Detailed Hike Description

You’ve heard about orienteering, “The thinking person’s sport,” and maybe even been intrigued and thought about trying it, but not known where to start. Cayuga Trails Club is very fortunate that Eric and Mary Smith, of the Central New York Orienteering Club (CNYO), have volunteered to show us how to get started.

They will start by providing an explanation of what orienteering is, the objectives and tips on how to navigate using only a map and compass. Following that, we will all follow an orienteering course to put the theory into practice. For those that want to give their new-found skills a test, there will also be a number of controls that you will be able to find on your own. If you have a compass with a base plate (the rectangular plastic plate on which the compass is mounted) please bring it. There will be a few loaners available, but not enough for everybody.

Eric and Mary have been orienteering for decades and have won medals at World Orienteering Championships on four continents. They will be leaving the following week for World Orienteering Championship in the Czech Republic. They are both enthusiastic advocates for bringing new people into the sport.

Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring water, insect repellent if you use it, and a sandwich or snack.

If you will have trouble navigating to the trailhead, contact the hike leader at the email address above.

Check this space the morning of the hike for any changes or a cancellation.