If you are a beginner, or are in need of a refresher, then this is the perfect place to start learning to use a map and compass.
From our anonymous course evaluation
Our Basic Land Navigation course teaches the fundamentals of land navigation. You will learn the basics, like parts of the compass, how to read a standard topographic map, understand declination, as well as how to use related tools, equipment, and resources. Then, we will set off into the fields and woods to put your knowledge to use in an active and hands-on way so that you start to become comfortable setting bearings, translating terrain features, and dead-reckoning between checkpoints.
Basic Land Navigation dovetails with our Advanced Land Navigation which many clients take together in the same weekend. That’s because it typically takes two days to cover the essentials of using a map and compass. If you register for both courses in the same weekend, you’ll receive a 10% discount (see below for details).
Here is an overview of the program:
- Start / End Times: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Fee: $135 per person
- Location: Hartwood Acres County Park (roughly 15 miles north of Downtown Pittsburgh with easy access from the Pennsylvania Turnpike).
- Maximum Group Size: 8
- Minimum Group Size: The course requires a minimum of four persons to run this training. If we are unable to meet this size, True North will fully refund your payment with as much advance notice as possible.
- Minimum Age: Children 15-17 years old are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian. In our private courses, there is no set age requirement as it depends on the specific group’s needs and goals.
- Description of the Level of Physical Difficulty – Easy to Moderate: This course involves walking over varying distances at a steady pace over varying terrain that will include off-trail sections, rough spots, unexpected obstacles, and low to steep inclines and declines. This course is conducted in varying weather conditions, including hot, cold, humid, rain, and snow. This course is best suited for those in good physical condition.
- Discount: You can receive a 10% discount off the standard fee when you register for both Basic Land Navigation AND Advanced Land Navigation in the same weekend. Just enter x2 in the coupon code box when booking.
Check Out these Answers to Commonly Asked Questions
What happens when I register? One of our instructors will personally follow up with you regarding your contact information, basic medical information (for safety purposes), and our waiver. Then we will send you a detailed course information sheet which will contain all of the applicable details, like required and recommended gear, exact gathering point, general driving directions. For an overview of the gear list now, check it out further down.
Can I register for your Basic Land Navigation and Advanced Land Navigation courses in the same weekend? Yes, many clients take these two courses back-to-back.
Do you run this course for private groups? Yes, just contact us for information and details.
Are bathroom facilities available? Bathroom facilities are available at this location.
What kind of gear do I need to bring? True North will provide all of the needed training supplies, including maps and compasses.
Course equipment list – Click to enlarge.
If you would like a better sense of what additional gear that you need to bring on the course, or optional gear to consider, then check out the equipment list that will be included with the course information sheet (just “click” on the image to enlarge) when you register.
However, since one of our course goals is to teach you about various gear, plus offer you a chance to “test drive” it before you buy it, if you don’t have an item, don’t necessarily feel compelled to buy it right away … especially if it’s expensive. Instead, contact us to see if we can loan you an item or make a recommendation for purchase.