103 Navigation for Canyoneers

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Introduction to Navigation Essentials. Learn navigating skills with a map, compass, nature’s clues, and electronic GPS devices. Understand how to be prepared for a backcountry adventure.

Explain the purpose of topographic maps for navigation and route planning in the outdoors. Describe the information represented on a topographic map, terrain features, symbols, map legends, latitude, longitude, and scale. Analyze how contour lines depict the shape and elevation of three-dimensional terrain in two dimensions on a map.

Chapter 2: Compasses: How They Work

Describe compass parts and roles. Understand magnetic vs true north and declination. Identify different compass types. Define bearings and their importance. Understand deviation and minimize its effects. Describe following a compass course.

Chapter 3: Navigation: Map and Compass Combined

Explain orienting a map using a compass and its importance in navigation. Describe the techniques for finding a course from a map and determining bearings to mapped objects.

Understand how lines of position help you locate observed objects on a map. Define "dead reckoning" and "distance off" and their significance in navigation.

Chapter 4: Electronic Navigation

Define the Global Positioning System (GPS) and explain its functionality. Differentiate between various types of GPS devices. Understand GPS capabilities, coordinates, waypoints, tracks, and route planning. Recognize the importance of canyon beta and identify trusted sources for downloading it to a GPS device.

Chapter 5: Navigating with Nature

Explain the techniques for finding north and south using the sun's position at noon. Learn to determine north and south directions from the shadow cast by an object. Understand the movements of sunrise and sunset and their significance in navigation. Define the concept of taking bearings from the positions of sunrise and sunset. Identify the celestial bodies Polaris (the North Star) and the Southern Cross, and their roles in navigation.

Chapter 6 Preparing for the Journey: Planning the Route and Packing the Right Gear List the essential and recommended gear for day hikes and overnight backpacking trips. Explain the importance of proper footwear, layered clothing, and rain/cold weather protection