Description

This course equips you with essential skills to confidently navigate any terrain using a military-grade lensatic compass and topographic map. You’ll learn how to track your present location, determine distances, associate terrain features with maps, and plan safe, practical routes. The course covers key navigation techniques, including azimuth bearings, map orientation, and contour line interpretation, ensuring you never lose your way. Whether you’re a hiker, outdoor enthusiast, or preparing for tactical operations, this hands-on training will build your confidence to navigate off the beaten path with precision.

Objectives

• Land navigation fundamentals

• Lensatic compass use

• Topographic map reading

• Azimuth bearing navigation

• Terrain feature association

• Map orientation techniques

• Azimuth conversion skills

• Distance measurement

• Terrain feature identification

• Compass sighting techniques

• Low-visibility navigation

• Error correction

• Field application exercises

• Pace Count

• Map care and storage

Requirements

• Long Pants / Long Sleeve Shirt / Close toed shoes or boots

• Extra socks

• Eye protection

• Sunscreen, hat, and weather-appropriate gear

• Compass

• Bug Spray

• Water source (2qt minimum)

• Backpack

• Pen and notepad

• Lunch, snacks

Notes

You will be walking around in wooded areas with brush and fallen trees, so the requirements above are the bare minimum equipment needed to have an enjoyable training day. You’re welcome to bring additional comfort items, but please keep your walking pack weight below 35 lbs so you can stay focused on the training.