Prepare for an exhilarating journey through the heart of Brighton Recreation Area at the 15th Annual Get Your Bearings Adventure Race on May 2, 2026. This 4-hour adventure race, hosted in Howell, Michigan, promises a dynamic challenge across varied terrain, blending trail running, mountain biking, paddling, and crucial orienteering skills. Typical race day conditions in early May feature comfortable highs around 67°F and lows around 42°F, with a 19% chance of precipitation, creating a fresh and invigorating atmosphere for your wilderness exploration.

Participants will navigate 6-8 miles of trekking through diverse landscapes, from open trails to dense brush, hills, and swampy lowlands, with the option to bushwhack for strategic advantages. The mountain biking section spans 10-15 miles, encompassing paved roads, gravel paths, and thrilling single track. A 2-4 mile paddling leg will have teams (or solo racers in kayaks) maneuvering canoes or kayaks provided with registration. Success hinges on adept map and compass navigation using pre-marked topographical maps, as teams strategically choose their routes to collect as many checkpoints as possible within the time limit to improve their ranking.

Designed for both seasoned adventure athletes and newcomers, the Get Your Bearings Adventure Race fosters a supportive yet competitive atmosphere, where the thrill of the "scavenger hunt" for checkpoints unites participants. While specific aid station details are often minimal in adventure races, emphasizing self-sufficiency with mandatory gear like a first-aid kit and hydration, registration does include canoe/kayak rental, event swag, and a well-deserved post-race meal. Get ready to test your endurance, navigation, and teamwork in this quintessential Michigan adventure.