Navigate with Map and Compass (UCRX, 2 Units)

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 day of class is held at Black Rock, with the classroom portion taking place in the Black Rock Nature Center education room. The second day is an excursion 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.

There is a Zoom component to this class on Thursday, May 15, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM.

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.

Participants earn 2 units 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.

Instructor Misha Askren: Growing up in Southern California in the 50s and 60s there was lots of space around our houses, so I spent a lot of time outside. Throughout my life being outside has been important. I was trained as a Family Practice Physician and practiced for over 40 years, but I also was part of the Wilderness Medical society, learning new schools and practicing outdoors. For the last thirty years, I have broadened my horizons as a Wilderness Instructor with the Sierra Club and especially teaching navigation with the Sierra Club and with the Desert Institute. I am also always ready to camp out, to go off trail and discover new things.

Photo credit: NPS/Hannah Schwalbe