Importance of learning Navigation

Exploring hills, moorlands, and mountains is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with the outdoors. Whether you're heading out for a peaceful day walk or a multi-day adventure, one skill stands above all for safety, confidence, and enjoyment: navigation.

Learning to navigate with a map and compass—supported by good planning, observation, and decision-making—transforms every outdoor experience. Add to that the right instructor and a recognized training framework, and you have the perfect recipe for developing truly reliable skills.

Below, we explore the benefits of learning navigation, why the NNAS framework matters, and why Martin - SouthwestGuides is an exceptional choice for your navigation journey.

Why Learn Navigation?

1. Safety and Self-Reliance

Mountain weather can change dramatically in minutes. Mist, rain, snow, or fading daylight can make paths vanish and landmarks disappear. Solid navigation skills empower you to:

• Know exactly where you are

• Avoid hazards and difficult terrain

• Make safe decisions in poor visibility

• Find escape routes if plans change

Navigation is your essential mountain safety skill.

2. Freedom to Explore Beyond the Paths

Navigation skills allow you to venture away from the crowds and discover your own adventure. You’ll be able to:

• Explore quieter ridges and valleys

• Create your own routes

• Journey confidently through remote terrain

Navigation gives you the freedom to truly explore.

3. Reduced Dependence on Technology

GPS devices are brilliant—until they aren’t. Batteries die, screens crack, and signals fail. Map-and-compass skills ensure you can:

• Stay in control without relying on electronics

• Use digital tools more intelligently

• Understand the terrain rather than just following a line

Navigation is your reliable, always-available backup.

4. Greater Confidence and Enjoyment

With navigation confidence, the hills become less intimidating and far more enjoyable. You’ll walk with:

• More certainty

• Better decision-making

• Greater independence

• Deeper appreciation of your surroundings

Confidence transforms the entire experience.

5. A Deeper Connection with the Landscape

Navigation teaches you to read the land like a story. You start to understand:

• How contour lines represent real-world shapes

• How rivers, ridges, and valleys guide movement

• How weather interacts with the terrain

• How history shapes the land you walk through

This enhances every single journey.

6. Better Planning and Decision-Making

Good navigation begins before you even start walking. Planning skills help you:

• Choose routes suited to conditions and ability

• Estimate timings

• Identify escape routes

• Prepare for changing weather

Preparation is the foundation of safe mountain travel.

7. A Gateway to Bigger Adventures

With solid navigation skills, you’re ready for:

• Winter mountaineering

• Scrambling

• Multi-day expeditions

• Leadership training

• Volunteering opportunities

Navigation unlocks the mountains.

What Is the NNAS and Why Does It Matter?

The National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) is a nationally recognised training programme designed to help people learn confidence-building navigation skills. It offers structured, progressive learning with clear standards, making it ideal for beginners through to experienced walkers.

Key benefits of the NNAS:

• Clear progression: Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels that build logically from basics to advanced navigation.

• Nationally recognised: Certificates that demonstrate your skill and achievement.

• Practical, hands-on learning: All levels focus on real-world skills used out on the hill.

• Confidence-building: Each level improves your ability to plan, navigate, and make decisions independently.

• Suitable for all abilities: Whether you're starting out or sharpening your skills, the NNAS provides the right level of challenge.

What each level typically covers:

Bronze:

• Basic map skills

• Understanding symbols and scales

• Simple navigation using features and paths

Silver:

• Contour interpretation

• Navigation away from paths

• Poor visibility strategies

• Accurate compass work

Gold:

• Advanced navigation in complex terrain

• Micro-navigation techniques

• Relocation strategies

• Movement planning in all conditions

NNAS awards are ideal for anyone wanting structured learning—and Martin Cracknell delivers them with professionalism and passion.

Why Learn with Martin - SouthwestGuides?

Learning navigation is most effective when guided by a skilled and supportive instructor. Here’s why Martin - SouthwestGuides stands out.

1. Extensive Real-World Mountain Experience

Martin has years of experience navigating in all conditions across the UK's mountain environments. His knowledge is practical, relevant, and rooted in real-life scenarios—not just theory.

2. Supportive, Calm, and Confidence-Building Teaching Style

Martin creates a relaxed learning environment where no question is too small, and no one feels left behind. His patient, friendly approach helps learners build confidence step by step.

3. Fully Practical, Outdoor-Based Instruction

Martin teaches navigation where it matters—out in real terrain. Expect hands-on experience with:

• Map and compass use

• Contour navigation

• Pacing and timing

• Poor visibility techniques

• Route planning on the hill

Every skill is taught in a realistic, memorable way.

4. Focus on Independence

Martin doesn’t just show you what to do—he helps you understand why. You’ll come away with the ability to make good decisions independently and handle unexpected situations confidently.

5. Tailored Teaching for All Levels

Whether you’re a beginner, aiming for an NNAS award, or looking to refine advanced skills, Martin adjusts the course to your ability and learning style.

6. Genuine Passion for Sharing the Outdoors

Martin brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a deep love for the hills to every course. Learning with him feels like spending a day out with a skilled friend who wants you to succeed.

7. Fantastic Feedback and Proven Results

Learners consistently praise Martin for his clarity, expertise, and reassuring nature. Many leave not just with skills, but with a renewed passion for exploring wild places.

Final Thoughts

Navigation is one of the most empowering skills any hillwalker or mountaineer can learn. It increases safety, boosts confidence, enriches your understanding of the landscape, and unlocks the freedom to explore wherever your imagination takes you.

By learning through the NNAS framework, and especially by learning with Martin - SouthwestGuides, you’ll gain high-quality, structured training delivered by someone committed to your confidence, safety, and enjoyment.