Outdoors & Adventure · Observing & Recording
Orienteering
Map, compass, checkpoints, and the fastest runner does not always win
The difference from trail running is that navigation is the contest: you choose your own route, and one misread junction cannot be outrun. Beginner courses are clearly marked, so a first attempt will not lose you. Local clubs run weekend events cheaply and hand out the map on the day. The kit is trail shoes and a compass.
First stepEnter the beginner course at a local club's weekend event, pick up the map on the day, and find every control with a compass.
Barriers
Cost to start
Under $50
Going deep → $300–2k
Alone or with people
On your own
Effort
Demanding
Without a teacher?
Self-taught
One session takes
Half a day
Where
Outdoors, free
Why people take it up