1 day
mountain navigation course
A 1 day, intro to mountain to navigation course. Through a mixture of theory and practical we will cover map reading skills and develop fundamental navigation techniques in mountainous terrain.
This course is delivered by mountain professionals and the syllabus has been designed by the LDM team
1 DAY COURSE
PRICES:£70pp
This is a mountain navigation course that can run with up to 6 people per instructor.
This introduction to navigation course is a foundational course designed to help people navigate effectively in the outdoors. It emphasises hands-on, practical learning in a controlled environment, ensuring participants leave with the ability to find their way in hill, moorland and mountain terrain.
The day will based in High Borrowdale, meeting at Honister Slate Mine, in the cafe at this location for briefings and course background before we cover some navigation theory and head out for a journey around Grey Knotts, Brandreth, Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike, to put all skills into practice and develop our navigation techniques.
The day will be in mountainous terrain, heading up onto the summits of Brandreth and Grey Knotts. Here we will be on mountain and fell paths and tracks, rough ground, bog and grass with some short but steep uphill and downhill sections.
The journey is normally around 8km.
COURSE OUTLINE
Theory Session
Map choices, legend, scales and symbols
Understanding the Map
Features, contours & topography and grid references
Map Reading Skills
Orientating the map, feature association, recognising prominent landmarks,
Orienteering and Journey Planning
Measuring distances and forming solid strategies, relaying information from map to ground with pacing and timing
Compass Basics
The compass, its features and basic usage
Practical Navigation Exercises
Participants practice their navigation skills in a controlled outdoor setting with an emphasis on using maps, compasses, and orienteering techniques appropriate to the terrain travelled
Intro to GPS
Looking at appropriate apps and technology, whats recommended and what should be avoided
SKILLS COVERED
Choosing a map and map types
Grid references
Orientating the map
4 D's of navigation
Measuring distances
Timings
Navigating via linear features such as paths, walls and streams
Developing hand railing techniques
Basic contour interpretation
Intro to GPS
BY THE END OF THE COURSE, YOU CAN EXPECT TO:
Be more confident in basic navigation techniques such as direction, distance, duration and description of the terrain and its features,
Be knowledgable about maps and which maps are appropriate to your journey and terrain operating,
Use the correct technology and GPS apps,
Understand pacing and timings to estimate distance travelled
WHY CHOOSE US?
Expert Instructors:
Our course is led by experienced navigators with a deep understanding of map and compass skills. They are dedicated to providing high-quality instruction and ensuring each participant gains a solid foundation in navigation.
Comprehensive Curriculum:
Our course covers all essential aspects of navigation, from map reading and compass use to terrain association, helping you develop solid strategies. Participants will leave with a greater understanding of how to find their way in the outdoors.
Practical Application:
We believe in hands-on learning. Our course includes extensive practical exercises and outdoor navigation scenarios, allowing participants to immediately apply what they've learned in real-world situations.
Small Group Sizes:
We maintain small class sizes to ensure focussed attention and ample opportunity for questions, discussions, and where possible one-on-one guidance.
Positive Learning Environment:
We foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment where participants can feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and building confidence in their navigation abilities.
Proven Track Record:
Our navigation course has a track record of success, with many satisfied participants who have gone on to confidently navigate in a variety of outdoor settings. Their testimonials speak to the effectiveness of our instruction.
2024 dates
Course Ratios
Pre-Requisites
Equipment
Venue
Hire our Lake District Mountaineering instructors for private and tailored programmes.
Suited to your goals & ambitions to make the most of YOUR time in the mountains.
Just ask for a bespoke navigation day when contacting us!
Day rates:
1:1 £195
1:2 £220
1:3 £250
4 or more: £70pp
CONTACT
We look forward to hearing from you and working towards your mountaineering ambitions and helping to achieve your goals.
Phone or WhatsApp:
07458353048
If calls are missed we will respond when possible, please leave a voicemail or text message where possible.
Thank you