If you are going out into the wilderness, whether with a group or alone, learning to use the latest technology to keep you from getting lost is of paramount importance and can save the lives of others or your own.
Delinda will teach you how to use your GPS device to navigate in the wilderness, whether a smart phone, an actual GPS unit, or both. The course includes two classroom sessions where you will learn about and how to most effectively set up and use your devices, followed by a field session where you will get to experience the practical application of your devices by navigating through a fun, navigation treasure hunt.
You will learn the following:
how to use and understand a dedicated hand-held GPS device, including programming it so that it is easily accessible and easy to use;
how to use GPS on your smartphone, including installing and setting up Gaia and/or CAL Topo (GPS mapping apps);
about Lat-Long and UTM;
what a waypoint is and how to mark, enter, use and navigate to one;
the most effective use of the GPS pointer;
how to use the compass feature on a GPS most effectively;
how to create a track, follow a track, and use the track-back feature;
setting a hiking course via phone or computer;
printing a map; and
how SAR Lock works.
We recommend bringing the following gear to experience this course to its fullest:
good hiking shoes that are already broken in;
clothing layers—NO COTTON!—that can be added or removed, depending on weather changes;
a small day pack that will hold plenty of water, snacks, and your extra layers;
a smartphone, (ideally with a working stylus, which is best but not required)
a dedicated GPS device (optional, but very helpful);
a computer (optional, but very helpful);
something with which to secure your device(s), e.g., a tether cord/small carabiner attached to the device (preferred) or a zippered pocket; and
notepad and paper.
Those who love outdoor recreating such as hiking, trail running, mushroom hunting, exploring, snow shoeing/back country skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, climbing, and more can benefit greatly from this course.
