The Climbing Merit Badge: Your Ultimate Guide In 2024

Ready to reach new heights while earning your climbing merit badge? If you’re passionate about conquering physical challenges and exploring nature, you’re in the right place! In this guide, you’ll learn about climbing techniques, safety methods, and preparation tips to better enjoy the outdoors while climbing. Climbing is a great way to challenge yourself physically and mentally, while having a fun time with your friends out in nature! I’ve personally climbed and gone bouldering outdoors (and indoors) on a number of occasions, and have to tell you that there’s really nothing else like it! So, get ready to learn this awesome skill and earn your next merit badge. 😀

Before we get started, if you have any Eagle-required merit badges left to earn, I’d recommend checking out my Difficulty Ranking Guide to Every Eagle-required Badge. There, you’ll find links to my other merit badge guides, as well as an explanation of each badge’s requirements. I’m certain this resource will be helpful to Scouts on their road to Eagle!

Also, remember that ScoutSmarts should just serve as your starting point for merit badge research. In school, we’re taught not to plagiarize, and the same is true for Scouting worksheets. Answer these questions in your own words, do further research, and I promise you’ll gain much more from every merit badge you earn!

Whether you’re completely new to climbing or already have some experience on the rocks, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to earn your Climbing merit badge. So, harness your excitement, secure your gear, and let’s get going! To kick things off, let’s start by reading each of the Climbing merit badge requirements.🙂

What Are The Climbing Merit Badge Requirements?

1. Do the following:
   1a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in climbing and rappelling activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
   1b. Show that you know first aid for and how to prevent injuries or illnesses that could occur during climbing activities, including heat and cold reactions, dehydration, stopped breathing, sprains, abrasions, fractures, rope burns, blisters, snakebite, concussions, and insect bites or stings.
   1c. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person.
2. Learn the Leave No Trace principles and Outdoor Code, and explain what they mean.
3. Present yourself properly dressed for belaying, climbing, and rappelling (i.e., appropriate clothing, footwear, and a helmet; rappellers can also wear gloves).
4. Location. Do the following:
   4a. Explain how the difficulty of climbs is classified, and apply classifications to the rock faces or walls where you will demonstrate your climbing skills.
   4b. Explain the following: top-rope climbing, lead climbing, and bouldering.
   4c. Evaluate the safety of a particular climbing area. Consider weather, visibility, the condition of the climbing surface, and any other environmental hazards.
   4d. Determine how to summon aid to the climbing area in case of an emergency.
5. Verbal signals. Explain the importance of using verbal signals during every climb and rappel, and while bouldering. With the help of the merit badge counselor or another Scout, demonstrate the verbal signals used by each of the following:
   • Climbers
   • Rappellers
   • Belayers
   • Boulderers and their spotters
6. Rope. Do the following:
   6a. Describe the kinds of rope acceptable for use in climbing and rappelling.
   6b. Show how to examine a rope for signs of wear or damage.
   6c. Discuss ways to prevent a rope from being damaged.
   6d. Explain when and how a rope should be retired.
   6e. Properly coil a rope.
7. Knots. Demonstrate the ability to tie each of the following knots. Give at least one example of how each knot is used in belaying, climbing, or rappelling.
   • Figure eight on a bight
   • Figure eight follow-through
   • Water knot
   • Double fisherman’s knot (Grapevine knot)
8. Harnesses. Correctly put on a commercially made climbing harness.
9. Belaying. Do the following:
   9a. Explain the importance of belaying climbers and rappellers and when it is necessary.
   9b. Belay three different climbers ascending a rock face or climbing wall.
   9c. Belay three different rappellers descending a rock face or climbing wall using a top rope.
10. Climbing. Do the following:
    10a. Show the correct way to tie into a belay rope.
    10b. Climb at least three different routes on a rock face or climbing wall, demonstrating good technique and using verbal signals with belayer.
11. Rappelling. Do the following:
    11a. Using a carabiner and a rappel device, secure your climbing harness to a rappel rope.
    11b. Tie in to a belay rope set up to protect rappellers.
    11c. Rappel down three different rock faces or three rappel routes on a climbing wall. Use verbal signals to communicate with a belayer, and demonstrate good rappelling technique.
12. Demonstrate ways to store rope, hardware, and other gear used for climbing, rappelling, and belaying.

