"How-To" Navigate With Map and Compass Spring 2020

Do you want the confidence to explore the desert without getting lost, even when you leave the trail? Misha Askren will teach participants how to navigate using a map and compass in this two-day field class. Participants will learn the basics of topography, map reading, using a compass, and the history of navigation during classroom and field exercises on Saturday. On Sunday, participants will put all their skills together in a route-finding adventure in the wilderness of Joshua Tree National Park, going to interesting spots and finding caches. These map and compass skills will allow participants to explore the wilderness and find their way back home. They also can be potentially lifesaving, in the event someone does get lost. No previous experience with compass or topo maps is needed. Participants will need to provide their own compass. Maps will be provided.

 Suggested Reading:  Wilderness Navigation by Mike and Bob Burns, available at the Visitor Centers on online at the JTNP Association store.

Please download the course outline: "How to" Navigate with Map and Compass

Hike Level: Moderate (Fitness Levels)

If you are a member of JTNPA you will get a $10 discount off every Desert Institute class. If you are not a member you can become one here.

Before registering, please take the time to review our General Class Information and download the Enrollment Attachments, that contain pertinent information about your class, the Joshua Tree National Park and camping reservations which can be made at recreation.gov

Please print and fill out the PARTICIPANT AGREEMENT. You can bring the completed form to the class.

Cancellation Policy:  If you need to cancel, notify us at least seven days prior to the start of the course and we will process your request minus a $25 cancellation fee. No refunds, transfers, or credits will be granted if cancellation occurs within the seven day period. Please note that we cannot make any exceptions to this refund policy for any reason, including but not limited to medical reasons, illness, travel delays, personal situations, emergencies, or weather. This program depends on registration for its funding. While inconvenient, please understand that this policy enables us to sustain our programs even with last minute cancellations.