Duration:
2days
A 2 day course covering all the essentials of Wilderness Navigation techniques.
Operated By:
A two day wilderness course that teaches participants essential outdoor skills – the ability to travel through the bush, the hills and mountains using a map, compass and navigation skills.
This is an informative, adventurous and very practical outdoor experience suitable for complete beginners or those with some prior experience. Learn all about navigation, orienteering, using maps, compasses, GPS and emergency methods using the sun and stars. Fully qualified Instructors will show the way & ensure that at the end of this course you will know your own way!
This course will teach you the necessary skills required to:
- Navigate on & off track with a map & compass
- Understand the features of topographic maps
- Use & maintain an orienteering compass
- Understand the Global Positioning System and use GPS devices
- Plan and prepare for off track walking
Course prerequisites:
- A keen sense of Adventure!
- Bushwalking experience advantageous but not necessary!
What’s included:
- Australia’s most experienced Adventure Guiding & Outdoor Training Specialists
- Nationally Qualified & Highly Experienced Guides
- All Technical Equipment
- Delicious & Nutritious Lunches
Lunch is also provided on this adventure- Please be sure to inform us on your booking form if you have any special dietary requirements!
We meet each day at 166 Katoomba Street, Katoomba (the ASM office) at around 08:45 and we finish each day at around 16:45.
Thanks for your booking!
Feel free to give us a call on 02 4782 2014 if you have any questions.
The ASM Team
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Grant
24 Aug 2025

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linkworx
19 Aug 2025

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katdavies991
14 Jul 2025

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jscottgardner
09 Jun 2025

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523marcus
02 Jun 2025

I definitely struggled the most - I was unexpectedly scared - both of the height and the rocks. The guides were amazing - very calm, let me recover and gently challenged me to get back on the rock. I was so proud as I successfully a rock face each day - something I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to do.
The remainder of the group all did 10 or so climbs a day. The locations were spectacular, the equipment top notch and the lunch was just delicious. But the best part was the social aspect - getting to know the guides and the other climbers. We are booking another weekend now!
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SarahCh456
06 May 2025
Dear ASM as you are aware I completed a private one day navigation course with Michael. Provided the initial training I needed in preparation for a partly off trail hike next year. Perfect. Essential for anyone looking at establishing the required skills in this area. Thank you very much, Andrew.
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Andrew
11 Dec 2024

Liam my guide was very good. Polite and knowledgeable, he taught us well which is not easy for everyone. He had patience but also knew how to speak to less experienced participants. I would definitely recommend ASM to anyone who wants to experience the blue mountains climbing scene.
Not recommended for those with a fear of heights ;)
They have lots of courses and I’m sure they’re all as amazing as the one I did.
They provide all gear and it’s very safe.
Worth the money
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BigDavetheBigD
19 Nov 2024

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Peter
22 Oct 2024

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926jen
15 Oct 2024

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BenjaminJS87
12 Oct 2024

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383amanda
12 Oct 2024
I did the abseiling and canyoning with my boyfriend and we had the absolute best time! We had such a nice bloke as the instructor who made the day so much fun! He even had a lunch for me which is often difficult due to food allergies (gluten, eggs, nuts). He constantly did all safety checks which helped us to feel super safe as we were abseiling! Definitely will be doing again and 100% recommend :)
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Charlotte
05 Oct 2024

