Everyone is Welcome!
Do you enjoy hiking, solving puzzles, or exploring a park? Orienteering combines all three into a fun outdoor adventure.
The 2026 Masters Nationals & Corn Maze Challenge is not just for elite competitors. Throughout the weekend, we’ll also offer beginner-friendly courses designed for first-time participants, families, and anyone looking for a fun outdoor adventure. No experience is required.
What is Orienteering?
Orienteering is an outdoor navigation adventure. Using a detailed map (and optionally a compass), you’ll navigate to a series of checkpoints in the correct order. Think of it as a real-life treasure hunt where you choose your own route. You can walk, hike, jog, or run at whatever pace is comfortable.
Is this event only for expert competitors?
Not at all! While many experienced orienteers will be competing in the Masters National Championships, beginner courses will also be available throughout the weekend. You’ll be participating on courses designed specifically for newcomers. Volunteer instructors will be available before you start to explain everything you need to know.
Can I participate in just one of the event days?
Absolutely. Come to the corn maze on Friday, try forest orienteering on Saturday or Sunday, or do all three.
Getting Started
Which course should I choose?
For the corn maze challenge, choose “Rec” (Recreational) for kids under 16 or if you are looking for a non-competitive option. Otherwise, select the course during registration that corresponds to your age.
For the Saturday & Sunday forest events, choose one of the following recreational courses based on your experience and desired level of challenge. Most first-time participants choose White or Yellow.
White Course
- Perfect for beginners and families
- Uses only main park trails
- No previous experience needed
- Choose Rec-White during registration
Yellow Course
- Great second step or for slightly more adventurous beginners
- Mostly on trails
- Several short off-trail sections to find checkpoints
- Choose Rec-Yellow during registration
Orange Course
- Intermediate difficulty
- Requires map reading and off-trail navigation
- Best if you’ve tried orienteering before and want a bigger navigation challenge
- Choose Rec-Orange during registration
What do I need to bring?
Just a few simple things:
- Comfortable walking or running shoes
- Clothing appropriate for the weather
- Long pants are recommended for yellow and orange courses, since they include some off-trail travel.
- A sense of adventure
We’ll provide the map and instruction. Electronic timing cards are available to rent for a small fee.
Do I need a compass?
Nope! We will have loaner compasses available, but most beginners complete their first course without using one. We’ll explain when a compass becomes helpful as your skills improve.
Will someone be available to help with instruction?
Yes! Before you head out on your course, event volunteers will explain how to read the map, how the electronic timing works, and answer any questions you have. Most first-time participants are ready to start after some short instruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate with friends or family?
Absolutely! Beginners are encouraged to complete their first course together. It’s a great family activity and an enjoyable way to learn the sport.
How long are the courses?
Course distances are measured as if you traveled in a straight line from checkpoint to checkpoint. In reality, you will choose your own route, so most people will travel farther than the listed distance. For beginner courses, expect about 2 miles of walking or running.
How much time does it take?
At a leisurely pace, beginner courses will likely take about an hour. Allow some additional time for checking in and getting instruction. When on the course, your time is recorded, but there is no pressure to hurry. Race if you’d like, or take your time – the goal is to have fun.
Is there an age limit?
No. Children, adults, and seniors all enjoy orienteering. Young children should participate with an adult. Otherwise if you can walk the main park trails you can easily complete a white course.
Do I have to be in great shape?
Not at all. Beginner courses can be walked at a comfortable pace.
What if I get lost?
Beginner courses are designed to stay within well-defined areas of the park, making it difficult to become seriously lost. Before you start, volunteers will explain what to do if you become unsure of your location.
Do I need to register in advance?
We strongly recommend registering in advance. You’ll save money, guarantee that a map is available for you, and help us prepare enough equipment and volunteers. Walk-up registration is available for recreational courses only as space and maps permit.
Do I have to be a member to participate?
No membership is required. Members of NEOOC and Orienteering USA receive discounts at many events, but anyone can participate in the Masters Nationals weekend.
What if it rains?
Orienteering takes place rain or shine. Dress appropriately for the forecast. Many participants find that exploring outdoors in light rain is part of the adventure!
Ready to Give It a Try?
Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a new outdoor hobby, or your first orienteering adventure, we’d love to have you join us.
Next Steps
- Learn about the weekend’s events.
- Preregister online (highly recommended).
- Bring comfortable clothes and a sense of adventure.
- We’ll help you with the rest!
We look forward to seeing you this September!