NAV 3601 - The Oak Course

(1) Enrollment Requirements: NAV 3101.N

(2) Duration: 7 hours

(3) Format: Field

(4) Course Description: A test of stamina and skill. This large-scale navigation course spans massive acreage and runs continuously through both day and night. Students must manage their energy, hydration, and mental focus over extended hours while tracking multiple points across punishing terrain. By combining a compressed timeline with a deliberate day-to-night light transition, this course demands accuracy and speed as visibility degrades. This course is designed specifically for individuals with moderate to advanced experience in orienteering or land navigation.

(5) Terminal Learning Objectives (TLO):

Participants will be able to:

• TLO 1: Utilize a topographic map, compass, and protractor to accurately plot a designated position under classroom conditions.

• TLO 2: Identify and distinguish terrain features on a standard USGS topographic map.

• TLO 3: Evaluate variable terrain contours to forecast elevation changes along a simulated route.

(6) Course Outline:

• Phase I — Course Brief & Preparation (1 Hour)

  • Instruction: Instructors provide safety and course orientation brief. Participants are assigned designated navigation course lanes.

  • Practical Application: Participants confirm pace counts on designated lanes.

  • Key Topics: Safety, preparation.

• Phase II — The Oak Course (6 Hours)

  • Practical Application: Individual release onto The Oak Course. Participants will traverse the terrain completely isolated, locating distinct coordinates within the allotted time limit.

  • Key Topics: Land navigation, plotting.

(7) Completion & Assessment Requirements:

• This course is an enrollment requirement for additional courses and carries a formal assessment. A detailed summary of standards and expectations is provided in the Welcome Letter and/or by cadre upon arrival.

• Evaluation Standards:

  • Technical Proficiency — Participants must successfully obtain eight (8) of ten (10) points on the navigation course within six (6) hours.

  • Leadership & Character — Adherence to evaluation guidelines and the Code of Conduct.

(8) Awarded Certificates & Identifiers:

• Certificate of Completion

(9) Provided Gear & Materials:

• Topographic map

• Compass

• Protractor

• Pen & pencil

(10) Recommended Gear & Materials (Participant):

• Backpack

• Notebook

• Pace counting beads

• Red lens headlamp (REQUIRED)

• Eye protection (REQUIRED)

• Water source (REQUIRED)