Essentials of Navigation Course

If you long to venture into the wilderness but you're not confident that you can find your way, this course will teach you the essential navigation skills to ensure your safety.

Located in a forest near Melbourne and Geelong, the hands-on workshop style programme includes a morning of lessons and practical activities followed by a challenging afternoon navigation exercise in which to hone your skills. This is the ideal course for anyone looking to increase their navigation abilities for outdoor pursuits such as hiking, trail running, backcountry skiing, mountain biking and adventure racing.

Journeying off the beaten path can be both daunting and dangerous if you lack the navigation skills needed to guarantee your return. Although they are fantastic tools, GPS and other devices cannot be relied upon as the sole means of finding your way.

This course will teach you the fundamental skills to navigate confidently with a map and compass, so you can enjoy the wonderful rewards that await those willing to explore the wilderness.

The course includes instruction from guide(s) with a lifetime of experience navigating in remote wilderness areas around the world, explaining all of the essentials of how to navigate with a map and compass. We operate with a low student to instructor ratio to optimize learning outcomes.

Topics include:

  • Identifying features of the environment

  • Reading a map - understanding the topography and technical information

  • Using a map and compass to plan and follow a route

  • Techniques for not getting lost and regaining your location

  • Communicating location in an emergency

  • Navigating in difficult conditions and challenging terrain

  • Basics of GPS

  • “ Their knowledge of the subject matter was outstanding, and the course provided a great balance between theory and practical, with great structure to ensure learning and retention. ”
    — Jack H (Eltham)
  • “ The knowledge, patience, non-judgemental nature, and humour of the guides, combined with the practical step by step nature of the day was a real win. ”
    — Michala S (Clifton Hill)
  • “ Great course! ”
    — Warren S (Point Cook)
  • “ I would highly recommend this. Clear and concise instruction delivered at a steady pace in a great location. ”
    — Matt S (Surrey Hills)
  • “ In very capable hands and the pace was just right. ”
    — Kerry A (Golden Square)
  • “ Thanks for the fantastic day. Really informative and practical, learnt that navigation is more than a compass and map. ”
    — Mike H (Teesdale)
  • “ Thanks for a great course! ”
    — David E (South Yarra)

Dates: Saturday 11 May 2024 (FINAL PLACES REMAINING). Saturday 1 June (NEW COURSE JUST ANNOUNCED).
Private courses: Contact us to arrange a custom booking.
Location:  You Yangs Regional Park, Victoria, Australia (about 1 hour drive from Melbourne or Geelong).
Duration: One day (9:00am to 4:30pm).
Inclusions:  Maps, compasses, first aid and safety equipment provided for the day.
Cost: $249 per person.
Gift certificates: Valid for 3 years for use on future courses (subject to availability of places). Click here to order gift certificates.

Book now using our secure online booking system, or contact us for more information.

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