Orienteering and the Trail to Eagle
Orienteering is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Orienteering Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Orienteering. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Show that you know first aid for injuries that could occur while orienteering.
- 2
Explain what orienteering is.
- 3
Demonstrate how to use a compass and read a topographic map.
- 4
Complete an orienteering course covering at least one mile.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities that use orienteering skills.
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 Orienteering Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Orienteering, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Orienteering is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 2 weeks 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 5 Orienteering requirements for you.
Orienteering Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Orienteering merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Orienteering is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Orienteering merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Orienteering in about 2 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Orienteering merit badge?
Orienteering is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Orienteering can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Orienteering merit badge have?
Orienteering has 5 main requirements, for 5 items in total.
