Rancho Cuyamaca State Park

Just one hour east of San Diego lies a world of adventure—Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Spanning more than 24,000 acres of oak woodlands, pine forests, sweeping meadows, and mountain vistas, this park is a treasure trove for explorers. With over 100 miles of trails and stunning landmarks like Stonewall Peak, it’s the perfect playground for an epic day of orienteering.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or trying navigation for the first time, you’ll experience the thrill of charting your own course through breathtaking scenery and diverse terrain. Along the way, you might catch glimpses of local wildlife, historic sites from California’s Gold Rush era, and panoramic views you’ll never forget.

This is more than a race—it’s a day of challenge, discovery, and fun in one of San Diego County’s most beloved natural landscapes.

Event Team:

• Event Director: Dana Borie
• Course Setter: Chris Day
• Visit the Volunteer page to learn how to help with the event.
  • See "Volunteer" at the top right of the page. 🔝
  • Volunteers get up to a $20 credit for a race to cover their registration fee.
  • Volunteer roles explained in detail

Format: Traditional 

Map:  scale  1:7500  |  5m contours

Courses: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced

​Starts: 10am to 11am

Time Limit: Two and half hours. All competitors must return to HQ and download by 1:30pm so we know you are safe. If you don't check in before leaving, volunteers will search the course to ensure you are not lost. Please check in before you leave.

Scoring: Electronic punching will be offered. All participants must bring, rent, or purchase one. Controls will be AIR+ enabled. 

E-Punches: Rental electronic punches will be available for $5. Alternatively, you can purchase your own e-punch at our gear store for delivery to the event (use "000000" when registering).

Clinics:  An introductory clinic will be offered at 9:45 am. An experienced orienteerer will teach you the basics.

Registration: All participants must pre-register. All standard SDO registration policies apply.

Fees:

• $20 for adults, $10 for juniors (under 21)
• $5 early bird discount through midnight, Saturday, Sep 6th.

Closes: Registration will close at 10 am on Friday, Sep 26th, or when we reach our limit

Entry Limit: This event is limited to 100 participants. See the "Find a Participant" tab to see the registration list.

HQ Location:  32°57'37.6"N 116°34'47.8"W  - use this link for driving directions

Parking: There is a good amount of parking at the state park. After you pay the $10 entrance fee, veer to the right to enter the parking lot.

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