I’ve always wanted to learn how to navigate with a compass—no batteries, no screens—just good old-fashioned map and compass skills. There’s something empowering about knowing that if my GPS or phone failed, I could still find my way home.
So… I finally did it! I signed up for Mike Blake’s 2-day Wilderness Navigation course and it was incredible.
We kicked off the weekend in East Sooke Regional Park, learning to use mirror compasses and paper maps. The rugged coastline and diverse terrain made it the perfect setting to practice reading topography, taking bearings, and pinpointing our location without relying on tech.
Day two took us to the Sooke Hills Wilderness, where we layered in digital navigation tools while continuing to sharpen our analogue skills. The climb up Mount Braden rewarded us with sweeping views of Vancouver Island, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and even the Olympic Mountains.
Highly recommend this course to anyone who loves the backcountry and wants to feel more confident off-grid. Thanks to Mike for a fantastic experience & ACC VIS Education for organizing for us!
