Beginners Navigation Course

Our beginner courses are perfect for complete novices, and those still new to map reading and navigation from the age of 14* and up.

This one-day course will cover all the basics including:

• Understanding map symbols and 6 figure grid references.

• Being able to match our surroundings to what we can see on the maps.

• Be introduced to an array of basic navigation techniques.

• Develop an awareness of access laws and how to handle emergency situations in the wilderness.

You do not need any previous navigation or "off trail" walking experience as this course is tailored to the abilities of the group on the day, however a basic level of walking fitness will be required.

The day will be flexible in its structure, with routes suitable for the groups current abilities plus the weather and conditions underfoot, allowing plenty of opportunities to explore the local surroundings, look at our maps, enjoy the day out on the moors, and share, discuss and develop any existing skills.

We try to be as accessible as possible, however, if you have any mobility issues or otherwise it is best to share this with us as soon as possible so we can try to make any reasonable adjustments necessary.

*Under 18's must be accompanied by a participating responsible adult. Max of 3 under 18's to 1 adult.

We shall provide all necessary navigation tools and equipment for the day, however you are welcome to bring your own maps and compass if you own them.

Other equipment required includes:

1. Personal walking clothing, (NO cotton).
2. Waterproof jacket AND trousers.
3. Warm Insulating layers and spare layers in rucksack.
4. Walking boots or sturdy walking shoes. No wellies, crocs or trainers please as we will be walking on mixed terrain and gradients.
5. Packed lunch and snacks.
6. Personal water bottle, 2 litres recommended as a minimum.
7. Personal rucksack.
8. Small personal first aid kit (optional but strongly recommended).
9. Head torch and spare batteries (optional but highly recommended).

1. We shall meet at Cow and Calf Rocks Cafe, Hangingstone Rd, Ilkley, LS29 9RF for a prompt 9:00 am start. If you aim to arrive about 10 minutes before this to allow for finding a parking space and finding the group and your instructor. Your instructor will be wearing River and Dale Adventures Uniform and should be positioned just outside the cafe.
2. After brief introductions and meeting the instructor we will begin with some basic map theory, including map symbols and scales, 6 figure grid references, eastings & northings, contour lines and using a compass. This should last for about an hour.
3. We will then head out onto the moors following a preplanned route that has been chosen by the instructor to best match current skills, aims and abilities of the group on the day.
4. Members of the group will be introduced to many basic navigation skills and have opportunities to lead legs of the journey, putting theory into practice.
5. At some time around midday we shall stop for some lunch and a quick recap of the day so far.
6. Back on the trail we may introduce more navigation skills or focus on the mornings skills a little further.
7. Towards the start of the last hour of the day we should find ourselves back at the Cow and Calf Rocks. Here we will spend a little more time on any areas of the day that the learners would personally like to cover or reinforce.
8. Just before 4:30 pm we shall recap the day and say our goodbyes.
9. If you have any further questions, feeback requests or even want to develop an action plan to further your learning your instructor will be more than happy to help you out at this point.

This is only a sample itinerary and your course on the day may change slightly subject to weather conditions, group aims and abilities any other external factors.