Carolina Preparedness — Practical Field Training

Wilderness Survival

Map Reading and Land Navigation

A one-day land navigation course using a topographic map and a handheld compass.

In a world that leans heavily on GPS and phones, the ability to navigate with a paper map and a compass is a rare and valuable skill. This one-day course walks through the fundamentals so you can plan a route, follow it, and find your way when the batteries are dead.

What you'll learn

  • Reading and understanding topographic maps
  • Using a handheld orienteering compass
  • Navigating with map and compass together
  • Plotting and navigating with UTM grid coordinates
  • Using triangulation to locate yourself on a map
  • Measuring distance on a map and while hiking (pace count)
  • Basic aidless navigation techniques

What to bring

  • Handheld orienteering compass
  • Sturdy footwear and clothing for the weather
  • Water and a snack
  • Notebook and pen