Mountain Skills 1 and 2 is a nationally accredited course by the Mountain Training Board of Ireland and is delivered in an upland environment.
The aim of this course is to help you learn the skills you need to get out hiking: independently, safely, responsibly in the mountains of Ireland, the UK and beyond.
You will learn how to navigate with confidence using a map, a compass and proper hiking equipment in any weather conditions during daytime, in poor visibility or at night (MS2).
At the end of this course, you will have taken a big step forward in developing your own self-confidence and enjoyment in hiking.
Note: Some hiking experience is essential before joining the scheme. However, you don’t need to be an expert.
Registration with Mountaineering Ireland is essential in order to take part in the Mountain Skills scheme mountaineering.ie/awardreg/
Registration fee is €31 and covers:
– Access to the full Mountain Skills Scheme (MS, MS2 and MS Assessment)
– A digital and/or paper Logbook setting out the scheme and allowing to track your progress
– A discounted Mountaineering Ireland membership fee of €35, if you wish to join at the time of registration.
Any explanation and information will be given to you on training day.
Mountain Skills 1 & 2
wHAT TO EXPECT
Mountain Skills 1. (2 days)
Introduction and presentation of instructor and Mountaineering Ireland.
Maps and Map’s scales
Map reading, land and ground features
Contours and contour lines
Land features and ground features
Navigation Legs
Setting/orientating the map
Simple navigation techniques
Direction and Distance Estimation
The 5 D’s
Mountain Hazards: weather, human, topographic.
Grid reference
Timing and Pacing
Introduction to compass
Route planning
Route card
Mountain Skills 2. (2 days)
Maps and map scales
Contours and contour lines
Timing and pacing
Introduction to compass
Compass bearing and magnetic variation
Measuring a bearing from map by estimation
Setting / orientating the map
3 methods for self-location
Navigation Techniques
Mountain Hypothermia
Recognition and Treatment
Emergency Procedures
Treatment of casualty
Late at night
Safe movement skills
Rivers and streams crossing
Each course is €120 / person, €100 for under 18/students and small groups from 4 up to 6 people.
The course includes;
course notes
tea breaks provided,
a free hiking day practice (as part of a weekend in the West of Ireland),
few route cards for you to practice.
A tent and a stove (optional in Spring -Summer-Autumn for MS2 courses)
