Introduction to Orienteering

Called “the art of map and compass reading,” this recreational activity dates back more than 100 years by using “low-tech” tools to navigate the landscape. Often held as a competitive, timed event participants navigate a course using a map and compass, documenting their progress along the course by punching a card at points along the course.

This program is designed to be an introduction to orienteering, and no prior experience is required. The program will begin with approximately 30 minutes of instruction, and courses will take 1-2 hours to complete. Course monitors will keep track of times, but the event is not competitive, and very family friendly. A beginner course and a more challenging score-orienteering course will be available. In score-orienteering, flags with varying point values are put out without a set course and the goal is to collect as many points as possible in set time.

All required materials will be supplied, but feel free to bring a compass if you have one.