3 Day - Mountain Skills & Wild Camp

COURSE OUTLINE
This is a 3 day mountain skills course that can run with up to 4 people.  This course will take a holistic approach to mountain skills, we are looking to teach you all areas of hill walking and camping.  We will do one introductory day and undertake a mountain journey before heading onto the hill for a one night mini expedition where we will focus on our navigation and campcraft skills. 
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The course will meet at Honister Slate Mine and we will undertake a mountain journey from there.  Our mini expedition makes use of the Central Fells.  We can leave for the Central Fells from either of the following locations; Great Langdale, Honister, Seathwaite, Langstrath. 

Day 1 will be an introductory day looking at planning, packing, equipment and navigation techniques so we are ready to undertake a 1 night, 2 day expedition in the mountains. We will finish with enough time for people to pack their bags for the expeditions and go to the shops to pick up any last minute extras.

On day 2 & 3, we will meet with our bags packed ready to spend a night on the hill, putting into practice all that we learned on day 1 & 2. The course will offer full mountain immersion and is the opportunity to gain knowledge about the environment and how to look after yourself in the remote landscape, staying overnight in your tent.

SKILLS COVERED:
Planning
How to successfully plan a walk in the mountains in the UK or Ireland.

Walking skills
What things should you consider while out walking and what can make life easier (pace, nutrition, movement skills, steep ground etc.).

Clothing and equipment
Being suitably dressed and equipped can make the difference between a great day out and a complete disaster.

Weather
How it affects the mountains and your day out.

Navigation in the mountains
Everything from selecting a compass and using a map to navigation in poor visibility and an intro to GPS.

Environmental knowledge
How to minimise your impact on the hill, information on good practice and useful organisations.

Hazards and emergency procedures in the mountains
How to respond to any hazards you encounter and what to do in an emergency.

Expedition food
What to bring, eat and cook. Discussion around expedition meals such as dehydrated or freeze dry meals.

Nutrition and cooking
Discussion about stoves, different styles and gas. Management of cooking systems and best uses.

Camp management
Where to pitch tents and how to choose a good campsite. Pitching tents effectively. Water considerations.

Expedition equipment selection, use and care
Selections of tents, stoves, sleeping mats, sleeping bags and rucksacks for efficient packing.

Navigation techniques for night and poor visibility
There is potential for night navigation exercise overnight