This course is limited to 12 participants.
Pre-requisite:
In order to participate in the hands-on activities of the course, you need a compass. While a compass with declination adjustment and a mirror would be easier to work with, for the purpose of this course any compass would also work.
Any topographical map of Squamish area , e.g. Canadian Top map of Squamish 92-G/11.
Both items above can be purchased from Valhalla Pure Squamish.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will:
- Be familiar with navigation tools, such as maps, compasses, altimeters, etc.
- Be familiar with topographic maps, the features that distinguish them from other types of maps, and the reasons they are ideal for backcountry navigation.
- Be familiar with the anatomy of a compass and how to choose a compass for backcountry use.
- Understand the following concepts/symbols on a topographic map:
Contour lines
Basic colour/terrain indicators
Scale
Declination
Latitude/longitude grid
UTM grid
The following concepts will be discussed in detail:
Interpreting real-life terrain features from a topographical map
Setting declination on a compass and its importance
Taking a bearing from a map
Setting a bearing onto a map
Taking a bearing in the field
Following a bearing in the field
Resection (triangulation)
Length:
Allow 2 to 3 hours depending on the participants’ background.
A ll proceeds will go to Marine Search and Rescue.
