2026 State Capital Explorer Challenge

After a multi-year hiatus, the California Highway Patrol is proud to bring back the Statewide Explorer Competition! Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with teamwork, skill, and the thrill of friendly competition in the heart of Sacramento. This year’s competition will be held April 25–26, 2026, at the CHP Academy. Space is limited to the first 32 teams, so register early!

 

 

About the Competition

The CHP Statewide Explorer Competition gives Explorer Posts the opportunity to showcase their skills, build leadership, and compete in a variety of law enforcement-based events.

  1. Why Participate

    • Build leadership, confidence, and discipline
    • Engage in law enforcement training scenarios
    • Strengthen teamwork and post camaraderie
    • Meet other Explorers statewide
    • Compete for recognition and awards

  2. Team Requirements

      Two advisors and minimum 6 explorers     

  3. Schedule

    • Friday, April 24, 2026 - Team check-in
    • Saturday, April 25, 2026 - Competition events (scenario-based, PT, etc.)
    • Sunday, April 26, 2026 - Awards ceremony and team dismissal

  4. Registration Dates

    • Registration opens: December 2025
    • Check-in: Friday, April 24, 2026
    • Competition: April 25–26, 2026
    • Full payment due: February 23, 2026
    • Refund deadline: March 3, 2026

  5. Fees

    • $150 per explorer
    • $125 per advisor
    • $75 per spectator

  6. What’s Included

    • t-shirt
    • challenge coin
    • bag for participates

  7. Registration Resources

    TBD

  8. Payment Instructions

    Checks:

    See mailing address below. Checks must be made payable to Statewide Explorer Fund.

    Venmo: 

  9. Location & Venue Information

    California Highway Patrol Academy

    3500 Reed Avenue

    West Sacramento, CA 95605 

     

  10. Lodging & Meals

    Hotel Info:

    TBD

    Meal Info: 

    Includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks (for both days)  

    Nearby Food Options: 

    • In -N-Out Burger (780 Ikea Ct, West Sacramento, CA 95605)
    • McDonalds (800 Riverpoint Cir, West Sacramento, CA 95605)
    • Chipotle (775 Ikea Ct, West Sacramento, CA 95605)
    • Taco Bell (776 Ikea Court, West Sacramento, CA 95605)
    • Five Guys (768 Ikea Court, Suite 120, West Sacramento, CA 95605)
    • Burger King (763 Ikea Ct, #120, West Sacramento, CA 95605)
    • Beach Hut Deli (767 Ikea Ct Ste 130, West Sacramento, CA 95605)

Explorer Event Contact

CHP Office:

Community Outreach and Marketing Section (COMS):

Phone: (916) 843-3210

Email: CHPExplorers@chp.ca.gov

Mailing Address

California Highway Patrol

Attn: COMS 035

601 N 7th Street

Sacramento, CA 95811