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marcus10T
19 Sep 2024
Updated Review:
Now on my sixth trip with ASM, this time on a 117m climb "Sweet Dreams." Liam once again proved to be an outstanding guide, taking the time to teach us climbing technique while ensuring we had a fantastic time. The climb was challenging yet incredibly rewarding, and the good banter along the way made it even more enjoyable.
ASM consistently delivers top-notch experiences, and this trip was no exception. I continue to highly recommend!
Previous review:
This was my fifth trip with ASM, this time with Liam. It was an incredible experience!
Liam was an exceptional guide, providing clear instructions and practical examples that made the learning process engaging and enjoyable. The course was comprehensive, covering essential techniques that every climber should know. I left feeling much more confident in my ability to handle situations while climbing.
Highly recommend!
Now on my sixth trip with ASM, this time on a 117m climb "Sweet Dreams." Liam once again proved to be an outstanding guide, taking the time to teach us climbing technique while ensuring we had a fantastic time. The climb was challenging yet incredibly rewarding, and the good banter along the way made it even more enjoyable.
ASM consistently delivers top-notch experiences, and this trip was no exception. I continue to highly recommend!
Previous review:
This was my fifth trip with ASM, this time with Liam. It was an incredible experience!
Liam was an exceptional guide, providing clear instructions and practical examples that made the learning process engaging and enjoyable. The course was comprehensive, covering essential techniques that every climber should know. I left feeling much more confident in my ability to handle situations while climbing.
Highly recommend!
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David
12 Aug 2024
I just took my two kids (15 and 12) on a four day mountaineering course with Pedro from ASM.
We had the most amazing time, conquered our fears and learned some awesome new skills climbing, abseiling and hiking.
Pedro was the consummate professional guide, always making me feel comfortable that my kids were in the safest possible hands and taking no shortcuts or risks, all the while providing tips and advice to ensure we had an amazing adventure and that we pushed ourselves to improve our climbing.
Thank you so much for the best 4 days in the mountains!!
We had the most amazing time, conquered our fears and learned some awesome new skills climbing, abseiling and hiking.
Pedro was the consummate professional guide, always making me feel comfortable that my kids were in the safest possible hands and taking no shortcuts or risks, all the while providing tips and advice to ensure we had an amazing adventure and that we pushed ourselves to improve our climbing.
Thank you so much for the best 4 days in the mountains!!
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Brad
15 Jul 2024

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CarmenDenniss
24 Apr 2024

Initially hesitant, my son not only completed the first level but also confidently repeated the higher levels several times! Thanks to Liam's patient guidance, he left feeling confident and eager to show off his new skills.
Big thanks to Liam and ASM for such a great day. We highly recommend them for anyone interested in abseiling, no matter your skill level. They ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience!
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Harsh
22 Apr 2024
We (group of 5) had a great day learning to abseil then going down the Empress Canyon- it was definitely immersive and recommended as a one day max fun experience -photos are the morning, you need to google the canyon
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Virginia
29 Mar 2024

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Andrea
27 Mar 2024

5 stars all round.
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AIDEN
11 Mar 2024
We recently embarked on a one-day private guided climbing adventure with the Australian School of Mountaineering, and it was an experience that surpassed all expectations. From start to finish, every aspect of our day was great.
First and foremost, our instructor (Mike) was absolutely phenomenal. Not only was he (obviously) an expert but he was patient, kind, and helped bolster our confidence making the trip a genuinely fun day out.
As requested, we learned the intricacies of lead climbing and lead belaying, skills that we had been eager to acquire. Mike took the time to ensure that we understood each technique thoroughly, providing personalised guidance every step of the way. Not being the most advanced climbers, it was great to be put at ease and get to tackle beginner routes.
If you're considering embarking on a mountaineering adventure, I'd 100% recommend the Australian School of Mountaineering—you won't be disappointed.
First and foremost, our instructor (Mike) was absolutely phenomenal. Not only was he (obviously) an expert but he was patient, kind, and helped bolster our confidence making the trip a genuinely fun day out.
As requested, we learned the intricacies of lead climbing and lead belaying, skills that we had been eager to acquire. Mike took the time to ensure that we understood each technique thoroughly, providing personalised guidance every step of the way. Not being the most advanced climbers, it was great to be put at ease and get to tackle beginner routes.
If you're considering embarking on a mountaineering adventure, I'd 100% recommend the Australian School of Mountaineering—you won't be disappointed.
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Amy
08 Mar 2024

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OceanDweller59
04 Mar 2024

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Y6125KSandrew
01 Mar 2024
This was my second time doing the Canyon and Abseiling trip and absolutely loved it again! Our guide Rob and James were absolutely delightful and a lot of fun. They shared photos and laughs and educational facts. Very much recommend!
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Ella
29 Feb 2024
This was a day well spent. ASM was extremely organised and the day went by in a flash. The direction provided by our guides with each abseil was spot on and made it easy and fun. Even though I have done this canyon before I learned new things yesterday. Highly recommend ASM. Loved it!
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Marcelle
20 Jan 2024
Hubby & I did the Empress Canyon with Luca - first-time canyoners & no detail was spared in getting us trained up in the morning for the real thing in the afternoon. Luca triple checked everything for safety, we felt very looked after & had a brilliant experience, highly recommend ASM.
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Lucy
30 Dec 2023
I took part in the small group rock climbing course. I wanted to learn the basics of top roping and all the safety checks and rules. It was an amazing day and the instructors were fantastic. Our group had people who had done some climbing and some who had never climbed before. The instructors were so encouraging and motivated all of us, getting the best climbs out of us. I have already recommended the company to friends, highly recommend it! Also they provided a really tasty lunch for us. And the views were incredible!
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Ana
17 Dec 2023

