Swanson Road
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PDF versionShareThisNovember 9
Sunday
Pre-registration is required and will open on Monday, Nov. 3 at 6pm and will close at noon Saturday Nov. 8. There will be no day-of registration.
Join Us for an Exciting Family Adventure!
Welcome back to the Marlboro Natural Area, Swanson Road, one of the smaller parks associated with the Patuxent River Park system. Swanson Road provides a mix of mid-Atlantic spur and reentrant terrain, as well as Patuxent River lowlands and marshes. The history of the park remains visible, with unoccupied houses and fields in various stages of natural reclamation. Unlike other near-river parks in our venues, there are many steep areas at Swanson Road, but the climbs are rewarded with open woods, beautiful views, early fall colors, and of course, orienteering courses for all levels.
What to Expect
Participants will navigate diverse terrains, including wooded areas, fields, and waterways, using a map and compass. This event is designed to test your navigation skills, endurance, and for groups, teamwork. Various courses will be available to accommodate all skill levels:- Beginner Course(White, Yellow, and Long Yellow): Perfect for newcomers, offering a gentle introduction to orienteering with straightforward checkpoints and kid-friendly terrain. Beginner Instruction will be available. The Long Yellow course is aimed at those Beginners almost ready to move up a level.
- Intermediate Course (Orange): A bit more challenging, great for those with some orienteering experience looking to improve their skills. This event’s Orange course is aimed at those confident Intermediate Orienteers preparing for their next step.
- Advanced Courses (Beige, Brown, Green, and Blue): For experienced orienteers seeking a course with complex navigation.
What to Bring
Participants should come prepared with the following items:- Comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear
- Water bottle and snacks
- Compass and whistle if you have them. Loaners are available if needed.
Parking and Check-in
Parking is in the grassy field at the end of the dirt road. Be careful of ruts and mud if it has been raining recently. Check-in, e-punch, and portable toilets will be located at the barn adjacent to the parking area.
Groups
QOC allows groups of up to 4 people to orienteer together. Any youth or large groups attending this event should contact the Event Director in advance so that we can coordinate pre-registration for your group. Details and the required waiver form can be found on our For Group Leaders webpage.| Location | Swanson Road Natural Area, North end, Upper Marlboro, MD (Classic) | ||||||||||
| Registration | Advance registration will be required. The date and time that registration will open will be posted here; usually, registration will open at 6pm on the Monday before the event. | ||||||||||
| Start Times | Start times will be by windows (to be defined for this event before registration opens). | ||||||||||
| Schedule | Sunday, November 9
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| Location Details |
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| Entry Fees | Individual Entries
Note: juniors = under 21
Group Entries Participants are welcome to orienteer together as a group (up to the maximum for that event; usually 4). Each member of a group is charged their individual rate as shown above, up to a group total of $30 (maximum), and each receives a map. A group receives one epunch. Individuals or groups desiring to compete on a second course after completing their first can do so for a reduced fee of $2/map subject to approval at the event by the Event Director. Important Notes
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