Castle Rock Traverse

Beautiful Castle Rock area in Elmore county about 1 hour and 10 minutes drive from Boise offers plenty of opportunities for traverse. This will be the main theme of the meet with usual offer of our classic beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses set in very unique area. Expect lots of boulders large and huge and breathtaking views! For the last 30 years that I live in Idaho each time going to Sun Valley I admired the area and thought that this may be a world class terrain for orienteering. It is indeed!

In 2020 lidar data became available and John Murray created first orienteering orienteering map of the area. Only about 20% of area was fieldchecked so we had large plans to add much more for the meet. Unfortunately my business schedule took almost all time available for field work but nevertheless some area was added. Advanced and intermediate courses will finish through this new area with magnificent "Castle Rock" towering in full view!

We will use SI electronic punching system for the meet so bring your own SI stick or rent one for a nominal charge. You will need a good compass. We have some for rent too.

There are three courses offered with the following stats:
Beginner 2 km, 8 controls, 75 m climb
Intermediate 2.9 km, 10 controls, 200 m climb
Advanced 4.3 km, 16 controls, 300 m climb

Please select one and RSVP below before end of Thursday June 16 with your course selection so I may preprint a map for you. There is no Sport course option. Intermediate course was designed on easier side and may be appropriate instead.

Terrain is very unique and open. Lots of nice boulder and rock features that are best for navigation. Per stats above intermediate and advanced courses will encounter steep uphill areas so be prepared for physical challenges. Most of the area is covered with knee high brush and bushes thus gaiters and full leg cover is advisable. Shoes with studs are advised for advanced courses. Selecting micro-routes via brush and staying on your selected line would be as important as selecting the right macro-routes. Beginner course mainly will follow a road and indistinctive trails, though short legs of sage brush may be encountered. In spite of the shorter length the courses are very challenging both navigationally and physically. All water features are over-full after lots of rain. Some places near streams may be swampy.

It may be hot during the day. We open starts from 9 am to avoid potential hot mid-day times. Start earlier. There will be no water on courses. Bring your own to the course if needed. We will provide water at the meet center. Expected winning times on courses may be close to one hour or so.

This meet is dedicated to John Murray whose energy and enthusiasm is great inspiration for all of us and for me personally! Happy Birthday John!

Cheers,
Sergey