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Anatralaladol
17 Dec 2023

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AnnieW1961
16 Dec 2023
Me and 4 friends booked a day of personal guiding (climbing) to work on our sport climbing. The day was set out perfectly and covered everything we needed to know to be confident leading outdoors on our own. Definitely recommend!
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William
12 Dec 2023
Well and truly got our money's worth. Ace crew! All instructors' great communicators, good vibe, helpful clear info. Lauren Sammy and Mike all amazing. Big shoutout out to Mike, all round good bloke who showed The Scallywags a great day out and put up with all The Scallywags trash track banter.
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Liam
10 Dec 2023

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SamTidswell
07 Dec 2023
Last weekend we completed the Introduction to Rock Climbing course with ASM and it was awesome. Rob, Sammi and Jimmy are incredibly talented, cool and competent guides. They struck the perfect balance in challenges us, helping us with our technique and all the while making sure we felt safe. It was the best weekend. The landscape was so beautiful as well. So sore at the end of it and feeling so accomplished! We highly recommend this course to anyone who has bouldered or climbed indoors and was thinking about trying outdoors, or to anyone who just wants a great time.
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Lindsay
21 Nov 2023

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Adam
14 Nov 2023

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1Dan888
06 Nov 2023
Had an epic day out yesterday abseiling and canyoning (empress falls) with Mike and Mika (not sure about the spelling ????) from the start they instilled a calm confidence and at no point did we feel unsafe at all. My partner who was hesitant to say the least, did things she thought she never would and is now talking about going back to do serendipity! Wouldn't change a thing about the day and that includes the insanely good sandwiches for lunch! Thanks so much guys!
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Benny
29 Oct 2023
I recently attended the Introductory Rock Weekend with ASM.
Sammy and Josiah were both clearly very experienced and competent guides. Combined with their good humor everyone was very quickly at ease.
Climbing locations were great, with a good variety and challenge for the group.
Techniques and safety were explained well.
Lots to practice to do now so I can eventually do the intermediate course.
Sammy and Josiah were both clearly very experienced and competent guides. Combined with their good humor everyone was very quickly at ease.
Climbing locations were great, with a good variety and challenge for the group.
Techniques and safety were explained well.
Lots to practice to do now so I can eventually do the intermediate course.
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Todd
26 Oct 2023
The only reason I'm giving a 3star review is because the owner of the company knew the van door was dodgy and didn't get it fixed- the door wouldn't shut! So we all had to drive ourselves to the various spots on our tour.
Having said that, our tour guide Dave gets a 10 star review for his expertise, ability to make everyone feel comfortable and his attention to detail and safety. Dave, we really wish we could have bought you a beer today. We had such a great day and it was all down to you. Thank you so much!
Having said that, our tour guide Dave gets a 10 star review for his expertise, ability to make everyone feel comfortable and his attention to detail and safety. Dave, we really wish we could have bought you a beer today. We had such a great day and it was all down to you. Thank you so much!
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Hollie
14 Oct 2023

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Jesscoughlan88
09 Oct 2023

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Donnib
28 Sep 2023

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Frederic
25 Sep 2023
I Just completed the 2-day abseiling course at the Australian School of Mountaineering with Lewis and Lauren, This course deserves a solid 5-star rating!
The course itself was well-structured and covered all the essential aspects of abseiling. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, the instructors tailored their guidance to suit each individual's skill level. They created a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that boosted everyone's confidence.
The practical hands-on experience was the highlight of the course. We had the opportunity to tackle various abseiling challenges under the guidance of Lewis and Lauren. It was thrilling, and I felt safe throughout thanks to their constant feedback.
Not only did I gain valuable abseiling skills, made new friends, but I also left with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the Australian wilderness. The course location was stunning, and Lewis and Lauren shared their passion for the outdoors, making the experience even more enriching.
Overall, I can't recommend the Australian School of Mountaineering's abseiling course enough. Lewis and Lauren are fantastic instructors who genuinely care about their students' success and safety. If you're looking for an exhilarating adventure and the chance to learn from the best, this course is a must-try. Five stars all the way!
The course itself was well-structured and covered all the essential aspects of abseiling. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, the instructors tailored their guidance to suit each individual's skill level. They created a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that boosted everyone's confidence.
The practical hands-on experience was the highlight of the course. We had the opportunity to tackle various abseiling challenges under the guidance of Lewis and Lauren. It was thrilling, and I felt safe throughout thanks to their constant feedback.
Not only did I gain valuable abseiling skills, made new friends, but I also left with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the Australian wilderness. The course location was stunning, and Lewis and Lauren shared their passion for the outdoors, making the experience even more enriching.
Overall, I can't recommend the Australian School of Mountaineering's abseiling course enough. Lewis and Lauren are fantastic instructors who genuinely care about their students' success and safety. If you're looking for an exhilarating adventure and the chance to learn from the best, this course is a must-try. Five stars all the way!
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Ben
24 Sep 2023
This was our first time abseiling and canyoning and we were very well looked after and trained each step of the way. It was the best thing ever! We had David as our guide and he made the day fantastic!! It was even more awesome as it was just us 3 in the group. Very fun and intimate. What a great adventure we had! We enjoyed the lunch, the views, Davids patience, general bush knowledge and great human facts. We could have sat and talked with him for hours.
The location was beautiful, loved Juggler Canyon and we made it back by 4pm as David said we would, and we slept so well that night! Great memories, we will be back.
The location was beautiful, loved Juggler Canyon and we made it back by 4pm as David said we would, and we slept so well that night! Great memories, we will be back.
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Laura
24 Sep 2023

