The invention of the compass changed the world. With this revolutionary device, sailors were able to navigate more accurately. Oceans were crossed, and new lands were discovered. Even with today's technological innovations, travelers still depend on compasses to lead them in the right direction.
Being able to use a map and compass is a valuable skill that can be used in numerous outdoor activities. Navigating through the woods is only one situation, but there are many others, such as finding directions on a car trip, accurate navigating across open water while boating, or pinpointing a hot fishing spot. Map and compass abilities are not only fun, they are easily taught to kids and provide skills that will prove useful for years.
If there is one piece of equipment that every outdoor person should always carry, it's the compass. It doesn't matter if you hike the mountains or fish your favorite lake: a compass can get you where you want to go -- and back again.
Map and compass language can leave a novice wondering what it all means. But
navigational terms, such as magnetic declination diagram, hydrographic and
hypsographic features, and orienting lines sound more intimidating than they are.
