge of map symbols and know how to plan and follow a simple route.  We run these courses in the southern Lake District, starting near Coniston and in the northern Lake District, starting near Keswick.

There will be a maximum of four participants on the course which means you can be sure of plenty of personal tuition.

We will teach you how to:

• Devise a strategy for a navigational stage and to break it down into ‘coarse’ and ‘fine’ navigation.
• How to use ‘tick’ features on route to check you are going in the right direction.
• How to take and follow a compass bearing.
• Understand contour features.
• Judge distance accurately on the map and on the ground using pacing and timing.
• Plan a safe walk or route taking into account the weather forecast and current access legislation.
• Employ simple relocation strategies when lost.
• Use a compass to check the direction of footpaths or other linear features.
• Take a 6 figure grid reference for any given position and also locate  a grid reference on the map.
• How to call out Mountain Rescue in an emergency situation.

You will need to bring:

• Enough clothes to keep you warm and dry in all weathers. (Jeans are not suitable for outdoor activities.)
• Waterproof clothing (Jacket and trousers)
• Walking boots
• Lunch and drinks
• Ordnance Survey Map 1:25 000
• Digital Watch with a stopwatch
• Pen and paper
• Compass with a 1:25,000 scale on base plate
• Reading glasses or a magnifying glass if you think it will be necessary for you to see very fine detail on the map.

Other Information

• There will be no more than four participants per instructor.
• Accommodation and travel are not provided.
• The course runs from 09:30 to around 16:30.