How to Read a Mountaineering Compass

A mountaineering compass is also known as an orienteering compass. This type of compass is commonly used for hikers and backpackers who need to keep their bearings while on the trail or in the wild. The needle on this type of compass has two sides; one red side that always points due North and another side, usually white or black in color, that points south. Markings on the dial show the direction you are pointing as you change direction.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the compass about waist high directly in front of you with the red directional line on the housing of the compass pointing straight out in front of you. The housing of the compass should be held flat to get the most accurate reading.

    • 2

      Turn your body while holding the compass until the red arrow lines up with the directional line on the compass housing. The compass will now be pointing North.

    • 3

      Turn to your right while holding the compass. Notice that the red arrow remains pointing North but the directional line is now lined up with the East marking on the compass dial. As long as the directional line on the housing of the compass is pointing in front of you, the reading on the compass dial is the direction you are traveling.