Navigational Method and Basic Terminology

The way that we teach navigation is to split our route into manageable chunks (or 'Legs') we then look at the map and work out what we are going to see and when we are going to see it. Before we get too far into forming a strategy we should cover some basic terminology. You will also notice a glossary at the end of the menu system which will have a more exhaustive list of common terms.

 

  • Handrails: These are linear features that you can follow, they include paths, streams, ridges, crags, walls and if it is misty, a compass bearing.
  • Tick Features: Looking at the map, if you mentally move along a handrail make note of all the things you are going to pass. You may cross a wall, pass a tarn and end up at a sheepfold. All these points are tick features. Identifying tick features and mentally ticking them off as you walk past them is the key to fair weather navigation. Be careful though as the wall may have fallen down the tarn may be dry and the sheepfold may have been dismantled.
  • Catchments: This is another name for a tick feature at which you have to stop to make a decision on where to go. For example, at a path junction. 
  • Overshoots: If you miss your catchment (or if no catchment existed) then you may end up further along your handrail than intended. Having identified an overshoot (a recognisable, distinct, tick feature) further along the handrail you will hopefully notice that you’ve gone too far and can start to back track.
  • Contour lines: Contour lines are used in mapping to represent the shape of the land. By interpreting them we get a three dimensional representation of what the terrain will look like. Each contour line connects different areas on the map that are at the same height above sea level. Some people take to interpreting contour lines really easily, for most it takes a very long time. Expect to spend the next couple of years honing your skills.

 

Next page - Forming a Strategy

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