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Post by pr01efeed on May 9, 2015 13:37:06 GMT -5
Hello, first time posting. Been a lurker awhile. I am writing to asking for any resources to learn mapping and compass use skills, such as plotting points on a map and following them. Whether that be books, or a guide somehwere on the internet. I'd really love an interactive game, like an interactive flash game. If you can point me in a good direction (pun intended) that would be much appreciated.
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Post by GaliWalker on May 9, 2015 15:44:53 GMT -5
I can't really help you with pointers to resources - hopefully others can chime in - since I am self taught (and still use a map; no GPS). My bit of advice is as follows, regarding how you can get started on your own: Nothing beats feeling comfortable with off-trail navigation more than doing it. Get yourself a 40ft contour map, a compass and an altimeter and get on a trail. At all times keep track of where you are on the trail. If there is a lot of elevation change the altimeter is a better tool than the compass, but once in a while pick a spot some distance away and see what the compass reading is. When you get to that point, repeat. Pretty soon, you'll get a good idea of your general direction of travel. Once you get comfortable with moving on a trail, start venturing off it, if the opportunity presents itself.
Since, all my off-trail hikes have been solo, I remember feeling some trepidation to start off. The more I did it the more comfortable I got with it. It was also a lot more fun to figure it out for myself; the feeling of accomplishment at plotting a route on a map and then executing on it was great (every time). I should mention that most of these trips were done in Washington State. I haven't done many such hikes here in the mid-Atlantic (just 3 in 5yrs).
Get out there and just do it. It's not rocket science.
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Post by GaliWalker on May 9, 2015 16:03:15 GMT -5
Regarding how to plot a route on a map, study the contour lines carefully before sketching out an appropriate line. There are a few other things to consider, such as stream crossings, amount of brush (which may be shown on the map if it's current and color coded), snow, etc. Just use your head, and if in doubt consult satellite imagery on Google Earth. Then try and follow your route in the field - remember, knowing where you are at all times is key, and be prepared to adjust if you made a mistake with your original route choice. Never panic. If you've got stuck, sit down and then think it through. After the first few times you'll get a good idea about what's doable and what's not.
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Post by GaliWalker on May 9, 2015 17:03:25 GMT -5
One final piece of advice: Even if your hiking with someone else, who's leading/navigating, you should know where you are and what route is being followed. (The few times I've led hikes, I've always provided my partners with a (contour) map and discussed the intended route with them, but you shouldn't expect that.)
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Post by pr01efeed on May 9, 2015 17:18:22 GMT -5
Thank you for the replies / advice. I fully attend to have maps and a game plan when hiking. I am just interested in being able to plot my course with a map and compass as a life skill. By putting it in practice when hiking, it will give me something addition to do and learn while I'm out there. I feel like this it is something i should be able to do. I have read a few tutorials via google and i think i get he general idea. Now its time to go hiking and try them out and see how wrong i am
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