Summer challenges
In summer, routes may seem easier, but high temperatures, low water levels, and dry slopes bring their own risks. Routes over mountain paths are passable but the heat demands more water and a slower marching pace. Plan breaks at water sources and avoid the midday hours in open, sun-exposed terrain. MilMap shows watercourses on the map — use these for rest points and emergency supplies.
Winter navigation: snow and ice
Snow conceals terrain features. Contour lines are still visible on the map, but roads, paths, and markers lie under the snow. Navigate in winter more on the basis of terrain contours (ridges, valleys, watercourses) than on marked paths. Also check whether roads and bridges that are passable in summer are closed in winter.
Frozen water: opportunity and danger
Frozen lakes and rivers can provide shortcuts, but also unexpected hazards. Ice is never uniformly reliable. Note water crossings in MilMap as risk waypoints with a description of the maximum ice load (rule of thumb: 10 cm for a person, 30 cm for a vehicle). Always consider a detour route as an alternative.
Daylight hours and navigation planning
In December, the Netherlands has fewer than eight hours of daylight. Planning rule: calculate not only the walking duration but also the available daylight. In MilMap you set the departure time and see the estimated arrival time. Add an hour of margin in winter navigation for unexpected delays in the dark.
Autumn: wet terrain
After autumn rains, peat areas, stream banks, and forest floors are impassable for vehicles and difficult on foot. Routes that flow quickly in summer can cost hours extra in October. Check satellite imagery of the operational area from the correct season — MilMap synchronises with current satellite layers where available.
Storing seasonal maps
Experienced navigators save season-specific maps. Create separate map versions for winter and summer of the same operational area, with adjusted waypoints (alternative water crossings, snow depots, summer escape routes). Label maps clearly with the season so you do not accidentally use the summer route during a winter exercise.