Mountain Proficiency & Navigation Course ( ref: MP 21/11)

Are you looking to become safe and self-sufficient in the mountains?

Gain confidence in the mountains with the expertise of a KerryClimbing Instructor.

Our 1 Day Mountain Proficiency & Navigation Course will give you the practical map and compass skills needed to navigate safely and confidently in the Irish mountains.

The course is suitable for all levels, from complete beginners upwards. It is ideal for individuals, clubs, youth groups and families who want to develop their mountain skills.

Build Your Mountain Navigation Skills

The ability to navigate accurately and safely is an essential skill for anyone heading into the Irish hills and mountains.

Weather and visibility can change very quickly. Therefore, being able to understand a map, use a compass and navigate effectively in poor visibility is extremely important.

Our course provides an excellent introduction to mountain navigation. We focus on practical skills that you can use on your own days in the hills.

Become More Confident in the Mountains

This course isn’t simply about learning how to use a map and compass. We also want to improve your awareness, decision-making and confidence in the mountain environment.

Many people spend years walking in the hills while sticking to established paths or following friends with stronger navigation skills.

We can help you develop the skills to choose your own route, step away from the path and plan your own mountain days with greater confidence.

What to Expect

Our 1 Day Mountain Proficiency & Navigation Course takes place in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

We begin with a short introduction before heading onto the lower mountain slopes for a practical day of learning.

Throughout the day, you will work on contours, pacing, timing distances and navigation techniques. Most importantly, you will learn how to understand what your map is showing you and recognise those features in the landscape around you.

1 Day Course Syllabus

During the course we cover:

• Maps, scales, grid systems and grid references

• The three D’s – Direction, Distance and Detail

• Compass types and their advantages and disadvantages

• Measuring and taking bearings

• Allowing for magnetic variation

• Following bearings in poor visibility

• Back bearings

• Pacing and timing distances

• Distance calculations

• Understanding contours and the shape of the land

• Identifying and interpreting map features

Course Price

€95 per person