1a) Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in climbing and rappelling activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.

Before you embark on any climbing or rappelling adventure, it’s essential to know how to deal with potential hazards. These activities can be incredibly thrilling, but they also come with risks! In this section, we’ll discuss the most common hazards you might encounter while climbing, and how to anticipate, prevent, mitigate, and respond to them!

Identifying Potential Climbing/Rappelling Hazards

• Falls: The risk of falling is inherent in climbing and rappelling. Understanding how to secure yourself properly is key!
• Equipment Failure: Ropes, harnesses, and other gear can wear out or fail. Regular checks and proper maintenance are crucial.
• Weather Conditions: Changing weather can impact climbing conditions. Being prepared for sudden weather changes is essential.
• Environmental Hazards: Loose rocks, unpredictable wildlife, and uneven terrain pose dangers. Learning to assess your surroundings is vital!

Anticipating and Preventing Climbing/Rappelling Hazards

• Training: Proper training in climbing techniques and safety protocols reduces the risk of accidents.
• Double-Checking Gear: Always double-check your gear and knots before climbing. Attention to detail can prevent many accidents!
• Weather Monitoring: Stay updated on weather forecasts. Avoid climbing in adverse conditions like storms or heavy rain.
• Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid disturbing wildlife and be cautious of unstable rocks!

Mitigating and Responding to Climbing/Rappelling Hazards

• Communication: Maintain clear communication with your climbing partners. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings!
• Emergency Protocols: Know the emergency procedures for your climbing location. Understand how to call for help if needed.
• Quick Thinking: Stay calm and think clearly in emergency situations. Swift, rational decisions can save the day when something goes wrong!
• First Aid Knowledge: Basic first aid skills are invaluable. Knowing how to treat minor injuries can prevent them from escalating.

1b) Show that you know first aid for and how to prevent injuries or illnesses that could occur during climbing activities, including heat and cold reactions, dehydration, stopped breathing, sprains, abrasions, fractures, rope burns, blisters, snakebite, concussions, and insect bites or stings.

You want to be confident when you climb, and that means knowing how to help yourself and your fellow climbers! To ensure safety during climbing activities, it’s crucial to know how to handle potential injuries and illnesses. Here’s a concise walkthrough for climbing first aid and prevention:

• Heat and Cold Reactions: Dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and recognize symptoms of heatstroke or hypothermia. Move to a cooler or warmer place accordingly.
• Dehydration: Drink water regularly, especially in warm weather. Recognize signs of dehydration like dizziness and fatigue, and rehydrate immediately.
• Stopped Breathing: Learn CPR basics so you can perform this life-saving measure if needed — after calling 911! Here is a useful guide featuring basic instructions and a way to locate a first aid class near you.
• Sprains and Fractures: Immobilize the injured area, use ice to reduce swelling, and seek medical help.
• Abrasions and Blisters: Clean wounds with mild soap and water and cover with a sterile dressing. Prevent blisters by wearing well-fitted, moisture-wicking socks.
• Rope Burns: Clean the area, apply a sterile dressing, and keep it covered to prevent infection.
• Snakebites: Keep the affected area below heart level, avoid tourniquets, and seek immediate medical assistance.
• Concussions: Watch for signs like confusion or memory loss. Rest and seek medical attention for head injuries.
• Insect Bites or Stings: Remove the stinger, clean the area, and apply ice to reduce swelling. Use antihistamine creams for itchiness.

For more info, be sure to check out my guide to the First Aid merit badge. By knowing how to respond to these situations, you can ensure a safer climbing experience for everyone involved. After all, Scouting is all about being prepared, taking care of yourself, and helping others! Stay vigilant, act swiftly, and prioritize safety at all times. 🙂

Also, here’s a great video (7:57) to watch for beginners trying to get into the mindset of climbing safely and effectively in the outdoors:

1c) Identify the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person.

Perform CPR only if:

• Unresponsive: The person is unconscious and not responding.
• Absence of Normal Breathing: The person is not breathing normally or not breathing at all.

Remember, CPR is a vital emergency procedure and should only be administered when these conditions are met. Once you call 911, the emergency operator may be able to walk you through the best steps to take until help arrives. Here’s a great guide to performing (and teaching!) CPR.

2) Learn the Leave No Trace principles and Outdoor Code, and explain what they mean.

