Night Navigation (evenings)

Sooner or later, anyone who enjoys being outdoors ends up moving in the dark — sometimes by choice, sometimes because plans change, progress is slower than expected, or something has gone wrong.

When visibility drops, navigation itself doesn’t change — but the methods you use do.

This evening session is about learning how to navigate calmly, methodically, and safely when you can’t see very much, and when the environment feels more demanding than it does in daylight.

No previous night navigation experience is required. The session is structured to suit the group on the night, from people trying it for the first time to more experienced walkers wanting to refine their skills.

Night navigation is also one of the best and safest ways to practise reduced-visibility skills. Darkness is guaranteed, unlike fog or snow — and once you can navigate confidently at night, you’re far better prepared for other poor-visibility situations.

Many people are surprised by how enjoyable and confidence-boosting their first experience of night navigation can be.

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What we’ll actually do on the course

This is a practical, instructor-led session, carried out in real night-time conditions — not classroom theory.

You’ll learn how to:

• Plan and follow simple, reliable routes in the dark
• Break journeys into shorter, manageable legs
• Use bearings, pacing, and timing – realistically at night
• Identify and use handrails, attack points, and catching features when visibility is limited
• Recognise slopes, contours, and terrain changes without relying on sight alone
• Adjust pace, decision-making, and expectations for night conditions
• Manage the psychological side of moving in darkness — staying calm, focused, and confident
  
  

We’ll also cover what to do when things don’t go to plan, including escape routes, relocation techniques, and decision points — because good navigation is as much about judgement as it is about technique.

A sensible progression — not a leap into the unknown

Night walking can feel intimidating at first — which is exactly why learning in a structured, supported environment makes such a difference.

The session is designed to build confidence gradually, using terrain and exercises appropriate to the group and the conditions on the night.

You won’t be rushed, and nothing is treated as a race.  The emphasis is on accuracy, safety, and good habits, not speed.

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Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for anyone who enjoys walking outdoors and wants to experience night navigation in a safe, supported environment.

It’s ideal if you:

• Fancy trying night navigation for the first time, under expert supervision
• Walk regularly in the hills and want to be better prepared
• Are confident navigating in daylight but less so at night
• Want to practise reduced-visibility navigation in a controlled, supportive way
• Are working towards awards or assessments, or simply want to improve your personal skills

You don’t need prior experience of night navigation — just a willingness to learn and take things steadily.

If you’ve ever thought “I’d rather not still be out when it’s dark”, this course is designed to change that — safely.

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Equipment & safety

You’ll need the same clothing and equipment you’d carry for a normal hill walk — walking boots, rucksack, warm layers, hot flask, snacks, etc.

We can supply (if needed): map, compass, and head torch. We carry enough for everyone — just ask the instructor when you first meet.

All sessions are led by a fully qualified and insured Mountain Leader, with clear route planning and contingency options throughout the evening.