Checkpoint Challenge

No. You have 6, 12 or 24 hours in total. Within that time, you decide how much effort you put in. Running, walking, taking a short break or enjoying the view from a bench ...

No. We love the concept, a mix of (ultra) trail running and orienteering, but we set our own rules and add our own twist. For example, by writing down codes on paper and using the classic map at a scale of 1:25,000.

Friendly, respectful and connecting. You share the experience with like-minded people who love nature, challenge and being outdoors together. Whether you come to win, to learn or simply to enjoy: everyone belongs.

No. Competing is optional. Many participants join for the adventure, nature and the good company. There is no pressure, no mass start and no required pace. You choose how intense you want it to be.

Absolutely. Runners and walkers are both welcome: every race has a version for runners and a version for walkers. It's all about navigation, making choices and enjoying the surroundings – not just about speed.

All levels. You decide how technical, athletic or relaxed you make it. Some participants focus on performance and strategy, others on the experience, nature and fun. There is no "right" way to take part.

A navigation race combines running or walking with map reading and orienteering in nature. You don't follow a fixed course; instead, you choose your own route with a map (and sometimes a compass) to find checkpoints. That makes every race unique and adventurous.

Young people under 18 can take part if they are in a team with at least 1 responsible adult. Keep in mind that such a long effort has a greater impact on young people. We recommend that young people only take part in a 12- or 6-hour race.

At registration, we accept teams of 1 or 2 members. A team of 3 or more is possible on request, but it will be excluded from the final ranking. This keeps the ranking fair for everyone (a larger team has more navigation advantages), while not taking away the fun of taking part. Send us a message if you would like this.

As long as your dog doesn't have a nose for finding checkpoints, your four-legged friend is more than welcome to run along.

Yes, everyone can take part: solo or with friends, colleagues or family, including mixed levels. Navigating together makes it extra fun and accessible. Do keep in mind the rules on the number of team members and on age.

You mainly need good shoes, suitable clothing and an open mind. A set of mandatory gear is also expected. Maps and race information are provided. A compass is useful, but not mandatory.

Yes. Participants, along with their family members, friends, and supporters, can stay overnight at base camp in their own tent (additional cost of €5 per person).

The checkpoints are always along accessible paths, and each checkpoint comes with a short description (e.g. "confluence of a stream" or "small bridge").

No, our races are essentially all about navigating without digital aids. GPS devices are not allowed. You may wear a smartwatch, provided it stays in 'Adventure mode' for the entire race. Your phone is only for taking nice photos, calling the emergency services in an emergency or contacting the organisation if there's a problem.

Yes and no. All checkpoints you need to find are already marked on the map from the start, so you can continue using map reading alone. However, if you’re unsure between several paths, or if you want to be certain of your direction of travel, a compass can definitely help. In poor visibility, bad weather, or in the dark, a compass often becomes particularly useful. Feeling unsure? Be sure to check out our workshops on map & compass skills or route planning.

That's part of it. Navigation is "learning by doing". You can make mistakes, take detours and adjust. It's not about perfection, but about experience, insight and fun.

No. Our races are accessible to beginners and challenging for experienced participants. You always get a clear map, an explanation beforehand and the freedom to go at your own pace. Many participants do their very first navigation race with DE24.

All registrations go through the Njuko registration platform. When registering, you select the race and your team set-up (solo/duo), and you can pay securely online straight away. Easy! Njuko is a recognised and reliable platform in the running world.