This info session is intended as a navigational primer for any one who wanders in the backcountry. A compass without a map is of limited use – the reverse is also true.  Although this session focuses on how to get around without a GPS unit (i.e. what-to-do-if-the-batteries-fail!). We’ll be covering topics which also underpin your GPS and which are crucial to understanding what you see on the screen.

Part One – Maps

The first half of the session will focus on:

• Map projections (putting a 3D world on a 2D map – tricky business)
• Mapping conventions
• Map datum (what the heck is NAD83 anyway?)
• Coordinate systems (lats & longs vs UTM)
• Scale, elevation

Part 2 – Using a Compass

At least a few of us have been diligently packing a compass into the backcountry for years—- ever had to use it? We’ll do a couple of hands-on exercises with maps and compasses, including:

• Adjusting for the difference between “map north” and where your compass points.
• How to use your compass to navigate between two points on a map.
• Transferring a bearing (direction) from your compass to your map.
• Tricks to improve “compassing” accuracy.

What to Bring:

• If you have a compass, bring it
  • doesn’t matter if it’s a “compensating” compass or not
  • Don’t worry if you don’t have one, this session will help you decide what type might be best if you choose to purchase one.
  • I’ll have a few extra compasses available.

• Some sort of straight edge ruler preferably in cm’s, but it’s not critical, it’s more for drawing a straight line.
• A sharp pencil.
• Enthusiasm.

And if there’s time, bonus topics include:

• How far north (or south) will a compass work?
• Will your compass work on Mars?
• Which way would a compass have pointed 80million years ago?