Warm weather is approaching and summer will be here before we know it. One activity to add to your summer activity list is orienteering. It is an inexpensive activity that is great for all ages and skill levels. Orienteering is sport centered around navigation, where one uses a very detailed map and a compass to find various checkpoints. All orienteering maps use a set of standardized symbols and control descriptions to depict the course and give the participant clues on the locations of the checkpoints. The route between “controls” or checkpoints is not specified, it’s up to the orienteer to determine the best route. The maps are topographical and show land features, vegetation, rocks, water, etc.
Orienteering can be done at many different exercise levels, whether it be a leisurely walk in the park or a race against the clock to complete the course. For little ones, it’s great to frame it as a scavenger hunt or a “treasure hunt” to get some fresh air and keep youth engaged in nature. It also serves a very practical, educational purpose allowing the user to improve their navigational and survival skills.
There are varying course difficulties in orienteering, ranging from extra short/absolute beginner to extra-long/very hard. The difficulty levels are denoted by color-coded courses+. There are also multiple variations of orienteering, the four sanctioned types being: foot orienteering, mountain bike orienteering, ski orienteering, and trail orienteering. However, there is also canoe orienteering, biathlon orienteering, and a few other types that people have participated in.
The International governing body of orienteering, the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) facilitates many competitions. In fact, there is an upcoming Orienteering World Cup held in Østfold, Norway, from April 27-30. There will be three forest races that will kick off the season of 2023. Visit the IOF website for more information.