Basic Navigation
Being able to navigate effectively through remote terrain is an essential skill when exploring. I often hear people say, "I don't need to, as my phone/GPS does it for me," which is true to some extent. With technology advancing and battery life improving, not having these trusty companions in your pocket can be reckless. We also carry them, although not as our primary navigation tool. Knowing basic navigation can get you out of trouble if your battery dies or you wander off route. But for us, it's a tool we use to explore the more interesting places.
Getting off the beaten track is what excites both of us. We are both mountain professionals and instruct navigation on a weekly basis. This blog won't delve deeply into everything but will serve as a guide on where to start. So let's begin.
The best way to explain navigation is like having a toolbox full of tools. Depending on the situation, you'll need to pull out the right tools from your box. On a clear day, when doing a simple route, you may only need a couple of tools. But on a day with poor weather, you may need to bring out the more advanced tools to complete the job.
Starting point/relocation
The way I do this is by collecting evidence, much like a lawyer in a court case gathering evidence for a conviction. The more evidence you collect, the more likely a conviction. So, how does this relate to finding where you are on a map? The first thing I do is look around and think about what I can see(evidence) that will help me locate myself on this map, such as roads, walls, buildings, and ground relief (contours).
Top tip: The more familiar you become with maps and ground relief, the easier this becomes, as ground relief (contours) never change, but man-made things can.
The 4 D’s
What are the 4 D's? I use these for my journey to ensure I don't end up lost. If I do get lost, it's easier to relocate myself and get back on track. It's worth noting that on my route, I will have defined destinations to navigate to, and I use the 4 D's to reach each location. Depending on conditions, the distance between these destinations varies. In good weather, they could be farther apart, while in poorer conditions, they could be closer together. These segments are known as legs. I have these in place so I don't have to memorize the full journey, keeping things simple.
Distance
How far am I going from the start of the leg to the end? This can be measured on the map using a compass, a piece of string, or even eyeballing for a rough idea. Depending on the map you're using, the size of a grid square varies, so knowing the scale of the map helps.
Once you know how far you need to go, how do you measure that while walking? There are two methods. The first one is called pacing, which involves counting how many steps it takes you to walk 100m and then continuing (there are plenty of YouTube videos on how to do this). The second method is using timings, which works by averaging. For example, if you are walking 1km and your speed is 4kmph, then it should take you 15 minutes. If, like me, your maths isn't the best, I have included a link to timing cards under this section.
Top Tip: When pacing and timing, the terrain can alter how many paces you take and how long it can take, so practice on various terrains. This takes practice to become efficient.
Direction
Which way am I going? If you don't set off in the right direction, you'll never reach your destination. This can be as simple as "look, I can see where I need to go, so just head towards it," or a more complex skill like taking a bearing when you can't see your destination. There are loads of videos on YouTube for this.
Top Tip: Orienting your map will help determine which direction you need to go. To do this, align the north needle on your compass with north on your map.
Description
What will I see on my journey? The more detail in your description, the easier it is to realise if you have gone wrong. By examining the map, I will look for what I am going to pass on my journey, such as buildings, rivers, and ground relief (contours). Once on my journey, seeing the things I am supposed to see gives me a warm feeling inside, knowing I am going the right way.
Top Tip: In remote areas, you won't have the luxury of man-made objects, so understanding contours is essential. Am I supposed to be going uphill or downhill? Is it steep or flatter? Just remember, in the mountains, in terms of navigating, contours are your best friend as they never change.
Destination
What will I see? This might seem obvious, but knowing what you are looking for when you get there is essential; otherwise, you will never find it.
Top Tip: By putting a feature in place beyond your destination aids you in knowing you have gone too far. These are known as backstops. I like to call them "oh crap" points, as I usually say, "oh crap, I've gone too far."
Although this blog doesn't delve deeply into every skill, it aims to help you begin filling your navigation toolbox and encourages you to explore the wonderful art of map reading. By doing so, it opens up a world of new adventures and possibilities.
We offer customised navigation courses in North Wales. Feel free to reach out, and we'll be happy to assist you we are both trained leaders.
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