Basic map and compass skills are essential to safe backcountry travel.  Many people rely solely on their smartphones for navigation when enjoying their favorite activity.  But what do you do when your smartphone dies?  In this course, TSAR will teach you the essential skills to ground navigation using a map and compass.  These skills can be used in conjunction with your smartphone or GPS to effectively and safely travel in the backcountry.  We will use our expertise from years of experience in backcountry rescue to facilitate a fun and exciting class that will keep you safe in the backcountry. 

The course will include (but is not limited to) the following skills:
   

• Basics of reading a map
• Basics of using a compass
• Using a map and compass together
• Effective and efficient navigation techniques
• Using a map and compass with your favorite smartphone navigation app

Students will have a comprehensive understanding of backcountry navigation.  They will be able to navigate safely and efficiently in the backcountry without the worry of getting lost or losing their intended route. Students will also be able to effectively communicate their location to Search and Rescue should they be in a situation where rescue is required.

This course will consist of a three (3) hour classroom session, followed by an eight (8) hour field session.  You must be prepared to hike in easy/moderate terrain for the field portion of the course.

This course will serve students who spend any time in the backcountry, who wish to improve their skills in backcountry navigation, and who wish to improve their margin of error and increase their overall backcountry safety.

Maximum Participants = 10 Students