Learn how to navigate the vast landscape of the California desert with your map and compass. Empower your outdoor exploration, whether you’re taking a day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip. This field class covers the essential gear, techniques, and strategies of old-school navigation.

The first half of this class is held at the Rattlesnake Room, and the second half of the day will be spent in Joshua Tree National Park.
This beginner-friendly activity is suitable for ages 12 and older.
Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required.
Participants earn 2 units toward a Desert Ecology & Conservation Certificate (see below).
Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is included in the cost of enrollment.
No meals or equipment are provided.

Activity level: This class is moderate. It requires less than 5 miles of walking with limited elevation gain on somewhat variable terrain and/or more than one hour outdoors in the elements.

Required items for participants:

Participants will need to bring a compass — specifically, a compass with an adjustable declination and a sighting mirror. Suunto MC-2 and Silva Ranger are two that are optimal
Wear proper hiking attire/hat/sunscreen
Water, at least 2-3 liters minimum
Food and snacks
Compass is needed
Ruler is needed (non0metal)
Daypack to carry your personal belongings
Notebook and pencil
DI will provide clipboards

Participants earn 1 unit toward a Desert Ecology & Conservation Certificate. Eligible Desert Institute classes can be taken for fun or for credit toward a certificate. To earn the certificate, you must complete 12 units of eligible classes within three years. We offer a variety of classes each season! The certificate is available through UCR Extension. You do not need to be a current student in any academic program to earn the certificate. Units do not contribute to any academic degree.

Any other pertinent information: This is a one-day course with a class component followed by a few hours in Joshua Tree National Park. Participants will caravan into the park after the class component is finished. Park Pass is included. We will provide clipboards.

Meet your instructor: Misha Askren has spent the last 25 years as a wilderness instructor with the Sierra Club, with an emphasis on teaching navigation. As a Sierra Club leader, he leads trips throughout California. He prefers to be outside, even if it’s only tending his garden in the city. This love of nature has rubbed off on his children and grandchildren, who also love being outdoors and always ask to go camping or hiking when they visit.

Photo credit: NPS/Hannah Schwalbe