SMOC Independence Oaks
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SMOC Independence Oaks
SMOC Independence Oaks on November 15, 2026 is an orienteering event held at Independence Oaks with headquarters at Twin Chimneys. Oakland County parks have free entry. SMOC returns to this park after a nine-year absence. The event is also run as a 4H event, which is expected to increase turnout.
Orienteering uses a detailed topographic map and a compass to find a series of checkpoints in order. Competitors may race or move at a recreational pace while navigating between controls; the route between checkpoints is the participant's choice and can include trail or cross-country travel.
The park features a lot of open woods with minimal fight. A suite of courses is offered with different distances and technical demands. Course walking time estimates are provided for planning and vary by course and by errors.
- White/Beginner - 1.2 km, points on trails, 30–60 minutes to walk.
- Yellow/Intermediate - 3.2 km, flags visible from trail, 45–90 minutes.
- Orange/Advanced - 3.9 km, cross-country travel common, 90–120 minutes.
- Brown/Expert Short - 4.6 km, highest technical difficulty, 90–120 minutes.
- Green/Expert - 5.1 km, high technical difficulty, 120–150 minutes.
- Red/Expert Long - 6.0 km, high technical difficulty, 150–180 minutes.
Loaner compasses are available. Suggested clothing and gear include long pants, long sleeves (ideally orange), layers, shoes that can get dirty, spare shoes, snacks, water, and precautions for insects and ivy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
