SMOC Huron Meadows
April 3rd 2022 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Map: Huron Meadows
We will have pre printed maps and electronic punching
Join us for SIX courses of orienteering fun around Huron Meadows Metropark! This is one of our best parks for first times - there is a strong network of nice wide trails. You are never too far from a major road or significant trail. Meanwhile, experts will hopefully have worked out any kinks in their technique as there is no time for mistakes!
Pre-Registration only! Register by Friday, 4/1, 5 pm to ensure you get a map!
We charge per "start"/group ($10, reduced to $5 for members with coupon code SMOCMEMBER), not per person, so if you have extra folks in your party, just have them fill out online waiver. An extra map is an extra $5.
NOTE: This is a Huron Clinton Metropark, and requires a separate annual pass from the Recreation Passport. Purchase it at the park office or order online
What is orienteering?
Using a detailed topographic map, navigate to a series of checkpoints (in order for this event). Race competitively, or enjoy a relaxing nature hike with family or friends - the choice is yours! The route between checkpoints is also your choice - take a longer trail option, or head off cross country across hills and over logs..you decide!
Schedule
11:xx Courses generally are available, but not promised, depending on how long it took to hang flags, etc.
12:00 Courses are definitely open, you can start now
2:00 No more starts
3:00 Courses closed, flags may get pulled at any time. You may wish to start earlier if you are new and/or taking on a difficult course.
Courses Offered
Warm up with a four flag, 500 meter training course, then onto:
White/Beginner - One to two miles (2.2 km straightline, 8 flags). Takes 30-60 minutes to walk. Points are on trails.
Yellow/Intermediate - Two to three miles (2.5 km straightline, 10 flags). Takes 45-90 minutes to walk. Flags are visible from the trail, but on nearby major features.
Orange/Advanced - Three to five miles (4.3 km straightline, 12 flags). Takes 90-120 minutes to walk. Flags are generally not visible from trails. Cross country trail is common/generally necessary at some points.
Brown/Expert Short - Three to four miles (4.4 km straightline, 12 flags). Takes 90-120 minutes to walk (w/out mistakes). This course has the highest technical difficulty - flags are on small features well off trail. Mistakes will take a long time to correct, as strong relocation features are not nearby.
Green/Expert - Four to five miles (5.5 km straightline, 13 flags). Takes 120-150 minutes to walk (w/out many mistakes). This course also has the highest technical difficulty.
Red/Expert Long - Five to seven miles (7.1 km straightline, 19 flags). Takes 150-180 minutes to walk (w/out many mistakes). This course also has the highest technical difficulty.
What to wear
Your mileage may vary; you can't go too wrong with this:
- Long pants
- Long sleeves
- Layers for the temp
- Shoes that can get dirty. Trail running shoes work great (whether you are running or not)
- Shoes for afterwards in case you find mud or marshes
- Snacks and water for on the course
We have loaner compasses if you don't have one.