Understanding the Leave No Trace principles and the Outdoor Code is fundamental for responsible outdoor exploration. Leave No Trace emphasizes leaving nature as you found it. The principles include respecting wildlife, staying on designated trails, and properly disposing of waste. Following these guidelines ensures minimal impact on the environment!

The Outdoor Code serves as a moral compass for Scouts, promoting environmental stewardship and respect for natural habitats. It encourages Scouts to be mindful of their surroundings, appreciating the wilderness without harming it. By adhering to these principles, Scouts uphold the values of conservation and preserve nature’s beauty for generations to come! 🙂

Helpful Link: For a detailed understanding of the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles, explore this comprehensive guide. In it, you’ll learn how these principles shape responsible outdoor ethics, guiding Scouts toward a greater appreciation for the environment!

3) Present yourself properly dressed for belaying, climbing, and rappelling (i.e., appropriate clothing, footwear, and a helmet; rappellers can also wear gloves).

When preparing for climbing, belaying, or rappelling, it’s essential to wear the right gear. Opt for comfortable and breathable clothing, allowing freedom of movement without being too loose or baggy. In cold temperatures, layer up and also consider wearing moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry after sweating from physical activity.

Footwear should be sturdy, providing excellent grip and support. Climbing shoes are ideal for precise foot placement, while approach shoes offer grip for both climbing and walking. Remember to wear a properly fitting helmet to protect your head from potential falls or debris!

For rappelling, rappelling gloves are a practical addition, offering protection for your hands while helping control the rope. Ensure your gloves fit well and allow for a secure grip without hindering movement. By dressing appropriately, you enhance your safety and comfort, making climbing and rappelling even more enjoyable. 😀

Here’s a great video (9:36) detailing the gear and clothes you’ll likely bring when going climbing, along with their associated costs! While this requirement is mainly about clothes, knowing what other gear to pack for safety and warmth is vitally important for a successful and comfortable climb.

4a) Explain how the difficulty of climbs is classified, and apply classifications to the rock faces or walls where you will demonstrate your climbing skills.

Climbing difficulty is classified using various systems, including the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) in the United States. The YDS ranges from Class 1 (easy hiking) to Class 5 (technical climbing). Within Class 5, climbs are further categorized from 5.0 (easier) to 5.15 (extremely difficult).

For your climbing skills demonstration, familiarize yourself with these classifications and apply them to the rock faces or walls you’ll be climbing. This understanding ensures you choose routes that match your skill level, promoting safety and confidence during your climbs.

For a visual guide on how to apply these classifications to specific rock faces, check out this helpful video (10:42) here.

4b) Explain the following: top-rope climbing, lead climbing, and bouldering.

Understanding these climbing styles will help you explore various aspects of the sport, from introductory top-rope climbs to more advanced lead climbing and the problem-solving excitement of bouldering. Each style offers unique opportunities for climbers to hone their skills and enjoy the challenge of rock climbing!

• Top-Rope Climbing: In top-rope climbing, a rope is anchored at the top of the climbing route. The climber is secured to one end of the rope, while a belayer holds the other end. As the climber ascends, the rope runs through an anchor above, providing a safety backup in case of a fall. Top-rope climbing is excellent for beginners as it offers a secure and controlled environment to learn essential climbing techniques. 😀
• Lead Climbing: Lead climbing involves the climber ascending with the rope trailing behind and clipping it into protection points on the route. The lead climber carries the rope, clips it into quickdraws attached to bolts or other gear, ensuring safety as they progress. This style requires advanced skills, as the climber must manage rope slack and make quick decisions about protection placements.
• Bouldering: Bouldering is climbing at lower heights without the use of ropes or harnesses. Climbers ascend boulders, walls, or rock formations using only their hands and climbing shoes, often landing on crash pads to prevent injuries in case of a fall. Bouldering emphasizes strength, technique, and problem-solving!

4c) Evaluate the safety of a particular climbing area. Consider weather, visibility, the condition of the climbing surface, and any other environmental hazards.

