NNAS Silver Navigation Course at Dartmoor National Park

Designed for those ready to go beyond basic navigation, this 2-day Silver Award course takes place entirely on Dartmoor. You'll learn to navigate across open country using map contour features, compass bearings and route planning strategies.

Key Details

• Group size: 1–15 people
• Duration: 2 full days
• Course type: Navigation skills and assessment
• Award level: NNAS Silver Navigator
• Location: Dartmoor National Park

Key Skills

• Use compass bearings with accuracy, including aiming off and back bearings
• Navigate across open ground using contour interpretation
• Measure and adjust distance using pacing and timing
• Identify and avoid hazards shown on the map and in the terrain
• Plan effective off-path routes with attack points and navigational strategies

What to Expect

You'll begin the course by revisiting key techniques from Bronze level before advancing to more precise navigation methods. This includes understanding how to interpret contour lines in greater detail and how to use compass bearings to follow routes across unmarked terrain. Navigation strategies such as attack points, handrails, and catching features will be introduced to help simplify complex legs of a journey.

On the second day, you’ll put these new skills into action. Working in pairs or small groups, you'll follow a route you've helped plan, incorporating fine navigation techniques in open moorland. You'll also practise relocating if off-track, adjusting bearings to avoid obstacles, and using timing and pacing to gauge distances accurately. The day concludes with feedback and, where successful, awarding of the Silver certificate.

Location

The course is held entirely on Dartmoor, a national park in the Southwest known for its open moorland, granite tors and mix of exposed and sheltered terrain. The varied environment makes it ideal for intermediate navigation training.

Meeting points are selected based on the day's route and weather. You’ll receive full joining details before the course. If you’re travelling from outside the area, we can suggest convenient local accommodation.

Prerequisites

Although the Silver Award develops the skills introduced at Bronze level, completing the Bronze course isn’t a requirement. You’ll need to have some basic map reading and compass experience to benefit fully from this course.

This award suits regular hillwalkers, those interested in leading others outdoors, or anyone wanting more freedom in wild terrain. You should feel confident walking on uneven ground and open country for several hours each day.

Why Choose Us

The centre was founded with the belief that everyone should feel able to access wild spaces with confidence and skill. Its approach is inclusive, practical, and aimed at supporting people of all backgrounds in building navigation knowledge they can use independently.

Courses are deliberately kept relaxed, supportive, and hands-on. Training is shaped by the landscape rather than rigid theory, helping participants to gain real-world experience. With years of experience walking Dartmoor and other UK moorland areas, the instructor is passionate about helping others explore safely and responsibly.