Backcountry Navigation - GPS, Map & Compass

We offer a few different GPS and navigation classes. The GPS 101 course (GPS for Beginners) is ideal for those considering a GPS purchase in the future, as well as those interested in learning how to use a handheld GPS that they currently own, in their recreational pursuits. We provide the most basic Garmin eTrex GPS units for each participant in the GPS 101 workshop. We require a minimum of 3 participants to confirm a scheduled group workshop. Private GPS 101 sessions can be arranged for 1-10 people.

We also offer GPS 102, NAV 201 and NAV 202 workshops. More information for the classes can be viewed below. Please note that NAV 201 is a two day course that covers the basics of navigation using GPS, with added instruction and practice for using map and compass. NAV 202 is a 2.5 day course that takes the NAV 201 course another step adding installation of and instruction for using Garmin BaseCamp digital mapping software. All workshops we offer include time in the classroom and with both indoor and outdoor practical applications.

Full payment is required at time of registration for all courses. In the event the class minimum is not met for a scheduled group session, registrants will have the option to register for a class at another time OR request a private session for the private session price.

Please contact us regarding availability, more information, registration and payment information. To speak with someone directly, please call 518-359-7536. Thank you!

• We provide each participant with a Garmin eTrex 20x GPS unit for use during the courses.
• Private sessions can be arranged for Garmin GPS owners who would like to learn how to use their own GPS.
• For sessions where participants are allowed to bring their own GPS units, they must also bring the GPS user's manual.
• We also provide instruction for using a GPS with Garmin BaseCamp (a free topographic digital mapping software program).

November - mid June
Please contact us to make arrangements for a private session for yourself or your group... Tell us what it is you would like to learn and we will create a program to meet your needs. Private sessions are recommended for folks who have their own GPS and would like to learn how to operate it. Cost for a private workshop at our home-base in Tupper Lake begins at $200 for 1-2 people for a 4 hour GPS session. GPS sessions including installation of and instruction for using Garmin BaseCamp digital mapping software begin at $300 for 1-2 people in Tupper Lake and generally run 5-6 hours. Multi-day courses or packages with lodging can be arranged also.

We will send along driving directions to the workshop location and information that will help participants prepare for the course, once a date has been determined.

Private sessions for organizations may be available upon request. We are able to accommodate and provide GPS units for up to 10 people per session. Contact us for more information.

GPS 101 - GPS for Beginners (Tupper Lake, NY)
(5-6 hrs.)
May 25, 2018
June 2, 2018 - FOR WOMEN

This is a beginning level GPS course for those who would like to learn how to use a handheld outdoor GPS receiver. A visual presentation is used to help you become familiar with the various features, functions and terms associated with GPS operation. The workshop begins with an explanation of the Global Positioning System - what it is and how it works. Next we show you how to set up a GPS unit to be used for land navigation. Coordinate grid systems (UTM, latitude & longitude), datum and other information obtained from topographical maps are discussed. Through "hands on" application you will learn how to operate a GPS, develop a better understanding of waypoints and reinforce basic navigational skills throughout the day. This is a practical course for those considering a future GPS purchase as well as those who have a GPS and would like to learn how to use it.

Garmin eTrex 20x GPS units and orienteering compasses are provided for use during this workshop. Expect to bring a lunch, snacks, beverages for the day, clipboard, and writing utensils. Come prepared for time indoors and also for outdoors based on weather and environmental conditions for the day. Snowshoes are provided during the winter months when necessary.

This workshop is limited to 6 participants at our Tupper Lake home-base and 8 participants elsewhere. Plan 5 to 6 hours for this class. It is comprised of indoor classroom instruction and outdoor practical application sessions. We break briefly for lunch. Individual assistance is often available at the end of the workshop as time allows. Group pricing: $110/person; minimum of 3 people necessary to confirm a group class. Limited to 6 people. Advance reservations and pre-payment required. Lodging is available for reservations made through Adirondack Connections for $75/night for 1-2 people (tax included). Let us know if you would like us to make lodging reservations for you. Please contact us for more information, availability, help registering for this class, or to schedule a class at a different time. Click here to register for this class. Thank you!

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GPS 102 - Using a GPS with Garmin BaseCamp Mapping Software (Tupper Lake, NY)
(4-6 hrs.) TBA
**May be arranged upon request based on our availability.

This workshop is for those who have attended an Introductory GPS Workshop or who have prior GPS experience and would like to learn more about using a GPS with topographical software map programs. To get the most out of this experience, we recommend that workshop participants bring a laptop with them. During the course we will install the Garmin BaseCamp program and a NY state topographic map for class and personal use after the class ends.

We will begin by checking for understanding and reviewing GPS basics as necessary. Participants will learn how to transfer data (waypoints, routes, tracks) from the GPS to the Garmin BaseCamp program, work with it to create maps and save data for future reference. We will also show you how to upload topographical maps, waypoints, routes and tracks from BaseCamp to a hand-held GPS receiver.

We provide Garmin eTrex 20x GPS units for use during this workshop for those who do not have a GPS. Expect and prepare to spend time indoors and outdoors. This is a "hands on" learning experience. It is recommended that this workshop be set up as a private session and is best for 1-4 people. Sessions generally run 4 to 6 hours depending on the group size, current GPS experience, and number of laptops available. Group pricing: $110/person; minimum of 3 people necessary to confirm a group class. Limited to 6 people. Advance reservations and pre-payment required. Please contact us for more information or to schedule a workshop.

