Crowders Mountain PoInts of Interest
Orienteering - Basic Course

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Orienteering Index

Crowders Mountain State Park
Orienteering Course Information

The orienteering course is approximately 3/4 mile in length and is comprised of 14 different compass degree bearings (see map).

The objective of the course is to become proficient in setting a compass bearing from one marker point to another and traveling to each marker point directly from each bearing.

To reach the beginning of the course follow the Turnback Trail starting at the left corner of the rear parking row in front of the park's visitor center.  Follow the trail approximately 1/4 mile to the intersection sign at the Turnback Trail and Fern Trail.  Follow the Turnback Trail approximately 1/2 mile to the course start/finish sign at the next T intersection.  From there, you will find wooden control marker posts number A-1 through M-13 as you make your way to each marker.  The last bearing (#14) will lead you back to the starting point at the sign.

This is a beginner/basic course with the control post markers placed no further apart than 100 yards.  Several of the markers are much less (see course bearing/degree information).

The course is designed to take a beginner approximately 1 1/2 - 2 hours to complete the entire course.

The terrain is easy to moderately difficult.  Most areas are flat to hilly at times crossing a small stream or a trail.  All markers should be easily seen when approached from the correct compass bearings.

Exercise caution throughout the wooded course as poison oak, poison ivy, stinging insects, ticks, and snakes could be encountered in the warmer months.

Materials Needed

1) Compass
2) Map and course information
3) Comfortable hiking clothes and boots
4) Water is recommended, especially during the warmer months

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A1
 266 Degress W
 100 Yards
B2
 37 Degress NE
 100 Yards
C3
 335 Degress NW
 70 Yards
D4
 28 Degress NE
 90 Yards
E5
 93 Degress E
 100 Yards
F6
 182 Degress S 80 Yards
G7
 237 Degress SW
 100 Yards
H8
 215 Degress SW
 90 Yards
I9
 306 Degress W
 60 Yards
J10
 335 Degress W
 90 Yards
K11
 240 Degress W
 70 Yards
L12
 152 Degress SE
 100 Yards
M13
 110 Degress E
 70 Yards
End
 66 Degress E
 100 Yards

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