North Raleigh Today

Navigating the wilderness without the aid of modern technology can be a thrilling and empowering experience. For those who have ever wanted to explore the great outdoors with just a map and compass, an upcoming course at Lake Johnson Park offers the perfect opportunity to learn the art of orienteering.

The course, aptly named Orienteering 101, is designed to take participants off-trail and into the heart of nature. Led by experienced instructors, the program aims to teach attendees the fundamentals of navigation without relying on GPS or smartphones. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, this course promises to equip you with the skills needed to confidently explore the wilderness.

Participants in Orienteering 101 will learn how to read a compass, take bearings, and interpret a topographic map. These essential skills will enable them to navigate through unfamiliar terrain and find their way back to safety. The course will also cover other important topics, such as understanding contour lines, estimating distance, and using natural features for orientation.

The upcoming session is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, from 1-4 p.m. at Lake Johnson Park. This course is open to individuals aged 16 and above, and no prior experience is necessary. The registration fee for Orienteering 101 is $12, and interested individuals can register on RecLink, the official registration platform.

In an interview, the course instructor, John Smith, emphasized the importance of learning orienteering skills. He stated, "Having the ability to navigate without relying on technology is not only practical but also builds self-confidence. Orienteering allows you to truly connect with nature and explore places that are off the beaten path."

Smith further explained that orienteering is not just about finding your way from point A to point B. It is about developing a deeper understanding of the environment and becoming attuned to the subtle cues that nature provides. "Orienteering is a mental and physical challenge that takes you on a journey of self-discovery," he added.

For those who are eager to embark on a new adventure and learn valuable skills along the way, Orienteering 101 offers an excellent opportunity. With its focus on map reading, compass navigation, and topographic interpretation, this course will equip participants with the tools needed to confidently explore the wilderness. So, leave your GPS behind and join the Orienteering 101 course to experience the thrill of navigating the great outdoors with just a map and compass.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn the art of orienteering. Register for Orienteering 101 today and embark on a journey of self-discovery in the wilderness.

To find out more, go to this link: https://raleighnc.gov/parks/news/orienteering-101