NAV 201 - Backcountry Navigation with GPS, Map & Compass (Tupper Lake, NY)
(2 days) TBA
**May be arranged upon request based on our availability; lodging & meals packages available.
Day 1: 9 AM - 5 PM
Day 2: 9 AM - 3 PM

This is a 2 day introductory hands-on course focusing on navigation techniques using a GPS, USGS map, and orienteering compass. A brief explanation of the global positioning system will be covered along with basic skills necessary for route-planning and finding one's way in the outdoors. The basic skills will include interpreting topographical map terrain, using a compass with a map, navigating with a compass, setting up a handheld recreational GPS device for operation with a USGS map and compass, and navigating with a GPS. Upon completion of this course participants will be better able to figure out where they are at and determine how to get to a desired destination in the outdoor world.

Please note that this is a 2 day course during which we integrate content from our GPS 101 course with more map & compass instruction and practice. Instruction begins at 9:00 AM on day 1. We try to conclude by 3:00 PM on day 2. Lodging and meals packages may be available with advance reservations for classes in Tupper Lake. It is recommended that this workshop be set up as a private session and is best for 1-4 people. Pre-payment is required.

Garmin eTrex 20x GPS units and orienteering compasses are provided for use during this course. Participants must provide their own lunch, snacks, beverages each day, clipboard, writing utensils, and laptop. Come prepared for time indoors and also for outdoors based on weather and environmental conditions each day. Snowshoes are provided during the winter months when necessary. Expect and prepare to spend time indoors and outdoors. This is a "hands on" learning experience. It is recommended that this workshop be set up as a private session and is best for 1-4 people. Group pricing: $200/person; minimum of 3 people necessary to confirm a group course. Limited to 6 people. Advance reservations and pre-payment are required. Please contact us for more information or to make arrangements for a course.

NAV 202 - Backcountry Navigation with GPS, Map, Compass, & Garmin BaseCamp Mapping Program (Tupper Lake, NY)
(2.5 days)
June 8-10, 2018
October 19-21, 2018 - FOR WOMEN
Day 1: 12:30 - 5 PM (Map & Compass)
Day 2: 10 AM - 5 PM (GPS for Beginners)
Day 3: 10 AM - 3 PM (GPS & BaseCamp Mapping Program)

This is a 2.5 day introductory hands-on course focusing on navigation techniques using a GPS, USGS map, orienteering compass, and Garmin BaseCamp digital mapping program. Though set up as a BUNDLE package, we are offering SOLO course options for Day 1 & Day 2, in the event anyone is time-restricted. We will cover the basic skills necessary for route-planning, navigating and finding one's location in the outdoors. Basic skills will include interpreting topographical map terrain, using a compass with a map, navigating with a compass, setting up a handheld recreational GPS device for operation with a USGS map and a compass, navigating with a GPS, installation of Garmin BaseCamp digital mapping software on a computer, and transferring data between a GPS and BaseCamp.

To get the most out of this experience, we recommend that workshop participants register for all 3 days and bring a laptop with them. Expect and prepare to spend time indoors and outdoors each day. These are "hands on" learning experiences. Upon completion of this course, participants will be better able to determine how to get to a desired destination in the backcountry and figure out where they are when necessary in the outdoor world. This course provides an overall navigation experience.

Garmin eTrex 20x GPS units and orienteering compasses are provided for use during this course. A light lunch, consisting of a "one pot" meal & soup, will be provided Day 2 & 3. Coffee, tea & hot water will be available throughout the course. Participants must provides their own snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, clipboard, writing utensils, and laptop. Come prepared for time indoors and also for outdoors based on weather and environmental conditions each day. Snowshoes are provided during the winter months when necessary. See pricing information below:

Complete BUNDLE Backcountry Navigation Package:
Map & Compass, Basic GPS & BaseCamp Mapping Program - $275/person (begins 12:30pm Day 1 - ends 3pm Day 3)

Mini BUNDLE options:
MINI 1 - Map, Compass & Basic GPS - $185/person (begins 12:30pm Day 1 - ends at 3pm Day 2)
MINI 2 - Basic GPS w/ BaseCamp Mapping Program - $200/person (begins 10am Day 2 - ends 3pm Day 3)

SOLO options:
SOLO 1 - Map & Compass - $85/person (12:30 - 5pm Day 1)
SOLO 2 - Basic GPS - $110/person (10am - 3pm Day 2)

Please note: A minimum of 5 people are necessary to confirm the Complete BUNDLE Backcountry Navigation package OR 6 people per day for the MINI bundle & SOLO classes. Limited to 10 people/class/day. In the event the class minimum is not met for this course, registrants will have the option to register for a class at another time OR request a private session for private session pricing. Advance reservations and pre-payment are required. Lodging is available for reservations made through Adirondack Connections for $75/night for 1-2 people (tax included). Let us know if you would like us to make lodging reservations for you. Click here to register for this course. Please contact us for more information, availability or lodging requests. Thank you!