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Wayfinding

Compass Course

Learn how to use a compass by following a series of directions leading you around Mount Hoy at Blackwell. (Part of the course may be inaccessible December – February due to snow tubing.)

Course Maps

Have a group of more than 25? You need a permit but can get a free one through Visitor Services at 630-933-7248. Just make sure to call at least three business days before your visit.

Geocaching

Use your phone and an app to find hidden caches throughout the forest preserves! Clues for caches in DuPage County forest preserves are available at geocaching.com.

Searching for caches on Forest Preserve District property does not require a permit or have a fee. However, if you want to hide a cache in a forest preserve, you need to apply for a free geocaching permit, which is available through Visitor Services at 630-933-7248.

Letterboxing

Letterboxing is an outdoor treasure hunt where you follow written clues to lead you to different caches in the preserves. Clues for letterboxes within DuPage County forest preserves are posted at Letterboxing North America.

Searching for letterboxes on Forest Preserve District property does not require a permit or have a fee. However, if you want to hide a letterbox in a forest preserve, you need to apply for a free letterboxing permit, which is available through Visitor Services at 630-933-7248.

Orienteering

Orienteering combines compass use with descriptions of clues on the landscape to complete a course in as little time as possible.

A permanently marked course is in northeast Waterfall Glen near the trailhead. Learn how to navigate through the outdoors with a map and a compass.

Course Maps

Have a group of more than 25? You need a permit but can get a free one through Visitor Services at 630-933-7248. Just make sure to call at least three business days before your visit.

two girls reading an orienteering map in a forest preserve