Field trip: Introduction to Map & Compass
Introduction to Map & Compass Field Trip - Union Bay Natural Area
An easy hike on the loop trail at the Union Bay Natural Area, located next to the Center for Urban Horticulture. Students will have an excellent opportunity for hands-on instruction in a very small group setting. Navigational practice will focus on measuring and plotting bearings, and situational awareness.
Contacts
- Sat, Jan 31, 2026
- Seattle Navigation Committee
- Navigation
- Adults
- Easy
- Easy
- Mileage: 1.0 mi
- High Point Elevation: 20 ft
- 1 (10 capacity)
- 1 (2 capacity)
- Sat, Nov 1, 2025 at 6:00 AM
- Mon, Jan 26, 2026 at 12:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- iCal Google
Topics include:
- Situational Awareness
- Routefinding
- Pacing
- Understanding declination
- Measuring and plotting bearings as part of one unified process
- Orienting the map
- Triangulation techniques
- Other topics as time permits
Please note that this class is not the Wilderness Navigation Course and does not satisfy the graduation requirement for the Snowshoe, Scrambling, and Climbing courses. This is an Intro class designed to teach basic concepts and skills. There is not a badge issued upon graduating.
We will meet at the Center for Urban Horticulture, 3501 NE 41st St, Seattle. You will either be in a morning session from 8:30-12:00, or an afternoon session from 12:30-4:00. Please allow 3.5 hours to complete the field trip.
Required Equipment
A map and compass will be provided. You must use the compass provided (Suunto MC-2). Be prepared for rain. Wear good walking/hiking shoes. We will mostly be on a flat gravel/dirt trail.