Ask Lemmygrad

Is it possible to find out where checkpoints are ahead of time?

Take this with a grain of salt I'm just some guy on the Internet. But what I would do is learn to read a map and compass, get to a location near the border, find a landmark ahead of time and the beginning of a clear path like a power line easement on the other side, then use the landmark and the bearing to set direction then I would exit through the woods on foot. Something like a national park with a tourist presence. Just a gal out to enjoy the fall colors. Or a birder. You could practice navigation in a big park in the meantime. It's not that difficult if you already know where you are and where you are going.

If it's possible to rent a car I would do that and ditch it. Not the most elegant but it's life or death.

I would scout everything ahead of time using satellite data. Google Earth would be enough to find waypoints and landmarks. If you have an area where you really need visibility you can buy remarkably high res satellite imagery from commercial providers. Possible exit points/area of the hike for instance or if you need to know how checkpoints are set up. You should look up 30cm satellite imagery to get a feel for the types of resolution these folks are capable of.