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Measure distance with a pace count

Knowing your pace count over 100 m tells you how far you've walked without a GPS.

Navigation 10 min practice

SF Actual — Basic Land Navigation

Step-by-step

  1. Measure or step off 100 meters on flat, open ground.

  2. Walk it at a natural pace, counting every time your left foot lands. That's your pace count.

  3. Typical adult: 60-70 paces per 100 m.

  4. In broken ground, up hills, or with a heavy pack, add 20-30% to your count.

  5. Track distance with pebbles or knots — one per 100 m walked.

Related outdoor skills

Educational reference only. Wilderness conditions change fast — practice in low-stakes settings, take a certified wilderness first-aid course, and confirm regional regulations before you rely on any of these skills in the field.