Often we make journeys in the outdoors to escape, to connect, to unplug and tune into the rhythms of nature. While the map, compass, and GPS have a firm and sensible place in the rucksack there is an even simpler, more primal means of finding our way. Absolutely this requires us to slow our pace, listen to the world around us, and focus mindfully on what we’re experiencing: natural navigation then is a gateway to getting what we needed from being outdoors in the first place while also guiding us on that journey.

We can see which way the tree leans, how the winds have shaped the terrain, the heavens and the earth are our compass as we show you how to read the natural signs around you. -Jamie Dakota

WHAT’S COVERED: 

On this natural navigation course we’ll make a journey through the landscape, reading clues and learning techniques to find out which direction your heading with any tools or maps. We’ll look at everyday aspects of natural navigation which can integrate into your navigation skillset to round out your understanding of the land and your movements through it.

• Introduction to the inner world

  • Understanding your senses

  • Information gathering methods

  • Mindset- becoming conscious of how you think and how to best use those pathways

• Introduction to the natural world

  • The cardinal directions and how to orientate yourself

  • The Sun and it’s influence

  • The Winds and their movements

  • How trees and plants give direction clues

• Natural Navigation

  • Making a journey using natural means to guide you

  • How to integrate these methods into a fully rounded navigators skillset

• The course is run as a long form navigation challenge, we’ll be moving most of the day covering around 8km over the course. We will be walking at a generally slow pace, working as a group with the guidance of the instructors to work out how to find each way-mark. As such you should be fit enough to spend most of the day on foot, walking at times up some steep/ rough ground.

• Not sure what natural navigation is? Here’s a short article JD wrote which might help explain.

DETAILS:

• 10am - 4.30pm

• £65 per person

• Please note the terms and conditions before you book

• Small group size with a maximum of 8 guests to ensure we create a very high interaction time with the instructor.

  • This day course is also available as a private booking, so if you have a group of friends that want to get outside and learn some skills contact us directly for a quote.

• A full kit list is given out on booking, but you won't need much more than warm clothing and some lunch.

• Due the involved nature of this course, we don't feel its suitable to under 10 year olds (please ask if you have any questions)

• Under 18's must be accompanied by a participating adult

• Run in the north of Sheffield. We'll send you exact directions with the booking pack.

• Instructor: Jamie Dakota Instructor: Max Barnes Instructor: Robin Heath

REVIEWS

There was a lot of information - which was great - I think the practical aspect at the end was good pulling things together to get back to the cars.

Adrian 2021

All the pre-course information was great. Included everything we needed to know in a very well set out presentation. This included information on what we would be covering, equipment list and location. Fantastic area with a good mixture of landscapes, these include Woodland, Heathland, and Rocky Crags. All have their own character and full of different flora and fauna. A good all round insight was given to the subject. More than enough to get you out there and continue to carry on and gain more knowledge of the subject yourself. he course as an whole was an highlight. I definitely got more out of the course than I ever planned due to the fantastic way it was delivered. Just do it, you'll not regret it.

Scott 2021