Map and Compass Training With Back Country Hike
Schedule
Sat Aug 16 2025 at 08:30 am to 02:00 pm
UTC-07:00Location
Long Valley Ranger Station | Palm Springs, CA

About this Event
Map and Compass Training
Join us for an exciting hands-on training session to master the art of navigation using maps and compasses! Whether you're a beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, this event is perfect for all levels. Learn how to read maps, use compasses effectively, and navigate like a pro. The training will take place at the Long Valley Ranger Station, so come prepared for a day of adventure and learning. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your outdoor skills and gain confidence in the wilderness!
Map & Compass knowledge allows an individual with the right equipment to hike anywhere in the world and find their way around without having to follow trails or paths made by others.
Learn the basics of navigation using a map and compass. Learn how to read a topographic map, identify landmarks, take a bearing and find your location. During the hike we’ll be pointing out landmarks on a topographic map. A “San Jacinto Peak, Calif.” quadrangle map, will be provided to you so you can follow along. The NHA has Ranger compasses to pass out for the use during the class.
This hike and class discussion will be led by Royce Jones, 13 years experience as a Wilderness Patroller at Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness. Royce will be assisted by other Wilderness Patrollers. This hike will be predominately off-trail.
DETAILS (Words highlighted in blue are links to additional information)
- Event Date and Time: Saturday August 16 at 8:45 a.m. ( for instructions on purchasing Tram tickets and arriving on time) Remember, receive a 20% discount on Tram tickets.
- Meet at: The Long Valley Ranger Station ( go down to the bottom of the ramp to Long Valley and proceed to the right a few hundred feet)
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Distance: up to 6 miles round trip, uneven terrain, off trail in the backcountry
REQUIREMENTS
- Each individual must register on line in advance to participate. One individual per registration. If later you are unable to attend please use the cancellation option on your registration receipt.
- Take the 8 am tram car to arrive at the meeting location on time. ( for instructions on Tram ticketing and arriving at your event on time )
- You will need to sign a Release of Liability form which can be accessed for reading on line at msjnha.org/release You can print and sign in advance or it will be provided by your leader to sign when you meet.
- Each participant bring water (We recommend a minimum 3 liters of water per person) trail snacks, lunch and a backpack carrying what is normal on a day hike.
- Anyone under the age of 18 (minimum age 14) must be accompanied by a legal guardian
- Proper hiking attire i.e. hiking clothes, hiking boots, hat, sunglasses. NO TENNIS SHOES!! Hiking poles are recommended , but not mandatory.
- We depart from the Long Valley Ranger Station at 9:00 AM and return around 2:00 PM
RETURN TO EVENTS SCHEDULE
If you have any questions please contact Royce [email protected]
Where is it happening?
Long Valley Ranger Station, 1 Tramway Rd, Palm Springs, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