Climbing always has its risks. However, like riding a bike, climbing can become more or less dangerous depending on conditions and terrain. When assessing the safety of a climbing area, it’s vital to consider several factors to ensure your safety:

• Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast for the day. Avoid climbing during storms, heavy rain, or extreme heat, as these conditions can compromise safety and visibility.
• Visibility: Adequate visibility is essential for spotting hazards and navigating the climbing route effectively. Poor visibility due to fog, darkness, or heavy precipitation can increase the risk of accidents.
• Climbing Surface: Examine the condition of the rock or climbing surface. Look for loose or unstable rocks, as well as signs of erosion. Unstable surfaces can lead to falls and injuries.
• Environmental Hazards: Be aware of potential environmental hazards, such as wildlife, insects, or plant life that can pose threats. Some climbing areas may be home to animals or insects, which could become agitated when disturbed.
• Access and Exit Points: Evaluate access points to the climbing area and identify clear exit paths in case of emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the terrain to ensure a safe retreat if needed.
• Local Guidelines: Follow any specific guidelines or regulations set by local authorities or climbing organizations regarding the climbing area. Adhering to these guidelines promotes safety and preserves the natural environment.

By carefully assessing these factors, climbers can make informed decisions about the suitability of a climbing area. Prioritizing safety and awareness reduces the risks associated with outdoor climbing, making it much more likely you’ll have a safe and fun climb!

4d) Determine how to summon aid to the climbing area in case of an emergency.

In case of an emergency, call local emergency services immediately. Be prepared with precise information about the climbing area’s location, any landmarks, and the nature of the emergency. Additionally, ensure your phone is fully charged before climbing and have a backup power source if possible!

5) Verbal signals. Explain the importance of using verbal signals during every climb and rappel, and while bouldering. With the help of the merit badge counselor or another Scout, demonstrate the verbal signals used by each of the following: climbers, rapellers, boulderers and spotters.

Using clear and concise verbal signals is crucial for effective communication during climbs, rappels, and bouldering activities. It enhances safety and ensures everyone involved is on the same page. Plus, it helps you to communicate with your partner a lot faster! Here’s an overview of the verbal signals for different scenarios:

Climbers

• “On Belay”: Indicates the climber is ready and secure, requesting the belayer to start belaying.
• “Climbing”: Signifies the climber is beginning the ascent.
• “Take”: Instructs the belayer to remove slack from the rope.
• “Slack”: Requests the belayer to give some slack in the rope.

Rappellers

• “On Rappel”: Indicates the rappeller is ready to descend.
• “Rappelling”: Signifies the rappeller is descending down the rope.
• “Rope”: Alerts others below about the rappelling rope.

Belayers

• “Belay On”: Indicates the belayer is ready to provide assistance and support.
• “Belay Off”: Communicates that the belayer is not ready to provide support.

Boulderers and Spotters

• “Spot”: Indicates the boulderer needs assistance and the spotter should be alert.
• “Falling”: Warns the spotter that the boulderer is about to fall.

Demonstrating these signals with the guidance of your merit badge counselor or a fellow Scout will help you to be ready to give these signals during a real climb! These quick commands are used all the time when climbing, so they’re important to be aware of. Now you know them! 🙂

6) Rope. Do the following:
6a) Describe the kinds of rope acceptable for use in climbing and rappelling.

It can be easy to get tangled up over correct and safe rope use, but fear knot 😉, Here you’ll learn everything you need to master, from types of rope to rope retirement! When it comes to climbing and rappelling, using the right rope is crucial for safety and performance. Here are the main types of ropes acceptable for these activities:

• Dynamic Ropes: Dynamic ropes are designed to stretch under load, reducing the impact force during a fall. They are ideal for lead climbing and top-roping. Dynamic ropes come in various diameters, with thinner ropes offering lighter weight and greater flexibility.
• Static Ropes: Static ropes do not stretch significantly under load, making them suitable for rappelling and rescue operations. They provide stability and strength, ensuring minimal elongation. Static ropes are often used in caving, rescue missions, and setting up anchors.
• Kernmantle Ropes: Kernmantle ropes consist of a core (kern) protected by a woven outer sheath (mantle). This design provides excellent strength, durability, and abrasion resistance. Kernmantle ropes are versatile and commonly used in climbing, rappelling, and rescue scenarios.
• Accessory Cord: Accessory cords are thinner, lightweight ropes primarily used for setting up anchors, creating prusik loops, and other technical purposes. They shouldn’t be used as a climbing rope.

