Lake Needwood

The woods are gorgeous and the map has been partially updated for our annual visit to Lake Needwood.

None of the courses cross Southlawn Drive; all courses remain within the main section of the park. This means that even some of the shorter courses have loops. Blue has several butterfly loops (a small loop that returns to a control before going on); take care to head to the right control! Blue especially but the other advanced courses as well have sections that are control-picky- y. Controls are relatively close together but are on distinct features. The woods are hilly and while I tried to keep the climb reasonable, a lot of the nicest terrain is on the top of the hills. Most of the rock is found in the stream valley. Point features on the map tend to be quite small, though mapper Nadim Ahmed has taken off some of the smallest features. Some of the small strips of green indicate where there used to be a downed tree; these areas are mostly gone or not relevant any more.

Two small areas have recently burned. All advanced courses plus Orange will skirt (or, optionally, go through) at least one such area. One of the areas has new fire breaks and a fire road; Nadim has added these to the map. The firebreaks look like new ditches with dirt piled up on the sides.

All controls except White will cross a creek; the courses are set so that you can avoid crossing the larger stream by going around to the smaller stream if you wish. Depending on rainfall leading up to the event, you’ll likely get your feet wet crossing even the smaller stream, though in some places you can cross on rocks. This stream is quite shallow.

Orange and all the advanced courses except Beige go into the area north of the start/finish. These courses all go through the Go Ape! zip line area; be courteous and pay attention when in the area (we’re allowed to be there). Pay attention and be mindful of other park users; several courses may go through parking lots and/or picnic areas. Orange, Green, Red, and Blue go around the lake.

There are some road route options; please be cautious while running on or crossing the road as cars aren’t necessarily expecting to see you.

With the limited area I’m using for courses, along with the density of controls and routing of the courses, you will likely see a lot of other orienteers. You may be heading the opposite direction; stay aware so you don’t run into someone. I have ignored guidelines to not have legs going in reverse order , which may be of help as you approach a control.

There are four water controls, with every course visiting at least one. If it’s a warm day, please be courteous and leave some water for others.

Enjoy Needwood’s woods!