Navigating with Map & Compass

This class will teach participants how to get around with a map and compass, avoid getting lost, and get there and back without the assistance of GPS or multiple phone apps, which don't always work.

This is a leisurely activity — fewer than 2 miles with little to no elevation gain; shade and seating may be available.

Misha Askren has been a wilderness educator for several years, focusing mostly on teaching navigation with maps and compasses. He has led many trips to California during that time, especially in the Sierras and Joshua Tree. Misha has also traveled around the world, hiking and exploring.

Detailed program overview:

a. Gain comfort in reading and interpreting topographic maps of the area.

b. Become familiar with the parts of a compass and how to use the compass to take bearings.

c. Use the compass with the map to find where you are and how to get from one point to another (off-trail).

d. Become familiar with different coordinate systems, such as latitude/longitude and UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator).

e. Practice all of the skills in the field on a walkabout, including finding caches.

All participants must bring a compass — specifically, a compass with an adjustable declination and a sighting mirror. Suunto MC-2 and Silva Ranger are optimal choices. A pencil, clipboard, and ruler (non-metal) are also needed. Topographic maps and UTM calculators will be provided. Additionally, participants must bring the usual supplies for any desert outing: snacks and lunch, closed-toe shoes, hats, sun protection including sunglasses, 3 liters of water, and a daypack.

The total hiking distance is about 2 miles on Saturday and 3 to 4 miles on Sunday, depending on where we go. Since we will be off-trail, some short stretches of easy rock scrambling may occur. Above all, everyone should enjoy and have fun.

Photo credit: NPS Photo/Carmen Aurrecoechea