Hiking and the Trail to Eagle
Hiking Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Hiking. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the most likely hazards you may encounter while hiking and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
- b.Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while hiking.
- 2
Explain and, where possible, show the points of good hiking practices.
- 3
Explain how to properly use and care for hiking equipment.
- 4
Before each hike, plan your route. Get permission from the landowner if needed.
- 5
Take five hikes, each of at least 10 miles, and take one hike of at least 20 miles. These hikes must be taken on days you do not have other strenuous activities.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Hiking Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Hiking, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Hiking is usually earned troop meetings and outings. Coordinate with your troop so the group activities line up with your requirements.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 3 months for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 7 Hiking requirements for you.
Hiking Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Hiking merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
Yes, as part of a choice group. To earn Eagle, a scout must earn Swimming, Hiking, or Cycling. Hiking satisfies that requirement, and any other badge from the group can count as one of the 8 electives.
How long does the Hiking merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Hiking in about 3 months, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Hiking merit badge?
Hiking is most often earned troop meetings and outings. Any registered merit badge counselor for Hiking can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Hiking merit badge have?
Hiking has 5 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 7 items in total.
