Intro to Orienteering Navigation

At this outdoor clinic, local volunteers will provide an introduction to map and compass navigation using specialized orienteering maps with standardized symbols and colours. We will discuss some of the basic navigation skills needed for orienteering, adventure running and adventure racing events. Then we'll go out on a novice orienteering course together to practise map reading and navigation techniques. We will not cover GPS skills or backcountry navigation techniques like triangulation or magnetic declination. 

​

We'll discuss:

- Understanding Orienteering maps - scale, symbols, colours, features

- Contours

- Using a Compass

- Estimating distance

- Trails, Handrails and Catching Features

- Bring your Questions!

​

This is an opportunity for newcomers and novice navigators in the South Georgian Bay area to learn or review the basics of map and compass navigation. Instruction will be aimed primarily at novice adult navigators and should be appropriate for most youth age 12+.

 

Dontgetlost Adventure Running also offers more comprehensive navigation training courses at the Beginner and Intermediate Levels using a combination of self-directed online learning, clinic handouts and guided instruction in the woods. The field portions of these courses take place in the Hamilton/Burlington area and are limited to 10 participants led by an experienced educator. If you are ready for more in-depth navigation training than we will offer at this Introductory Clinic, note that an Intermediate Navigation Clinic is taking place in Burlington on the same morning - the only date it will be offered this spring.

​

Registration

 

​​

 

 

 

 

Further details will be sent to registered participants closer to the clinic date.

 

Note: Before you participate in your first 2024 Dontgetlost event, we'll need you to read and sign our Waiver. Adults need to sign their own waivers so if you register another Adult, please ask them to read and sign for themselves.

A Parent or Guardian must sign the Waiver for any participant who will be under the age of 18 on the day of the event.

Thank you!

Adult Waiver

Minor Waiver (to be signed by a Parent or Guardian)

 

Recommended Gear

Compass (or borrow one of ours - limited quantity)

Sunscreen

Running shoes or Hiking shoes

Weather-appropriate clothing for hiking or trail running - long pants or tights recommended

Water (we'll have drinks and cookies at the end)

​

Contact

Amber Panchyshyn: southgbay.dontgetlost@gmail.com