Map Reading Made Easy

Are you new to hill walking or wanting to be more adventurous with your time outside. Do you want to stop passively following the blue dot on a screen and become a cognitive navigator instead?

This 3-4 hour introductory session into map reading and navigation in easy terrain with spectacular views across the North Yorkshire National Park in the shadow of Roseberry Topping.

Gain confidence when following more indistinct paths, or even by the end of the session doing some ninja navigating by reading and interpreting contours all in a safe relaxed environment.

During the session we will gently walk around 5-6km and look at the following topics

· Selecting appropriate mapping

· Planning your time outside

· Safety in the hills

· Setting a map

· Map scales, pacing and timing

· Contours, relief and height

· Using a compass

· Navigation techniques and strategies

· Mapping apps

This isn’t going to be a hard walk with no more than around 150m of ascent depending on the weather on the day however you will still need a moderate level of fitness.

You will need to wear appropriate clothing and sturdy waking boots/shoes and waterproofs. Snacks and a flask are always a good idea. At the end of the walk you will be welcome to join your instructor for refreshments in nearby Great Ayton.

Your instructor will loan you mapping and compasses for the event.

Please be prompt for the start time, the car park is free but can get very busy on a weekend

Your instructor for the day grew up in Great Ayton, is a member of Mountain Training Association, has over 40 years’ experience on these moors. An army map reading instructor, Duke of Edinburgh award volunteer and a NNAS Gold award holder. He has a current FREC 3 (first aid) certificate. Please contact him on [email protected] for any further information.

Host or Publisher North Yorkshire Guided Walks