Navigation Course Level 2

Practice, practice, practice.

The only way we can improve our map and compass navigation skills, where reading map-to-ground comes naturally and the different methods of using a compass are front-of-mind, is through practice – actually getting out there and doing it.

Leading on from the 2 day Introduction to Navigation course, we’ll start the weekend by spending a couple of hours refreshing our memory on the theory we covered in that course, before throwing on our daypacks and heading out into the incredible Blue Mountains National Park (different location from Introduction to Navigation course).

In the afternoon, we’ll return to where we started, where we will plan and develop an off-track (primarily) route plan for day 2, before enjoying a self-supported car-camp together (with Caro).

Day 2 will be dedicated to carrying out our route plan, discovering this part of the national park, through route finding, discussing navigational decisions in a dynamic environment, along with opportunities to practice triangulation and other methods of compass use… all whilst holding fast to our foundations of reading the ground, making wise decisions and walking with the land.

What’s included?

Small group size – maximum 8
Lunch on both days
Printed topographic map sections (waterproof paper)
15% discount off purchase of Caro’s book How to Navigate
Group first aid kit (your instructor is qualified in Remote Area First Aid)
Qualified instructor(s). 1-2 depending on number of participants.

What do I need to provide?

Accommodation: we will be car-camping together, so you’ll need to bring your standard overnight camping kit and be self-sufficient (eg. tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, cooking stove, food for dinner, breakfast and snacks). Check out this downloadable packing list for tips.
Transport to and from the field location. This is along a windy, dirt road, but is suitable for 2WD vehicles. Let us know when booking if you would like us to provide you transport.
Camp chair
Water for cooking and overnight
Meals outside of training hours (ie. dinner, breakfast)
Snacks
Water for 2 days hiking (1.5L minimum – more in hot weather)
Day backpack adequate to carry your lunch, water, snacks, own medications
Hiking/bushwalking clothes and worn-in footwear appropriate for the bush, eg. boots or trail-runners/walking shoes
Hat and sunscreen