Description
Knowing how to measure distance on a topographic map is an essential navigation skill for any bushwalker or hiker. Whether you're planning a day walk or a multi-day trek, understanding how far you'll actually travel -- including all those twists and turns -- makes a real difference to your trip planning.
In this tutorial, I'll show you a few simple, practical techniques for measuring distance on topo maps using tools you likely already have, including the 'paper method'.
You'll learn:
How to use the map's scale bar effectively
Measuring straight sections vs curved tracks
This is one of the techniques I can teach in my navigation courses. It's straightforward, doesn't require fancy equipment, and once you've practised it a few times, it becomes second nature.
For more navigation skills, check out my book "How to Navigate" or explore other tutorials on the channel.
Links:
How to Navigate book: https://lotsafreshair.com/product/how-to-navigate-3rd-edition-2025/
Navigation Courses: https://lotsafreshair.com/navigation-course-blue-mountains/
BUY my scale ruler LANYARD or ROMER: https://lotsafreshair.com/shop/
#MapReading #NavigationSkills #Bushwalking #HikingSkills #TopographicMaps