Orienteering for Beginners: Map & Compass Basics in RMNP

This course is intended for the recreational hiker who has little or no experience reading a topographic map or working with a compass. Learn about map sources, map vintage, next generation U.S. topo maps by U.S.G.S. and map symbology. Learn to read contour lines, recognize landforms, calculate percent and angle of slope and become familiar with compass components, compass bearings and correcting for magnetic declination. More topics include overland navigation via map and compass and triangulation. The class will combine indoor instruction with outdoor practice at a nearby location. (All materials provided, with compasses available for loan)  

Meets at the Field Institute

Instructor: Peggy Ellis