Navigation Course

Have you ever paused on a trail, wondering how much farther you have to go or what lies beyond that ridge? If you're planning a hike, using maps and navigation tools is essential for a stress-free experience and allows you to explore new adventures with confidence.

Do you need to choose between traditional navigation methods and modern technology, or can you use both? If so, how, when, and why?

While today's precise satellite-based technologies are incredibly useful, what happens if your device fails, you lose signal, or your battery dies? It’s crucial to know how to get back to basics with a map and compass.

This course will teach you the fundamentals of map and compass navigation and guide you through the digital landscape, offering insights into the best navigation apps tailored to your needs.

Topics Covered:

• How to Read and Use a Map.

• Map Elements (scale, grid reference, legends).

• Map Grid System (Latitude and Longitude, UTM).

• Declination & Bearings.

• How to Measure Distance on the Map.

• How to Measure Altitude on the Map.

• Compass Use.

• Navigation Aid Systems (GPS, Beacons and Phones).

• Navigation Aid Systems (Use and Limitations).

• Digital Tools and Apps (Pro and Cons, New 3D Apps).

• Data (How to use it, store it and share it).

• How to Plan using digital tools.

• How to Travel using digital tools.

• Planning a Route (Difficulties, Main Hazards).

• Calculating Travel Time.

• Connecting Maps and Apps.

• Travelling and keeping track of time and place.

• How to find yourself.

• Identifying map features in the terrain.

• Managing the terrain.

The Map & Compass Program include:

• Professional ACMG Mountain Guide.

• Safety equipment: Bear Spray, Communication Device, First Aid Kit.

• Navigation Skills Booklet.

• Reading material and educational tools.

The Map & Compass Program does not include:

• Transportation / Meals

You Will Need to bring:

• A compass with adjustable declination. (Ex. Suunto MCB NH, Suunto M-3 NH or Silva Ranger S)

• A 1:50.000 map of the Course area. (Such as Canmore and Kananaskis Village Gem Trek)

• A day pack to carry your gear, extra layers, lunch/snacks, and water.

• Sturdy shoes.

• Long pants.

• A light small tarp to sit on the ground. (Optional)

Program:

• Full-Day (8 Hours – Beginning at 830am)

• Location: Kananaskis / Canmore

• Cost: $170.00 + GST per person.

• Minimum Group Size 4 - Maximum Group Size 8.

 *** If you have a private group this program can be run in Calgary, Kananaskis, Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper.

Additional information

Please keep in mind that prior to to heading out for our navigation skills program all participants are required to read and agree to waiver terms and conditions prior to booking completion. A copy of which can be found paramount-guides.com/waivers