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olivergowerbrown
04 Sep 2023

Our guide was Mike who was very observant and detail oriented. Over the three days I got a sense of his deep knowledge and enthusiasm for climbing safety systems. He spent the first day getting a read on our crack climbing skills and then worked with us to build a new skillset for leading trad. Like all good teachers he listened a lot and worked hard to figure out where the gaps in our knowledge were. He was always very patient with our questions and thoughts and he had good stories to tell. I would love to go climbing with him again.
My favourite parts of the trip were:
- 'dead roping' on trad gear, ie. mock leading on top-rope placing gear as you go.
- When Mike rapped back down with us after an ascent and inspected every gear placement we had made. This was gold.
If I had any advice to prepare for this course to get the most out of it I'd say:
1. Spend a few months focussing on crack climbing in hand jams and off-widths.
2. Have a go at placing a bunch of gear on top rope at the sport crag (even if its just affordable nuts or hexes) .
3. Bring a stack of questions and mysteries to discuss.
4. Emotionally prepare to be humbled by "vintage" 1960's route grading.
No need to buy gear before the course. The course is a great way to get your hands on different types of trad gear to get a feel for what you like.
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Pat
24 Aug 2023

We were lucky enough to be instructed by Brian absolute legend and fantastic teacher, who took the time to go over and over the training we needed.
2 days training on a cliff and 2 day running a canyon . If you want to feel alive sign up thanks ASM thank Brian .
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Paul
16 Aug 2023

I signed up for the Abseil 3 course - a 2 day abseiling course focused on teaching participants how to rig an abseil safely and conduct rescues of others experiencing difficulties.
I had such an awesome time that I decided to extend my session to the Abseil 4 course, which included an additional 2 days of canyoning and running through a canyon using these skills we had learnt over the past 2 days.
This course was so much fun and I now feel much more confident to go canyoning and abseiling recreationally.
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shonaf816
15 Aug 2023

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Carina_Olsen
10 Aug 2023

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emilyjude23
26 Apr 2023

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zoltann781
20 Apr 2023

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IP2210
11 Apr 2023
I did the Abseiling adventure with Scott and it was absolutely amazing. Scott is the best guide ever - HIGHLY recommend. I’m someone who doesn’t do a lot of outdoor adventure and is scared of heights and somehow Scott made me feel comfortable enough to get through all the courses and some extra bonus bits as well. Great day 1 definitely going to try out some other adventures offered by the company.
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Sneha
01 Apr 2023
I did the full-day hiking, abseiling & canyoning tour of Serendipity Canyon with ASM on Saturday. The team was brilliant from start to finish - professional, knowledgable and a lot of fun. They took the time to ensure everyone in our large group was fully prepared before we set off. Throughout the day, the guides were supportive, shared extensive knowledge of the environment and skills to safely navigate the canyon. I would absolutely recommend!
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Helen
27 Mar 2023

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stevehudson2020
22 Mar 2023

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kb0wden92
28 Feb 2023

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Todd90
27 Feb 2023

We can’t thank Brian and the team enough for this bucket list trip
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laurenhunt2023
14 Feb 2023

We will definitely be back!
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lk99255060
06 Feb 2023

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WanderR78
31 Jan 2023