Another important factor to take into account when choosing your rope is what length to get. For most indoor climbs, 30-40 meters (100-140 feet) is ideal, whereas for your typical outdoor climb, you’ll want at least 60 meters of rope (195 ft+). With this length, you’ll be able to safely complete the longest single-pitch climbs!

Always ensure the rope you choose meets industry safety standards (like UIAA or EN) and is in good condition. Regularly inspect ropes for signs of wear, cuts, or fraying and retire any damaged ropes immediately to maintain a high level of safety during climbing and rappelling activities.

6b) Show how to examine a rope for signs of wear or damage.

When you have the right rope for the job, you have to make sure it’s in good shape, too. Regular inspection of climbing and rappelling ropes is vital for ensuring safety! Here’s how to examine a rope for signs of wear or damage:

• Examine the rope: Carefully run your hands along the entire length of the rope. Feel for any soft or flat spots, which could indicate core damage.
• Inspect the Sheath: Examine the outer sheath for abrasions, cuts, or frayed fibers. If you notice any damage, it might compromise the rope’s integrity.
• Check for Discoloration: Discoloration, especially near the ends, may suggest chemical damage. Avoid using a rope with unusual color changes.
• Feel for Irregularities: Pay attention to any unusual lumps, bumps, or stiffness along the rope. These irregularities could signify internal damage.
• Look for Core Exposure: If you find the core exposed anywhere, it’s a clear sign of serious wear. Replace the rope immediately.
• Inspect the Ends: The rope ends often endure the most stress. Check for signs of wear, fuzziness, or damage near the terminations.
• Perform a Bending Test: Bend the rope sharply to reveal any hidden damage. Listen for cracking sounds, which could age or indicate internal damage.
• Review Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and follow their recommendations for retirement criteria, as different types of ropes have specific criteria for replacement.

If you detect any signs of wear, damage, or irregularities during your inspection, retire the rope immediately! Your safety depends on the integrity of your climbing equipment, so always err on the side of caution when evaluating ropes for potential risks.

6c) Discuss ways to prevent a rope from being damaged.

Now you know the signs of a damaged rope, but how do you keep it in good shape for as long as possible? Preventing rope damage is crucial for ensuring your safety during climbing and rappelling activities. Here are essential tips to keep your rope in optimal condition:

• Proper Handling: Handle the rope with care, avoiding sharp edges and rough surfaces. Don’t step on the rope, and prevent it from dragging against abrasive surfaces.
• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the rope before and after each use. Look for signs of wear, fraying, or damage, even minor ones, and address them promptly.
• Cleanliness: Keep the rope clean and free from dirt, sand, or debris. Clean it gently with mild soap and water, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Proper Coiling: Coil the rope correctly using techniques like the butterfly or mountaineer’s coil to prevent kinks and twists. Avoid sharp bends during storage.
• Avoid Chemicals: Keep the rope away from chemicals, solvents, or strong cleaning agents that could weaken the fibers.
• Storage: Store the rope in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use rope bags or backpacks designed for climbing gear to protect the rope during transportation and storage.
• Use Rope Protectors: When setting up anchors or rappelling, use rope protectors (also known as rope guards) to prevent the rope from rubbing against sharp edges.
• Appropriate Anchoring: Anchor the rope to secure points using proper techniques and equipment to minimize friction and wear on the rope.
• Avoid Overloading: Use the appropriate rope for the specific activity and follow weight and load capacity guidelines to prevent overloading, which can lead to premature wear.

6d) Explain when and how a rope should be retired.

When To Retire a Climbing Rope

Nothing lasts forever — including climbing ropes. When a rope gets damaged, goes through certain events, or just gets too old, it’s time to say goodbye 🙁 Here are the signs it’s time to retire a rope:

• Visible Damage: Significant cuts, fraying, or wear that compromises the sheath or core.
• Age: Ropes have a limited lifespan, usually around 5 years of regular use. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Exposure to Chemicals: Exposure to harsh chemicals or solvents can weaken the rope fibers.
• Loss of Elasticity: Dynamic ropes lose elasticity over time. If the rope feels stiff or less dynamic, retire it.

Always prioritize safety. When in doubt about a rope’s condition, retire it to prevent accidents and ensure your well-being!

