Walkhighlands has teamed up with Heather Morning, Mountain Safety Officer at the Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) to provide a couple of day long navigation courses next May.
Each course, to be held in the Ochils near Alloa, will begin with an hour at the local mountain rescue centre and the rest of the day will be spent on practical navigation skills on the hill. The courses are aimed at anyone who wants to learn how to navigate for hillwalking or to brush up existing knowledge. The courses are very friendly and will also provide a chance to meet with other Walkhighlands users. The one day courses will be held on Saturday 4 May and Sunday 5 May and are being run on a no-profit, minimal cost basis and are £35 each which includes a year’s free membership of the MCofS. Places are limited to 12 on each day and bookings are now being taken by the MCofS (01738 493 942).
Heather says, “These courses are an ideal way to increase your confidence in finding your way on the hill, learn the skills of map reading and compass bearings and pick up handy hints and techniques to locate yourself in poor visibility”.
The navigation course will provide a gentle introduction to the theory followed by a practical session on the hill alongside other Walkhighlands users. Ratios are 1:6 and there are spaces for 12 people per course (the minimum age is 18 years). You will need to be equipped for a day out on the hill with food and drink, boots, gaiters, waterproof jacket and overtrousers, warm hat and gloves or mitts and a map case or clear poly bag. Maps and compasses will be provided.
To book a place please phone 01738 493 942 and mention that you want to book the Walkhighlands Navigation Course on either 4th or 5th May, you can also email but phoning will ensure you get a place as they tend to book up fast.