Navigation · reminders Navigation Reminders A pocket toolkit of fine-navigation techniques — taking a bearing, timing, and using catching features, attack points, handrails, escape routes and backstops to stay found.
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Navigation Reminders Bearings Take a 3-figure grid bearing. Set it on the compass: line up the orienting lines, read at the index. Walk the bearing, keeping the compass level. Re-check regularly and after every feature. Timing (Naismith's rule) Base pace 5 km/h on the level. Add 1 hour for every 600 m of ascent. Ease off for gentle descent; add time for steep descent. Adjust for terrain, weather, group ability and breaks. Catching features Obvious, unmistakable features that check your position. Examples: peaks, cols, re-entrants, streams, walls, junctions. Plan to meet them along your route. Attack points A distinct feature near your goal to aim for first. Use it to start a handrail, change direction or cross hard ground. Choose features you can see and confirm. Handrails Linear features that are easy to follow. Examples: rivers, streams, walls, ridges, fences, tracks. Follow to or from your attack point. Escape routes Plan escape routes before you set out. Options leading to safety, lower ground or a known point. Consider terrain, distance, weather and time to reach. Backstops A feature or line that stops you going too far. Examples: cliffs, lakes, fences, rivers, roads. Use to limit error and add a safety margin. Mountain Cards Navigation toolkit Use of this tool is offered on the condition of a donation to Severn Area Rescue Association .