Hiking Skills Course on Dartmoor

This course is designed for beginners, so no advanced fitness level is required. You should be comfortable walking on uneven ground for several hours at a time, as the sessions involve practical navigation and route-finding exercises outdoors. The pace will be relaxed, focusing on learning rather than speed or distance, making it suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.

If you have any health concerns or mobility issues, it’s a good idea to discuss these before booking so the course can be tailored to your needs where possible. The aim is to make the course accessible and enjoyable for everyone while ensuring safety at all times.

Participants should come prepared with suitable outdoor clothing for the weather conditions, including waterproofs and sturdy footwear with good grip. Layers are recommended, so you can adjust your clothing as the weather changes during the day. A rucksack to carry water, snacks, and extra layers is also essential.

Basic navigation tools such as maps and compasses will be provided during the course, so you do not need to bring your own unless you prefer to. It’s a good idea to bring a notebook and pen if you want to take notes, and a mobile phone for emergencies, though coverage can be patchy in some areas.

Navigation is taught through hands-on practice using maps and compasses in real terrain. You’ll learn how to orient a map, follow linear features like paths and rivers, and take compass bearings to navigate between points. The course works towards a Bronze NNAS standard, ensuring you gain recognised skills that can be applied safely on independent walks.

Throughout the sessions, you will be guided step-by-step and encouraged to practise new skills at your own pace. The instructor will adapt the teaching to suit the group’s ability and confidence, making sure everyone understands the techniques clearly before moving on.

Yes, the course is open to all ages with no minimum age restriction. Children and teenagers are welcome to take part, ideally accompanied by a responsible adult if under 16. The course content is designed to be accessible and engaging for a wide age range.

For younger participants, the pace and content can be adjusted to keep things manageable and enjoyable. It’s a great opportunity for families to learn together and build outdoor confidence in a supportive environment.

The course runs in most weather conditions, as learning to manage and understand hill weather is part of the programme. Waterproof clothing and appropriate gear are essential, and the instructor will advise on how to stay safe and comfortable in rain, wind, or colder temperatures.

If extreme weather conditions make it unsafe to continue, the session may be postponed or rescheduled. The instructor will monitor forecasts closely and communicate any necessary changes well in advance to minimise inconvenience.

No prior experience is needed. The course is specifically designed for beginners who want to gain the skills and confidence to plan and complete walks independently. You will start with the basics of map reading, route planning, and safety, progressing at a comfortable pace throughout the two days.

The hands-on approach and supportive teaching style mean that even complete novices can follow along and develop useful skills quickly. You’ll finish with a solid foundation to help you get outdoors more confidently.

Accommodation is not included in the course fee. Participants are responsible for organising their own lodging if they require overnight stays before, during, or after the course. There are a variety of options near Dartmoor, including campsites, B&Bs, and hotels to suit different preferences and budgets.

If you need advice on local accommodation, the instructor can provide recommendations on request. Planning ahead is advisable to secure your preferred option, especially during busier seasons.