REI Outdoor School > Virginia and Maryland > Introduction to GPS Navigation (Outing)

Virginia and Maryland REI Outdoor School

Introduction to GPS Navigation (Outing)

Learn the latest GPS navigation techniques to keep you headed in the right direction. Head out into the field for a day of hands-on navigation training with our expert Outdoor School instructors. You’ll practice pinpointing your location, projecting waypoints, plotting courses and creating routes out on the trail, so that you can successfully navigate through local parks and your favorite backcountry destinations. Learn to transfer information from the GPS to your map and from the map to the GPS. We will even show you how to use your GPS to give you driving directions to your destination (not all units have this ability). If you own a GPS unit, please bring it to get detailed instruction on its features. Demo GPS receivers will be available, as well as maps and compasses, as we enjoy a scenic hike through a local park. This class will provide an overview of the different techniques needed to fully utilize your GPS receiver.

Basics of Navigation Class is recommended (but not mandatory) to get the most from this outing.

* Advance registration is required. Call or visit any DC area REI to sign up.

Time:
Meet at 9:00 a.m.
Cost: Member: $45, Non-Member: $65

Where To Meet:

Meet at the location or REI store listed below. If the program meets at a location other than a REI store, a member of the Outdoor School staff will contact you to coordinate directions.

May 4th Bailey's Crossroads REI
May 25th Timonium REI
June 1st Fairfax REI
June 15th College Park REI
July 19th Rockville REI
July 27th Fairfax REI
August 2nd Baileys Crossroads REI
August 24th Timonium REI
September 13th College Park REI
September 28th College Park REI

WHAT TO BRING:

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 GPS, however,
GPS units will be available for participants to use.
A daypack to carry it all!

REI OUTDOOR SCHOOL PROVIDES:

GPS receivers will be available for participants use.
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.