Orienteering is the sport of getting lost in the woods with a map and compass, but no GPS. Central New York Orienteering Club will hide markers in the woods and challenge us to see how many we can find. Some runners like to do this as a timed competition, but we will stroll and enjoy pretty places in the park. You don't need to already have map & compass skills, I'll explain as we go.
There is a fee of $8 per map but we can share maps. Or, if you attended the map class at the Women in Nature event last spring and saved your coupon, you get a free map.
What to bring: Hiking boots; hiking poles if you use them - trails can be muddy and slick with fallen leaves. Lunch, water, maybe a hot drink in a thermos. Snacks and drinks are provided at the start and end of the hike, but you may want to bring something easier to carry. The event will be held even in bad weather, so dress to be comfortable. I have extra compasses to share. Binoculars are an option if you like to look for birds.
Directions: Take NYS Route 80 to Highland Forest County Park. Follow the park road up the hill. When the road divides, continue straight through the gate (do not bear left toward Skyline Lodge). Park in the first parking lot on the right, then follow orange signs and streamers toward the buildings and up the hill to Pines Camp. Bathrooms are in the first building on the left.
This free event is open to members and non-members of Women Outdoors. Non-members are invited to join us on two events to see what you think. The third time's a charm - we'll ask you to join Women Outdoors at that point. You can join now by clicking on Join Us.
© Women Outdoors | All Rights Reserved
