Introduction to Map & Compass (Outing)
Join us for an instructional trip to learn how to use a compass and read a map to truly find your way in the wilderness. We'll teach you the parts of a compass and how to make use of them. We'll talk about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination), and help you make sense of it all. Then we'll learn how to take a bearing from the terrain, and from your map, so you can triangulate your position and plan a route. Speaking of maps, what do all those squiggly lines mean? We'll look at topographic maps and learn how to read them to understand your terrain. We'll also discuss strategies such as using "handrails" for "aiming off' to improve the accuracy of your backcountry navigation. Map and Compass Basics Class is recommended (but not mandatory) to get the most from this outing.
* Advance trip sign-up is required. Call or visit any Boston area REI to sign up.
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Member: $35
- Non-Member: $55
Meet at the location or REI store listed below. Directions to locations other than REI stores can be found by clicking on the link below.
Get directions to all non-store venues here.
- February 9th Lynn Woods - Lynn, MA
- February 17th Cranston REI
- March 8th Reading REI
- March 29th Hingham REI
- April 5th Boston REI
- May 10th Hingham REI
- May 17th Cranston REI
- June 8th Boston REI
- June 28th Reading REI
- Quick-dry shirt and hiking pants. If the forecast is for cool temperatures, bring along a fleece jacket or windproof shell too.
- Water-resistant or waterproof jacket/anorak in case of rain.
- Sturdy trail shoes or hiking boots, with moisture-wicking socks.
- A water bottle, such as a bicycle style or Nalgene, filled with drinking water, juice, etc.
- Sun protection (sunscreen and wide brim hats w/ retainers) and sunglasses with retainers.
- Bag lunch and snacks.
- Your compass, however, compasses will be available for participants to use.
- A daypack to carry it all!
- Compass units and sample maps.
- Transportation between REI and trailhead, except when outing meets at venue.
- All park entry fees for riders in the REI Outdoor School van.
- Group medical supplies and area maps.
REI Outdoor School Cancellation Policy
To be courteous to all customers, we request you notify REI Outdoor School at least 48 hours prior to the trip if you intend to cancel; late cancellations will not be refunded. Class or Outing cancellations on the part of REI Outdoor School will be refunded in full, regardless of timeframe. Inclement weather does not necessarily cancel an event; REI Outdoor School will contact you in the event of a cancellation.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
REI Outdoor School strives to provide the best outdoor education programs possible. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures that our classes and outings at REI Outdoor School meet your high standards—or we will gladly offer your choice of a refund or a chance to re-take the class/outing.
Waitlists
In order to keep our instruction personable, space on our classes and outings is limited. If you are interested in an activity that has filled, we would be happy to place you on a waitlist for that event. If space opens, we will contact the list in the order you signed up, but we are unable to hold that spot if we’re unable to speak with you directly. Providing us with your best contact information increases your chances of joining us.
Availability
Classes and outings are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. Should a program be cancelled or a rescheduled, all registered participants will be notified.
