SET Basic Hiking Skills Class – Full Curriculum

Day 1 – Classroom Instruction (0800–1600)

Location: TBD

Students will receive a SET Student Binder and follow along with hands-on lessons and group discussions.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Hiking Safety

  • Why hiking preparedness matters

  • Common mistakes and how to prevent them

• The 10 Essentials

  • What they are, why they matter, and how to pack them

• Hiking Gear Basics

  • How to choose footwear, packs, layers, and seasonal clothing

  • Gear fitting and packing techniques

• Trip Planning & Route Prep

  • How to choose the right trail

  • Estimating time and distance

  • Planning for weather, daylight, and terrain

• Navigation Part 1: Map Reading

  • Understanding topographic maps and trail maps

  • Identifying trail markers, contour lines, and landmarks

• Navigation Part 2: Compass Skills

  • Basic compass parts and use

  • Orienting a map and taking a bearing

• Trail Etiquette & Leave No Trace (LNT)

  • The 7 LNT Principles

  • Trail ethics, wildlife, and conservation

• Emergency Preparation

  • What to do if you’re lost or injured

  • Creating a trip plan and emergency contact sheet

• Intro to Hiking First Aid

  • Basic injury prevention and treatment

  • What should be in your first aid kit

• Q&A and End-of-Day Knowledge Check

Day 2 – Field Training (0800–1600)

Location: TBD

Students will apply what they learned in a real outdoor setting with instructor supervision. Expect moderate hiking with skills demonstrations.

Field Activities:

• Gear Check & Pack Setup

  • Packing a daypack correctly

  • Reviewing gear and clothing choices

• Navigation Practice

  • Orienting a map in the field

  • Using landmarks and terrain features to stay found

  • Taking and following a compass bearing

• Pacing & Distance Estimation

  • How to measure distance using your steps

  • Practice pacing on flat and uneven terrain

• Trail Awareness & Situational Assessment

  • Staying alert and avoiding common trail hazards

  • Identifying trail features and environmental clues

• Leave No Trace in Practice

  • Demonstrating proper waste disposal

  • Trail etiquette in action

• Emergency Signal Practice

  • Using a whistle and mirror

• Basic First Aid Drill

  • Bandaging and splinting

  • Creating an improvised shelter or stretcher

• Wrap-Up Hike and Trail Debrief

  • Reinforcing key takeaways

  • What to do next to continue your hiking education

At the end of Day 2, students will complete a short written and practical assessment to reinforce key concepts. This ensures they’re confident in what they’ve learned and ready to hike safely on their own.

Final Knowledge Test Includes:

• 10 multiple-choice questions

• 2 short scenario questions (e.g. “What would you do if…”)

• Compass demonstration (instructors observe basic bearing use)

• Gear check: students identify essential items and explain use

Upon Successful Completion:

• SET Certificate of Completion issued