Navigate with a Compass

Step-by-Step

1. Understand the Parts

   A baseplate compass has a rotating bezel with degree markings, a magnetic needle (red end points north), a direction-of-travel arrow, and orienting lines. Know each part before heading out.

2. Orient Your Map

   Place the compass flat on the map. Rotate map and compass together until the orienting lines align with the map's north lines and the needle points north. Your map is now oriented to the real world.

3. Take a Bearing

   Point the direction-of-travel arrow at your destination on the map. Rotate the bezel until the orienting lines align with north on the map. Read the bearing at the index line.

4. Follow the Bearing in the Field

   Hold the compass level, rotate your body until the magnetic needle aligns with the orienting arrow. The direction-of-travel arrow now points to your destination. Pick a landmark in that direction and walk to it.

5. Account for Declination

   Add or subtract your area's declination from your bearing. East declination: subtract. West declination: add. A chart on any current topographic map shows local declination.

6. Triangulate Your Position

   Take bearings to two or three known landmarks visible from your position. Draw lines from each landmark on your map in the direction of your bearing. Where they intersect is your location.