The Mountain Skills and Navigation Course is an exciting, hands-on experience that equips you with the skills to navigate the UK’s mountains confidently. Aimed at beginners and novices, this course takes place over one full day in the Lake District, with an optional second day for deeper exploration.
Day 1:
Focus on developing fundamental skills, such as map reading and compass navigation. You will learn how to:
Interpret landscapes and contours
Measure distances on the map and on the ground
Use a compass to take bearings and measure distances.
Plan routes and strategies
Identify hazards
Day 2:
Build upon the skills introduced on Day 1. This extension is particularly beneficial for reinforcing techniques useful in poor visibility or challenging terrain. Throughout both days, you'll have a relaxed and supportive environment with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn at your own pace.
By the end of this course, you will be able to confidently navigate challenging terrain, develop critical safety awareness, and enjoy greater independence in the mountains. Our ultimate goal is to help you learn and navigate competently while enjoying a rewarding outdoor experience.
Courses are run on Saturdays with an optional second day on Sundays:
- Saturday 10th/Sunday 11th May 2025 - Coniston
- Saturday 24th/Sunday 25th May 2025 - Coniston
- Saturday 31st May/Sunday 1st June 2025 - Coniston
Alternative dates and locations may be available. Please contact us for further details or to discuss specific requirements.
Please note: Timings and activities may vary based on weather and group requirements.
8:30 am:
Meet at the car park for a welcome and introduction.
9:00 am:
After introductions and briefings, the training will start with a discussion on the map and location, followed by a practical introduction to pacing and timing techniques for measuring walking distances. We will then focus on compass techniques to orientate the map and measure/follow bearings. After some initial practice, we will make our way up into the mountains and put the navigation techniques into practice. Throughout the morning, we will build upon map reading skills by using the map to interpret contours, plan route strategies and identify potential dangers.
12:30 pm:
We will aim to have lunch around 12:30 or 1 pm and there will be opportunity to chat or ask questions.
1:30 pm:
For the remainder of the day, we will continue building upon the navigation techniques and map reading skills by combining and practicing all the techniques that were introduced in the morning.
5:00 am:
We will aim to reach the car park and finish by 5 pm. There will be a debrief and you will have the opportunity to have individual feedback.
