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Anyone know where I would go to get more "formal" training on map and compass navigation? I can read a map like no one's business, and have a far-above-average understanding of how to read topo etc. However, I've never really been taught how to use a compass, other than to find north (duh) or other cardinal directions. I tried going to a Tucson Orienteeing Club activity, and while I had a lot of fun, I found that what they do is pretty different than what I'm looking to learn.

And, yes, I ALSO want to learn how to use a GPS to wayfind in the backcountry as well. But there's something cool and romantic about the old way. I want to have both skills... I figure the GPS will be easier to learn, as I have access to the technology and there's all kinds of stuff on the 'net about that.

Any suggestions?

The military...just kidding. I think Tucson has an orienteering club and they do workshops, etc. That might be a start...

I know you said you went to the Orienteering club, and its emphasis is different from what you were looking for, but I still think that may be your best bet. I once took a basic mountaineering course from the Sierra Club that taught the triangulation, etc.

I learned more from a book than I did in the service, actually...

Since you are in Tucson, I would encourage you to go to SummitHut. They might offer basic classes. I think REI offers classes from time to time on the basics. Beyond that, I agree with Jeff - find a good book. I would expect that there are some good tutorials on the internet if you do a google search. I learned in Boy Scouts - I think from the manual and field work. If you are good with a topo map and finding north, you have the basic skills for survival.

REI has classes every month on this. There is a basic class (one hour I think) that is free and you just show up to take it. There is a more advanced one that has a fee involved and is a bit longer.

You can find out about these classes on the REI website, then clicking the "Store Locator" link at the top of the page. Find & click on your closest REI store, and then choose the "REI Classes, Events and Presentations" link.

Several good and informative books on the subject, after you learn how to use you can find something ( grave, cave, old bench mark etc ) from several miles away without using a GPS.