Navigate with Map and Compass

Outdoors & NatureIntermediateOutdoor

90 minutes

5 steps

·Intermediate

After 90 min: Confidence to navigate using topographic maps and a compass without GPS

What you need

topographic-mapcompasspencillandmark

The 90-Minute Plan

Understand Map Symbols0–15 min

Learn contour lines, elevation changes, landmarks, trails, and scale. Study the legend and understand what each color means

Master Compass Basics15–35 min

Learn the magnetic needle, orienting lines, and direction-of-travel arrow. Understand declination and true north vs. magnetic north

Orient the Map35–55 min

Place compass on map so orienting lines align with map grid. Rotate map and compass together until magnetic needle aligns

Find Your Position55–75 min

Identify known landmarks on the map. Use compass to take bearings from each landmark back to the map

Navigate to a Destination75–90 min

Set a bearing on the compass, align the baseplate on the map, rotate to align orienting lines, and walk following the arrow

Pro Tip

Always carry multiple maps of your area. Practice in familiar territory before wilderness navigation

90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: You'll confidently navigate trails and find your way even when marked paths disappear.

7,400

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: You'll supplement meals with foraged foods and deepen your connection to the land.

6,700

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: Ability to safely identify and harvest 10+ edible wild plants from your region

3,870

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

After 90 min: You'll have the skills to camp safely and comfortably, building confidence in nature.

8,200

see the plan