The OSG’s Scout program is known as Pathfinders. This section is open to youth of all genders beginning at age 11 and going through age 17 (grades 6 through 12). The emphasis will be in training through hands-on, outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, canoeing, and backpacking, as well as community-service projects. Pathfinders are organized into Troops that operate in Patrols of 6 to 8 members, led by a (youth) Patrol Leader who shares responsibility with an adult leader (called the Scoutmaster) for discipline, activity planning, and training the less-experienced members.
The Pathfinder program is designed to help young people learn skills that will lead to being independent, self-sufficient adults. The program requires scouts to first earn the Tenderfoot badge that focuses on general scouting skills and knowledge. The program includes advancements and special proficiency badges the scouts work on after earning Tenderfoot. The program provides room for the Pathfinders to explore their individual interests and self-sufficiency, while also doing things as part of a patrol.
When a Pathfinder turns 18, they are encouraged to continue their Scouting career by becoming Rover Scouts.
Uniforms
NOTE: Pathfinders and above are expected to maintain their own uniform. They will sew on their own patches, launder, and iron them. These are all important life skills and every Scout should know them.
- Hat: Brown Campaign style, flat-brim, four-dent hat with leather band on the crown. A red felt beret or is also permitted with appropriate metal pin or patch on front.
- Shirt: Dark gray short or long sleeve (OSG lists long sleeve, we have adapted to short-sleeve for the climate) Safari/Bush-style shirt with two front pockets (flap w/ buttons) and optional shoulder epaulets. We recommend Propper Brand Tactical Short Sleeve shirt in gray.
- Pants: Blue, khaki, olive, or gray in color and of a comfortable outdoor/cargo style.
- Belt: Brown leather or webbing belt.
- Necker: 36″ square neckerchief of the group’s colors, worn with a ring or slide (“woggle”) at the throat.
- Shoes: Closed-toe shoes are recommended for all scout activities.
For badge placement, please reference the OSG Quick Uniform Reference .
More Info about the Pathfinder Program
The newly released Pathfinder Handbook is available here. We also have printed copies available for purchase, reach out to GSM Mark for details.
- There are additional leader resources available on the Guides4Guides pathfinder resource page.
See more at: https://outdoorserviceguides.org/program/pathfinder/