Introduction to Map and Compass

This course is limited to 12 participants.

Pre-requisite: In order to participate in the hands-on activities of the course, you need a compass. While a compass with declination adjustment and a mirror would be easier to work with, for the purpose of this course any compass would also work. Any topographical map of Squamish area , e.g. Canadian Top map of Squamish 92-G/11.

Both items above can be purchased from Valhalla Pure Squamish.

Learning Objectives: By the end of the session, participants will:

- Be familiar with navigation tools, such as maps, compasses, altimeters, etc.

- Be familiar with topographic maps, the features that distinguish them from other types of maps, and the reasons they are ideal for backcountry navigation.

- Be familiar with the anatomy of a compass and how to choose a compass for backcountry use.

- Understand the following concepts/symbols on a topographic map:  Contour lines  Basic colour/terrain indicators  Scale  Declination  Latitude/longitude grid  UTM grid The following concepts will be discussed in detail:  Interpreting real-life terrain features from a topographical map  Setting declination on a compass and its importance  Taking a bearing from a map  Setting a bearing onto a map  Taking a bearing in the field  Following a bearing in the field  Resection (triangulation) Length: Allow 2 to 3 hours depending on the participants’ background.

All proceeds will go to Marine Search and Rescue.