How To Retire a Climbing Rope

Retiring a rope doesn’t mean simply tossing it in the trash. Once you’ve decided it’s not safe to use, you don’t want someone else picking it up and using it themselves! That’s why there are specific procedures for retiring a climbing rope:

• Dispose Safely: Follow local regulations for disposing of climbing equipment. Some areas have specific recycling programs for ropes!
• Document: Keep a record of the rope’s retirement date and the reason for retirement. This information can be useful for future reference.
• Inform Others: If the rope was used in a group setting or climbing gym, inform others about its retirement to avoid confusion and ensure everyone’s safety.
• Reuse for non-crucial purposes: Often, ropes that should be retired for climbing can still be used safely for other purposes! Once marked as non-usable for climbing, you can still use a retired rope around the house or during camps.
• Replacement: Replace the retired rope with a new, certified climbing rope that meets safety standards for your intended activities.

By retiring a rope properly, you ensure that your climbing can be done safely and with a sense of security. Plus, it’s all the better if you can give your old rope friend a new life by recycling!

6e) Properly coil a rope.

Proper coiling is another important part of maintaining your climbing gear. This technique not only preserves the rope’s lifespan, but also makes it easier to handle and deploy during climbs or rappels. A practice that makes things safer and easier? Sign me up! 😀

1. Start Clean: Ensure the rope is clean and free from knots or tangles.
2. Begin with the Bitter End: Hold the rope’s bitter end (the end that isn’t attached to anything) and let the rest hang straight down.
3. Make Loops: Create arm-length loops by bringing the rope toward you and making large, loose circles.
4. Overhand Knot: Make an overhand knot near the bitter end, creating a small loop.
5. Wrap Around: Coil the rope around your elbow and back down toward your hand, forming neat and even loops.
6. Secure with the Loop: When you reach the end, pass the remaining rope through the small loop created by the overhand knot. Pull it tight to secure the coil.
7. Store Safely: Hang or store the coiled rope in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sharp objects, ensuring it’s ready for your next climbing adventure!

For all you visual learners out there, here’s a great video (4:54) demonstration of 3 techniques you can use to properly coil your climbing rope:

Congrats on Finishing Part 1 of The Climbing Merit Badge!

Great work! We’re now halfway done with earning the Climbing merit badge so that you’ll be able to climb skillfully and safely without supervision. I know we just covered a ton of useful info, so you definitely deserve a huge pat on the back! 🙂

Once you’re ready to continue on to part 2 of the Climbing merit badge, click here!
(Part 2 is in progress, subscribe to my newsletter for updates)

Also, if you’re interested in the difficulty rankings for every Eagle-required merit badge, you can check out my full guide here! PS: The article also links to my other ultimate badge guides that’ll help you complete your merit badge worksheets.

I'm constantly writing new content because I believe in Scouts like you! Thanks so much for reading, and for making our world a better place. Until next time, I'm wishing you all the best on your journey to Eagle and beyond!

Recent Content

Being a BSA Scout isn't just an extracurricular activity; it's a incredible journey that transforms young people into leaders, adventurers, and compassionate citizens. For some, Scouting is a.

If you're a Scout with a lot of school smarts (or would like to become one ;) ), Scholarship is the perfect badge for you to earn next! The Scholarship merit badge not only teaches you how to.

About Me

Hey there, reader! I'm Cole, the guy behind ScoutSmarts. I earned my Eagle back in 2014, and along the way, learned how to be a dependable leader. Although I didn't realize it at the time, Scouting helped shape my life! While I can't tell my past self what I know now, I can teach you all the smart Scouting knowledge that I wish I'd known when just starting out. Start reading! Hopefully, you'll learn a few things along the way and make the best of your time in Scouting. :)

LEGAL INFORMATION

This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site.

Most Popular Articles

• Cole’s Essential Camping Gear List
• All Eagle-Required Merit Badges: Difficulty Rankings And Guides
• Planning Your Eagle Scout Project
• The ScoutSmarts Master Post List
• 7 Secrets for Scouting Success 📖
• Share Your ScoutSmarts! 🧠

• About Cole And ScoutSmarts
• Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy For ScoutSmarts.com
• Recommended Articles

This site is made to support Scouts, Scoutmasters, and Scouting families. ScoutSmarts.com is not sponsored or endorsed by the Boy Scouts of America. All opinions expressed belong to ScoutSmarts and their readers. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the site author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to ScoutSmarts with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Thanks for reading! :)