Map Reading & Navigation Skills for Women - Beginner friendly (Level 1)

Gain the Confidence to Plan and Navigate Your Own Hikes

Are you a keen hiker but lack confidence in reading maps and planning routes?
This course is perfect for women who want to take control of their own adventures, learn essential navigation skills, and feel more independent outdoors. Set in the stunning woodlands and hills of Ashridge Estate, you’ll be part of a small group, learning alongside other supportive women.

Led by a female instructor with over 5 years of experience in leading women's walks, I'm an NNAS-qualified navigation tutor, outdoor first aider, and a member of search and rescue. My aim is to create a comfortable, encouraging environment for you to build your confidence in a fun and practical way.

When and Where:
- Meet: 9:30 AM
- Finish: 2:30-3:00 PM
- Location: Ashridge Monument Cafe, Ashridge.
- Free parking available.
- Lunch: We’ll stop at the outdoor café, (food not included) but feel free to bring a packed lunch if you prefer. Toilets are available at the cafe.
- Distance - we will walk approx 10km on the day, paths can be uneven and muddy.

Cost: £40 per person (plus meetup booking fee) OR pay by CARD
(Small group: Maximum of 4 participants for plenty of personal guidance)
All equipment provided.

What You Will Learn:
- Map Reading: Get to grips with map scales, grid references, and key features, and learn how to orient your map.
- Compass Skills: Use a compass to navigate confidently.
- Route Planning: Learn how to navigate using paths, tracks, and linear features to plan simple routes.
- Distance Estimation: Measure distance on the map and estimate how far you’ve travelled on the ground.
- Relocation: Know how to find your position if you get off track, using landmarks and map features.
- Mobile Phone Apps: Understand how to use location apps as a backup for traditional navigation tools.
- Environmental Awareness: Learn about local conservation and environmental considerations during your hike.

This course is a great way to meet like-minded women, boost your confidence, and get hands-on experience in a supportive environment.

What to wear and bring:
Map and compass will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you have them (we will be using OS active map 181).
Note pad & pen for making any notes.
Please check the temperatures - we recommend you bring a hat and gloves and layers
It's recommended to carry a waterproof jacket at all times.

Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, etc. for warm days, or waterproofs, hat and gloves for wet / cold days.
Avoid denim or cotton.
Opt for walking shoes or boots; open-toe shoes won't be suitable.

Bring at least 1 litres of water, lunch, and snacks.
Keep in mind that there won't be public toilets available on the route.

Sign up form:
If you haven't filled out a form this year or if your circumstances have changed, please complete the provided form before attending. Participation won't be allowed without the completed form.
Link: https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058

Preparation and Level:

You are responsible for your own health and safety during the hike. It's important to be physically able to hike continuously for the duration specified. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to take part.

Safety and Guidelines:

Our guided walks are led by qualified walking leaders through Mountain Training UK. Our leaders are also Outdoor First Aiders. Please note that no dogs are permitted on our walks.
Adventure Women is an all-female activity group.

Walk Grades:

Easy: Mostly flat, under 10 miles, suitable for beginners.

Medium: Inclines, over 10 miles; challenging but doable for most.
Hard: Steep inclines and/or over 15 miles; requires some walking/hill fitness.

Challenging: Tougher terrain, unsteady ground, hilly, remote areas, full days out; not for beginners.

Important Note:

By RSVPing "yes" to any event, you agree to the group's terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs

About us:

Adventure Women is an outdoor pursuits club for women united by a shared passion of exploration and an unwavering spirit of adventure. We believe that the outdoors is a canvas for personal growth, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences. We empower women to push boundaries, embrace the unknown, and create lasting memories in the great outdoors. Our community is a supportive network where women of all backgrounds can bond, learn, and thrive together. Join us to embark on journeys that inspire, uplift, and redefine what it means to be an adventure woman.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Erika 07522842696
See all our upcoming adventures here