Navigation Training

Here are some ways you can practice map, compass, and GPS use.

Watch instructional videos
The Mazamas web gnomes have selected some of the best (ie, clearly presented and short) navigational instruction videos on the web and put them all on one page.  Learn the four core compass skills and more at this Tip of the Week.

Mt. Tabor navigation practice course
This course at a local park in SE Portland teaches more involved navigation skills such as reading UTM coordinates and some basic compass use.
Read complete details here

Mazama Lodge Orienteering course
This course, created in 2010, gives you yet another good reason to have a walk around the Lodge and practice basic map reading skills.
Read complete details here

Wilderness Navigation Skill Builder class
Solidify your understanding of map, compass and GPS use with this 2 lecture, 1 field day class, taught twice a year.
Read complete details on the Skill Builder page under Education and Classes

Try Orienteering
Orienteering is a competitive sport combining map and compass use with cross-country hiking or running.  The Portland based O-club, called the Colombia River Orienteering Club (CROC), holds meets throughout the year.  All meets offer beginner friendly courses and clinics to help you get started.  CROC also has several permanent orienteering courses installed around Portland, where you can try orienteering any time you like for free.  See their website for more.