01
Orient the map before looking for the finish
Use a compass or a clear road, building edge or other obvious feature to line the map up with the ground. If the orientation is wrong, junctions and turns will appear reversed.
Orienteering map basics
How do you read an orienteering map?
Begin by orienting the map, then use its scale, legend, contours and clear terrain features to connect what is printed with what you can see around you.
In brief
To read an orienteering map, first turn it so that north and the terrain line up, then confirm your current position. Check the scale and legend, identify useful roads, buildings, water, vegetation and contours, and move towards a clear feature near the checkpoint. Read the map in short sections rather than treating the straight line as the only possible route.
02
Read the legend for this particular map
Orienteering maps use colours and symbols to compress a complex place. Formal maps follow international specifications, while an introductory campus or destination map may simplify some details. Check how this map shows paths, buildings, water, vegetation, fences and out-of-bounds areas.
03
Use scale to estimate distance
At 1:5,000, one centimetre on the map represents about 50 metres on the ground. Slope, surface, detours and navigation difficulty still affect your time, so map distance is an estimate rather than a stopwatch.
04
Let contours explain the shape of the ground
Contour lines join points at the same height. Closely spaced lines usually indicate steeper ground; wider spacing suggests a gentler slope. Beginners can start by recognising the broad direction of climbs, descents, ridges and valleys.
05
Break a long leg into recognisable pieces
Paths, walls, shorelines and building edges are easy to follow. Near the checkpoint, use a junction, building corner, bridge or isolated tree as a final reference. If you drift, these features also make relocation easier.
06
Choose a route that is easy to run and easy to follow
The shorter option may cross thick vegetation or a steep slope, while a longer path can be faster and safer. Compare distance, surface, climb, turns and how often you can confirm your position. Never cross mapped or physically closed areas.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How is an orienteering map different from a normal map?
It shows fine terrain and passability details that matter to a participant, using specialised symbols for landform, vegetation, paths, rocks, water and forbidden areas. A navigation map focuses more on roads, addresses and destination guidance.
Can I start before I understand contours?
Yes, on a simple beginner course. Follow clear paths and buildings while gradually learning contour patterns. Learn terrain symbols and compass technique before entering more complex forest courses or formal competition.
What should I do if I am lost?
Stop rather than running on a guess. Return mentally or physically to the last certain location, then compare nearby roads, buildings, water or high ground with the map. If you still cannot relocate, follow the event's contact procedure.
Can a phone map replace an orienteering map?
Not completely. Phone navigation is strong at roads and addresses, while an orienteering map also shows terrain, vegetation, passability and checkpoint surroundings. A digital event may display the orienteering map on a phone, but the same reading skills still matter.
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