Requirement 7 of 10

Trail Signs and Markers

Lay out a one-mile trail using signs and markers, then restore the area according to Leave No Trace and the Outdoor Code.

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Checklist

Trail layout reminders

Use these notes to prepare your outing trail activity and cleanup plan.

Before the activity

  • Plan a trail of at least one mile.
  • Use at least six different trail signs or markers that others can follow clearly.
  • Make sure the route and markers are safe and approved for the outing location.

Examples of trail signs and markers

  • Common hiking trail markers include paint blazes, cairns or ducks, posts, affixed markers, etchings, and flagging tape.
  • Common painted blaze meanings include straight ahead, right turn, left turn, trail start, trail end, and intersection or spur.
  • How to Read Hiking Trail Signs, Markers and Blazes

Helpful planning tips

  • Choose markers that are easy for your patrol or troop to recognize.
  • Space them clearly enough that followers do not get confused.
  • Check that your signs are visible but do not damage the environment.

After the activity

  • Follow Leave No Trace and the Outdoor Code.
  • Replace or return trail markers to their original locations.
  • Leave the area as natural and undisturbed as possible.

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