Foot vs MTB rogaine

Rogaining is most commonly done on foot, but mountain bike rogaining works just the same way. The only major difference is that in most mountain bike rogaines, you must stay on the marked trails and not travel cross-country. The organisers will make the exact rules of their event clear.

The map

Rogaines may use highly detailed orienteering maps if they cover smaller areas or more generalised topo maps for longer events which may cover large areas, and other types of maps may be used also.

Checkpoints

The checkpoints are marked in the terrain by a flag just like in orienteering. More serious events will use an electronic system to record your visit to the checkpoint, while some low key events might use a manual method like writing down a code.

The checkpoints are marked distinctly on the map by a purple circle and the checkpoint will be precisely in the centre of the circle.

Points and planning

All participants will be given their maps before the start, giving everyone time to plan their route before the race starts against the clock. This planning time could be 15 minutes for a short rogaine or 3 hours for a long rogaine.

Checkpoints may not all be worth the same number of points, so you must consider the difficulty of getting certain checkpoints against the number of points they get you.

Strategy

In order to get the most points possible you will need to consider the total distance you plan to travel, the toughness of the terrain your route covers and the confidence you will have navigating your route. Additionally, being thoughtful about how you can adapt your route if you make faster or slower progress than planned can be rewarding.

Teams

Rogaines are most often done in teams, but it is common for shorter rogaines to allow people to participate as individuals. Teams of 2 are most common in championship competitions.

Family-friendly

Since rogaines offer checkpoints with varying degrees of navigational difficulty, more experienced adults can take on harder checkpoints, often for more points, while younger family member can stick to easier checkpoints. This provides are rewarding experience for all in the same location and time-frame.

Length

The time limit for a rogaine typically varies from 1 hour to 24 hours. Major championships are often 24 hours, so competitors have to be confident travelling and navigating at night time and have excellent fitness to do well.

Start and finish

The start point and finish point are most often both at the event centre, but in some cases the start or finish is moved a short distance away. At the start of the rogaine, all teams will set out from the start point at the same time.

You may return to the event centre at any point, and it is common to see teams in long events return to restock food and water supplies.

Equipment

The basic equipment you will need includes grippy shoes, comfortable running or walking clothes, a compass and a timing chip (usually SPORTident or NavLight) for timing. If you are tackling stretches of cross country navigation through terrain with dense forest or high undergrowth, you may want to consider long pants, tights, long socks, or gaiters for better protection.

If a rogaine takes you into alpine or remote environments, it is likely the organisers will require you to carry cold and wet weather clothing, first aid and emergency items. Organisers should be clear on their requirements.

For longer rogaines, carrying food and water will be a major consideration.

For rogaines that go into the hours of darkness, lights will be required.