Badge
On-Trail Navigation Course
DESCRIPTION OF SKILLS
The holder of this badge has successfully completed our On-Trail Navigation Course and has demonstrated knowledge in the basics of on-trail navigation using information from a map and observations in the field combined with a compass, watch, altimeter, and GPS. Students will learn the following skills:
- Be able to recognize major landscape features on a topographic map, read and interpret the scale and legend, and use the map for basic planning and on-trail navigation applications.
- Learn how to use a compass with a topo map to make navigation decisions on the trail including measuring and following a bearing.
- Learn to use a watch, observed terrain and altimeter with a topographic map to maintain awareness of where you are on a trail and how long a given route should take.
- Learn how to use Gaia GPS to find yourself on the trail.
WHAT DOES THIS BADGE ALLOW ME TO DO?
Students who complete the course will be well prepared to confidently follow even remote backcountry trails and, if desired, continue on to an off-trail navigation course like Wilderness Navigation.
HOW DO I GET THIS BADGE?
COURSES
Participants must successfully complete an On-Trail Navigation Course to earn the badge. As part of the course, participants must participate in a live workshop, either in person or online to learn the required skills, and they must also participate in one or more outdoor field trips to practice those skills.
EQUIVALENCY
This badge is only for course graduates. We do not offer equivalency because this badge is not a prerequisite requirement for any of our activities or other courses.