Mountain Navigation Adventures

Description:

Introductory Mountain Navigation Course in Snowdonia - Ideal for Beginners

If you're new to mountain navigation or have some basic experience, our Introductory Mountain Navigation Course is perfect for you. This one-day practical Snowdonia navigation course is designed to introduce you to the essential skills needed for exploring the hills and mountains of the UK. Aimed at beginners looking to embark on self-guided hikes, this course provides an excellent foundation in navigation, helping you navigate safely and confidently in the mountains of Wales and beyond.

Why is Mountain Navigation Important?

One of the leading causes of mountain incidents and rescue callouts is poor navigation. Our hiking navigation course is tailored to ensure you have the skills to prevent getting lost and to safely explore the stunning uplands of the UK. Don’t let navigation errors leave you vulnerable—this course equips you with the knowledge you need to stay safe while hiking or mountaineering in Wales and the rest of the UK.

Who Should Attend This Course?

This Introductory Mountain Navigation Course is ideal for complete beginners or those with limited experience in mountain navigation. If you’re keen to start hiking and exploring the iconic UK summits, this course will help you gain confidence in self-navigation. It is particularly well-suited for beginners who want to enjoy the well-trodden paths of popular hiking routes and understand the fundamentals of mountaineering in Wales.

Course Overview - What You Will Learn

This mountain navigation course is primarily practical, with the majority of time spent outdoors. However, we’ll also spend some time in the classroom to cover essential theory, including:

• The use of maps, grid references, scales, and rights of way.
• Navigating with a compass, setting the map, and checking directions.
• Understanding different map scales such as 1:25,000, 1:50,000, and 1:40,000 (Ordnance Survey and Harveys).
• Orientating the map using topography and compass.
• Grid references and using 5Ds (Distance, Duration, Description, Direction, Dangers).
• Following linear features like paths, streams, and wood blocks.
• Pacing and timing, including Naismith’s Rule.
• Basic contour interpretation and map-to-ground/ground-to-map techniques.
• Relocation procedures if you get lost.
• Fitness Requirements for the Course
• The emphasis of this course is on navigation rather than fitness. We don’t cover large distances, and the routes are designed to focus on developing your mountain navigation skills without requiring significant elevation gains. Our venues are chosen for their rich features within relatively small areas, allowing you to concentrate on honing your skills in navigating the hills, without the physical exhaustion!

Essential Equipment for the Hiking Navigation Course

For the course, you’ll need to be equipped for a full day out in the mountains. Here’s the suggested kit list:

• Rucksack (25-35 litres)
• Hiking boots with good grip (for rock, grass, and mud)
• Waterproof jacket and overtrousers (Goretex or similar)
• Hiking/trekking trousers (not jeans or cotton)
• Base layer top (synthetic/merino, not cotton)
• Warm fleece jacket or softshell
• Spare warm layer
• Warm hat and gloves
• Watch
• Food & drink for the day
• Emergency survival bag (polythene is fine)

We will provide the maps and compasses.

By the end of this navigation course in the UK, you'll have gained the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently navigate in the hills and mountains, ensuring your safety as you explore the great outdoors.

Ready to Learn Mountain Navigation?

If you’re ready to start your journey in mountaineering in Wales or are looking for expert mountain navigation courses in the UK, book your place on our course today!

Location:

Snowdonia, North Wales.

Duration:

1 day.

£45.00 per day.

Experience Required:

None required.

18+ (unless parent/guardian present then min. approx 8 yrs).

We will provide maps and compasses.

Please contact Gradient Adventure

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