1. Wilderness Navigation
Rob Jagnow
Planning Ahead
Topo Maps
Basic Skills
Advanced Techniques

2. Navigation Fundamentals
Pre-trip planning is essential
Required by every trip member
Intended plans
Contingency plans
Familiarity with general area
Familiarity with specific route
Roads, escape routes, hazards
When hiking, keep map accessible
Check frequently
Keep track of progress and location
Consider return trip at all times

3. Your Navigation Arsenal
Guidebooks
Maps, trail directions, distances, elevation gain, difficulty rating
Expected travel time (Double times in winter)
AMC White Mountain Guide
Topographic Maps
Contour denoted by lines of constant elevation
Compass
Indicates direction to magnetic north
Can be used with or without a map

4. Topographic Maps
Land features identified by their pattern of contour lines
Legend indicates:
Title
Scale
Contour interval
Magnetic declination
Trails, rivers, roads, etc.

5. Typical Topo Map Land Features

6. Typical Topo Map Land Features

7. Typical Topo Map Land Features

8. Typical Topo Map Land Features

9. Typical Topo Map Land Features

10. Advanced Navigation
Bearing: angle from one place to another measured with respect to true North
Used to maintain consistent travel direction

11. Advanced Navigation
Locate exact position with two bearings

12. Advanced Navigation
Magnetic Declination: discrepancy between magnetic North and true North
Correct by adjusting compass by a known offset
In New Hampshire, 16.5° West!

13. More Advanced Techniques
Intentional bearing offset
Navigate via intermediate objectives
Gain perspective through elevation
Altimeters and GPS
Much, much, more !
Intentional bearing offset: Intentionally aiming to one side of your objective, so you know which way to go when you reach an intermediate objective. For instance, aim for south of the parking lot, so that when you hit the road, you know for certain that you have to go north.
Back bearings: Bearings from a known location to you, rather than from you to a topographic features (offset by 180 degrees).