All Ages Invited to Try Orienteering This Weekend in Missoula

If you're looking for some unique outdoor activities that don't require much driving, your map and compass should lead you to Playfair Park in Missoula.

Orienteering is the sport of navigating with a map and compass. The object is to find a series of points shown on a map, choosing routes — both on and off trail — that will help you find all the points and get back to the finish in the shortest amount of time.

Based in Missoula, Grizzly Orienteering is the primary club organizing orienteering events in Western Montana. Events feature custom maps and courses and provide a range of challenges appropriate for individuals and groups of all ages and experience levels. You are invited to give it a try both Saturday and Sunday at Playfair Park. Saturday's session will be an evening adventure, starting at 6:30 p.m. If you prefer to get more comfortable with the sport in daylight, Sunday's start time is 10:00 a.m.

This is a beginner-friendly event at Playfair Park. The event is free for newcomers and affordable for returning participants. All necessary equipment and beginner instruction will be provided. Social distancing and COVID-19 precautions will be maintained.

All ages are welcome to these events Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 20-21). Grizzly Orienteering does require you to preregister on their website.

What an easy way to perhaps get acquainted with a new type of outdoor adventure. Even if you find it really challenging at first, you can't get too lost in a city park, right?