Wilderness Navigation with GPS

Explore the essential gear, techniques, and strategies to help you stay safe and make the most of your wilderness adventures.

This is a leisurely activity - less than 2 miles with little or 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 up in the Sierras and Joshua Tree. Misha has also traveled around the world, hiking and exploring.

Mastering wilderness navigation is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience, whether embarking on a day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip. This navigation course will explore the essential gear, techniques, and strategies for staying safe and maximizing wilderness adventures. All participants will need to bring their phones with a downloaded app ahead of time. You may also bring a tablet or laptop if you want a bigger screen for the classroom component. Depending on the route, you will be hiking roughly 2-3 miles on ground level and potentially rock scrambling. Please wear proper hiking attire, a hat, and sunscreen, and bring at least 2-3 liters of water minimum. We will have breaks and lunch, so bring some food and snacks! 

Photo credit: Misha Askren, Desert Institute Instructor