Basic map and compass skills are often overlooked by paddlers but are essential if you’re hunting down the next stout or need to walk out from a river. Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology has changed many aspects of navigation. This doesn’t negate the need for a basic understanding of map/compass use. Batteries don’t last forever and you just know that if you’re in a tight spot your GPS is bound to breakdown! However that said if you need to pin point your position in bad weather (or otherwise) a GPS will do it damn quick.

Navigation Part II

The Theory

Maps are essentially a 2D representation of a 3D world. Maps contain a huge range of information that can on first glance look very intimidating. But given some time and very little effort you can unlock that information and begin to use maps to your advantage.

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