COURSE OUTLINE​​

• Refresh Mountain Navigation

We begin by grounding the key principles of effective mountain navigation and setting expectations for the standard required at ML level.  We will revisit map orientation, improving contour interpretation, and refining compass use so it becomes fluid. 

• Applying navigation in real terrain

As the terrain becomes more complex, you’ll work through a series of practical navigation challenges where you are required to make decisions. The emphasis here is on consistency - building strategies to reliably navigate in a mountain environment.

• Relocation Strategies 

Looking at structured relocation exercises designed to build confidence when things don’t go exactly to plan.

• Assessment-Style Navigation and Decision Making

Shifting the focus towards independence and performance under pressure. After a short recap, you’ll begin working through navigation tasks with reduced instruction. You’ll be expected to plan and execute routes more independently.

• Navigation in reduced visibility

A key part of the day involves navigating in more challenging conditions where visual references are limited. This is where strong foundational skills are put into practice, using bearings, pacing, and contour interpretation to maintain accuracy. The aim is to build confidence in situations where conditions deteriorate and navigation becomes more demanding.

• Mountain Leader-style scenarios

The course moves into full scenario-based navigation. You’ll work through longer, more complex routes that require planning, judgement, and adaptability — closely reflecting the decision-making expected when leading groups in the mountains. These exercises are designed to replicate real ML-style thinking: not just “can you navigate here?” but “can you lead safely and efficiently through this terrain?”

• Final debrief and development focus

We finish the course with a detailed debrief, reviewing performance across both days. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your strengths, areas to develop, and how your navigation aligns with Mountain Leader expectations.

​

​

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• Full days on the hill (approx. 6–8 hours)

• Variable weather and visibility conditions

• Continuous navigation decision-making

• Navigation on multiple scale maps 

• Independent and small-group navigation tasks

• Instructor feedback in real time

• Scenario-based leadership questions

• ML-style assessment conditions (but supportive and coached)

You will not be “led” around the hills — you will be actively navigating for most of the course.

This is deliberate. It reflects the standard required at assessment level.

​​