Wilderness Navigation - 4th Edition

This premium instructional book featuring 216 full-color glossy pages, emphasizes core and foundational navigation skills using a compass and map.

For thirty years, Wilderness Navigation has been the official textbook used in outdoor education courses across the country, with more than 150,000 copies sold. Authors Bob Burns and Mike Burns describe essential tools and proven techniques for selecting and interpreting maps, taking and following compass bearings in the field, using an altimeter, and navigating with GPS using an app or dedicated device.  This fourth edition continues to provide an excellent manual on the essential tools and proven techniques of top-notch navigators, while also incorporating the latest innovations in navigation technology and trends.

CHAPTER 1 – Map Basics
CHAPTER 2 – Compass Basics
CHAPTER 3 – Orientation and Navigation
CHAPTER 4 – The Altimeter
CHAPTER 5 – Satellite Navigation & Communication
CHAPTER 6 – Lost
CHAPTER 7 – More about Maps, Compasses & Geomagnetism
CHAPTER 9 – Wilderness Routefinding

New material details guidance on using GPS and other satellite-based navigational products, updates the types and availability of topographical maps, and notes changes in magnetic declination. The authors, seasoned navigators with decades of experience teaching and mountaineering, continue to refine material for clarity, accuracy, and to address suggestions from readers. Each chapter includes a full set of practice problems.  Featured on the front cover is the Suunto MC-2 Sighting Mirror Compass.

This fully updated fourth edition includes: 

• Full-color maps to highlight real-life orientation methods and challenges
• Detailed descriptions and comparison charts of recommended tools, including personal locator beacons and satellite communicators
• Navigation exercises and practice problems
• Guidance for adapting skills and techniques for a wide range of outdoor activities

SKU: 978-1-68051-721-7
Weight: 14.1 oz 
Dimensions: 8.5in x 5.5in
Pages: 216
Paper: Color/Glossy
Cover: Paperback
Published: April 22, 2025