Learn Map Reading and Navigation with Peak Navigation Courses

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Learn Map Reading and Navigation with Peak Navigation Courses

Silva Type 4 Compass
Being able to map read and navigate well is not only a means to keeping safe on your walks but is fun too!  It’s great being set free from guide books and have the ability to plan your own walks.

Peak Navigation Courses run a range of courses from those suitable for absolute beginners through to “ Navigation Master Classes” aimed at providing a testing day with useful revision for those already expert. There is something for everyone!




Most courses are 1 day courses, usually on a Saturday or Sunday and there is scope for progression through the courses.

1st Steps to Map Reading and Navigation Course

The 1st Steps to Map Reading and Navigation Courses is a good foundation level course that goes through the basics of map reading and how to use a compass. The day starts with a classroom session then progresses to a short walk through fields before lunch.  During lunch we plan a route to cross open moorland and then spend most of the afternoon walking the route. A final classroom session brings the day to its conclusion.

Introduction to Moorland Navigation Course
The Introduction to Moorland Navigation Course is aimed at people who already have experience of map reading  and have some walking experience but want to progress to walking over more difficult terrain where the use of the compass is an essential skill.  This courses teaches route planning and how to use a compass along with the various strategies for  navigating using a compass over open moorland.

The Intermediate Moorland Navigation Course is designed as a progression for those who have already attended the Introduction to Moorland Navigation or 1st Steps course though if you are an experienced walker with a knowledge of how to use a compass then it is possible to join this course.  This is a practical day spent navigating on the moors pacing on compass bearings to locate various "hard" features including aircraft wrecks and interpret the contour features.  There is an emphasis on “micro navigation” with pacing along compass bearings, looking at strategies for navigation and crossing difficult terrain.

Night Navigation Course
The poor visibility navigation course sets out to look at the strategies required either when the mist comes down or if you are out after dark (by choice or by accident). A short 3 to 4 hour practical session suitable for experienced walkers who have an idea of how to use a compass (though you don’t have to be an expert).

Peak Navigation Courses also provide National Navigation Awards. The Silver NNAS can be achieved by attending both the 1st Steps and Introduction to Moorland Navigation Courses (along with an additional route planning exercise).  The Gold NNAS courses is a dedicated 2 day course based in the Lake District.



Peak Navigation Courses are also able to offer bespoke navigation tuition for individuals or groups.

Peak Navigation Courses are Fun!!

Mike and Jane who run Peak Navigation Courses are both International Mountain Leaders and have each been hill walking for over 40 years.


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