Safety Activity Checkpoints (SACs)
ACTIVITY
DAISY
BROWNIE
JUNIOR
CADETTE
SENIOR
AMBASSADOR
Hiking Is Prior Council Approval Required?
Hiking
D
B
J
C
S
A
No
Go on an adventure and take a hike anywhere! Whether it’s for a few minutes or a few hours, enjoy the fresh air, explore nature, and have fun with friends.
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Note: These checkpoints refer to day hikes. Follow the Backpacking SAC for hikes with an overnight component.
navigable trails in your area at the Trail Access Project, or search local reviews online. ■
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Make it girl-led. Encourage the group to plan their destination and identify things they’d like to see along the way. Help participants understand distance, terrain features like hills, and other factors to ensure everyone is on the same page.
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Line up first aid. Ensure that at least one adult has First Aid/CPR/AED training.
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For locations more than 30 minutes from emergency medical services, recruit a Wilderness First Aider or Wilderness First Responder. Identify the closest emergency transport and facilities.
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Bring a first aid kit. Be sure to include blister treatment supplies.
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Find out about the hiking area and how to stay safe. Talk to a park ranger or local hiking expert or do online research about rules and potential hazards such as poisonous plants, animals, cliffs and drop-offs, etc.
Learn More: Check out Environmental Volunteers’ list of fun activities for nature hikes.
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Find trails, guides, and maps on the AllTrails app.
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Hike gently with Leave No Trace tips.
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Safety Activity Checkpoints ©2009-2026 Girl Scouts of the USA. All Rights Reserved.
Check out Melanin Base Camp and Diversify Outdoors for tips on making the experience familiar for all.
Planning and Preparation Phase
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Consider readiness and interest. Start short and slow, with a brief walk in the neighborhood. Build endurance toward more challenging or remote hikes if the group is interested.
■ Make plans for access. If ability is a factor, find
Activity-Specific Checkpoints for Hiking Follow these basic reminders for each phase of hike planning. Check off items as you complete them, making sure to consider each sub-bullet.
No
Decision-Making Phase
General Checkpoints Refer to the Safety Standards for general standards about supervision, transportation, first aid, and emergency plans, as well as inclusion and accessibility considerations.
Is Activity Training, Certification, or Verified Experience Required?
Apply for a permit, if required.
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