Sienna Fry – Backcountry Navigation

Even in today’s high-tech world, your smartphone will only get you so far. Learn how to never get lost via BACKPACKER’s Backcountry Navigation online course.
Sienna Fry – Backcountry Navigation
In this 7-part course, you’ll learn how to use a map and compass, how to plan a route, how to use GPS and digital maps, and how to confidently travel into the wilderness knowing you have the tools to get back home safely. People can get lost anywhere, which is why navigation skills are critical whether you’re on or off trail.
You’ll learn how to be self-sufficient in the backcountry, so you never get lost on an adventure. BACKPACKER and the Colorado Outward Bound School have developed this course to teach you: How to read a map and use your compass, how to triangulate your position, how to navigate in different types of terrain, and how to enhance trip planning and routefinding with digital devices like GPS units.
How this Course Works
We’ve designed this course to be taken at your own pace. You’ll be able to take (and retake) each section for as long as you want. Once you purchase the course, the lessons are yours forever.
Intro: Why People Get Lost
Section 1: Reading Maps

Types of Maps
Map Features
Distance
Contour lines
Matching map to landscape
Orienting a map
Latitude/longitude and UTM

Section 2: Using a Compass

Parts of a compass
Taking a bearing on a map
Taking a bearing on a landmark
Triangulation
Declination

Section 3: Route Planning

Calculating distance and travel times
Elevation gain/loss
Group dynamics
Identifying landmarks and bailouts
Map revisions
Special terrain challenges
Real world examples

Section 4: Digital Devices

Understanding GPS
Choosing a unit/software
Smartphone apps
Marking waypoints
Managing tracks
Emergency devices
Digital maps

Section 5: On- and Off-Trail Travel

Staying found
Identifying trail signs
What to do if you lose the trail
Using natural features as guides
Navigating from landmark to landmark
Navigating around obstacles
Choosing the right terrain

Section 6: Special Navigation Challenges

Low visibility
Winter
Desert

Section 7: Getting Unlost

What to do if you’re lost
Finding north
Backtracking
Helping rescuers