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Case Study #4

Case: You ran onto a narrow ride slightly below its end and are unsure which of several similar rides you are on. 



Solution: In this situation, the relief profile can assist us. Even if the rides themselves appear similar, the relief profile along each ride differs, providing valuable clues for accurate positioning.

This approach is discussed in Chapter 3 (Using All the Indicators for Confident Positioning) of the book Planning Reliable Routes. It demonstrates that relief can be used not only when we are uncertain about our current location, but also proactively during route planning.

By analysing the map in advance, we can identify segments where linear features intersect with relief forms, creating distinct and easily recognisable points. These can serve as reliable positioning features. Additionally, flat areas and transitions between slopes and level terrain can also support effective location verification.


(Example taken from my book Planning Reliable Routes)

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Make the most of the off-season between 2025 and 2026 — review your navigation system if you're not satisfied with its current quality.
The Confident Orienteering book series -  a systematic approach to minimising errors - will definitely help you with that.

The most detailed analysis of navigation in orienteering:

Book 1: Fundamentals — Understand the causes of mistakes and develop strategies to reduce them.
Book 2: Planning Reliable Routes — Learn how to plan routes that account for a wide range of potential errors.

Aleksandr Alekseyonk, November 27, 2025. 



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