Winter Night Navigation
Learn LEVEL | 1 day(s) | Ratio 1:6
Overview
Winter presents some specific challenges to the navigator, paths, streams and other features we might normally use in summer can disappear under a covering of snow. Cloud and snow cover create whiteout conditions where even the horizon is indistinguishable. Additional hazards such as avalanche prone slopes and cornices add to the challenge by reducing room for error. Short daylight hours present a significant challenge, and contribute to the importance of accurate navigation.
This afternoon/evening course is aimed at walkers, mountaineers, and climbers who wish to develop strategies and confidence for navigating safely in the dark.
We recommend booking accommodation here at Glenmore Lodge, to avoid late night driving on potentially hazardous roads.
DETAILED INFO
AIMS
To increase your ability to navigate competently and confidently when faced with the particularly challenging conditions of the winter hill environment at night.
PRE-REQUISITES
It is essential that you are competent in the use of ice axe and crampons, ideally you will have attended a winter skills course prior to attending.
Participants should have basic map and compass skills to build on. You should be confident that you are physically prepared to make the most of this course, which takes place in a hostile environment and could involve a lot of height gain.
If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact us to discuss these with a member of our team.
IS IT FOR ME?
This is a great lead-on from our Winter Mountain Navigation course. It is ideal for those who wish to equip themselves with the skills to navigate confidently and competently in the winter mountain environment in the dark.
CONTENT
You will meet your instructor at 2pm at Glenmore Lodge to discuss plans, recap basic navigation skills, and check the weather and avalanche forecast before heading out for up to 8 hours on the hill for intensive winter navigation training.
- Ground to map and map to ground interpretation focusing on contour information
- Avoiding hazards such as avalanche prone slopes, cornices, and hidden water hazards
- Use of compass for taking and following bearings
- Distance measuring, with timing and pacing
- Aiming off and boxing away from corniced edges
- Navigation strategies for poor visibility conditions
- Relocation skills
USEFUL INFORMATION
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Instruction
Use of kit
In-course transport
Please note that food is not included, you will need to bring your own
NEED TO KNOW
WHAT WILL I NEED
YOU WILL NEED (Glenmore Lodge can provide if required)
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Insulated synthetic jacket with hood
- Winter Boots
- Gaiters
- Crampons
- Ice Axe
- 40lt rucksack
- Walking poles
- Map
EQUIPMENT YOU NEED TO BRING WHICH WE DO NOT HAVE IN THE STORES
- Personal clothing
- Insulating layers
- Winter hillwalking trousers/fleece leggings
- Hat & 2 pairs of gloves
- Compass – Silva type 4 recommended with a 1:40,000 romer
- Waterproof map case
- Goggles (we recommend clear lenses)
- Headtorch, spare batteries
- Rucksack liner / dry bags
- Large flask for hot drink
- Personal first aid kit
- Food (Must be high calorie and easy to eat e.g. sausage rolls, pork pies, chocolate, sweets)
