Feeling lost in a technological world where GPS reigns supreme, maybe it's time to get back to the basics. Forest Ridge Park is offering a Wilderness Navigation Series for those interested in learning the age-old art of map and compass navigation. Over the course of four classes, an experienced instructor will guide attendees from the fundamentals up to advanced navigation skills.

Scheduled for Tuesdays – starting January 14 and continuing on February 11, March 11, April 8 – these sessions aim to equip outdoor enthusiasts with the know-how to find their way through the wild, and maybe gain confidence to explore off the beaten path. The price, set at $15 per session, makes this an accessible skill-building opportunity for all interested parties aged 14 and above. According to City of Raleigh, "Come and join an experienced instructor as they teach the basics of using a map and compass through more advanced skills, so you can stay found and get where you want to go while in the wilderness."

Learning to navigate without the use of electronic devices is not only a valuable survival skill but also offers a chance to connect more intimately with nature. In an age of instant location tracking and automated routes, the classes aim to bring a sense of self-reliance and adventure back to outdoor activities. Whether for preparing for unexpected situations during a hike or for engaging more deeply with the environment, the knowledge imparted could be the compass point leading to more rewarding wilderness escapes.

The sessions, held at the scenic Forest Ridge Park from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m, promise to provide participants with the techniques for map reading, understanding topographical symbols and mastering orienteering with a compass. Interested individuals, at any level of experience, are encouraged to sign up for the series to ensure their spot. With space possibly limited, those looking to transform how they trek into the great outdoors should act quickly to take advantage of this unique offering.